It feels like I’ve lived nine lives since I last posted here. No, I am not a cat. Nor have I had any real near-death experiences (though I have no doubt that if this had been the case, I’d have some pretty juicy stories to share, haha). The truth is, I’ve been over here quietly plotting along, doing all the things I do to keep the ship afloat, and by ship, I mean my book career and my personal and family life. I’m happy to report that all is well. Like most all of us the Covid years knocked the wind out of me, but let’s not waist anytime talking about Covid, right? Onward! Here’s a quick recap of what I’ve been up to:

Raising Teenage Boys: I could probably just stop there and give no further explanation, because you get it, right? Three words, enough said (and all the laundry and homework help and dirty socks and shenanigans that comes with it). P.S. I love them to pieces and one of them is now almost 6’4″ tall–yup!)

Dipping My Toe Into Hollywood: I specify exactly one two, not two, because I’m just a nerdy author from Seattle and what do I know about La La Land? Well, not that much. But, I’ve had a few pinch-me moments this past year in meetings with big names in the business. Too much more to type, but I’ve learning about Hollywood and it’s been exciting to be on the backend coming up with concepts for TV shows and movies (more to come on that front!).

Writing New Books: Since I last checked in, I’ve written a new novel (my 12th) and signed a new book deal for my 13th, which I’m writing now. Be sure to keep your eyes out for my upcoming release, Insignificant Others, which will be out in April from HarperCollins Morrow! You can find pre-order links here.

Helping People: I almost changed this title after seeing it on the page. I mean, most of you are probably like, ‘what the heck does that mean?’ Well, friends, it turns out that I’m my father’s daughter (my dad being a social worker by profession and a layman therapist to basically anyone he meets … not joking). This has been my year (years?) of service to others, and I’m here for it. Let’s just say, I’ve had a lot of crying people on my living room sofa in the past few years. Fortunately, I’ve been able to make a lot of them smile again. Gratitude to my amazing husband who supports and encourages me in the way I spend my time and how I show love to others. My tombstone will probably say something like this: “She liked talking to people–a lot.”

No Longer Crying Over Spilled Milk: There was a time in my life when I was a prisoner of perfectionism. Like, for real. Well, friends, that time has come to an end. In fact, I’m in my “imperfect” era, and I’ve never felt better. P.S. If you stop by my house, I can confidently say it will be in some degree of chaos and disarray, and I’m perfectly okay with that.

Gardening Like a Lunatic: Nerd alert! I’ve become a next-level gardening nut. Like a certifiable one. I forage. I seed save. I stop and talk to elderly neighbors for hours about their flower gardens (“Ooooh, is that an heirloom hollyhock?” and “Tell me about your compost bin.”). Yeah, it’s that bad. But, I’m happy to report that I have a thriving urban garden here in Seattle (on my roof, no less) and if you can imagine it, I’m probably growing it, and in my view, it’s 100 percent heaven.

Pursuing Some Exciting New Ventures: I’ve always had an entrepreneurial side, and I’ve been flexing those muscles hard lately. I’ll keep you posted on these side hustles as soon as I can, so stay tuned.

That’s about it for now. If you need me, I’ll be here writing, dreaming in my garden, drying peoples’ tears and feeding teenage boys. Pleas send wine.

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