In October my husband and I spent a week at a timeshare at Avila Beach. It was the first time in—I don’t know how long—that just Don and I went away together. It seems whenever we take a trip it’s to a family reunion or to see our kids—which is wonderful, but sometimes it is nice to just get away alone with the love of one’s life.

We had a relaxing week and the weather was perfect. The timeshare belonged to someone my husband works with. He couldn’t use it this year, so we rented it from him, and I’m really glad we did.

Mom stayed home with Lady the Aussie and Spooky the Halloween Cat. We recently signed her up for medical alert alarm, but we didn’t want her staying home alone, so we hired a friend to stay with her in the evenings. I am happy to report Mom had a great time while we were gone.

Unfortunately, Mom ran into a bit of trouble a little over a week ago and broke her hip. On November 6th she had surgery and everything went well. I was grateful they put her under with a spinal block instead of general anesthesia, which can really play havoc on an elderly person.

Mom is currently at a rehab center, working to get mobile again so she can come home. It’s located on the other end of town, and I’ve been visiting her daily. She’s been a real trouper, but she so wants to come home, and we want her to. Here at home I have been going through her room and making it walker friendly. I even bought her some new furniture and in a couple hours she will be getting new carpet.

In the middle of all this I have been working on Book 11, The Ghost Who Stayed Home. Its release date is December 16. There are some new things happening with the series, but I can’t tell you yet—although I will soon.

Now I need to get back to work on the book, and get something done before the carpet installers arrive.