The Substitute Bride author copies arrived today.

The Monday after Thanksgiving is the day we decorate our church for Christmas. A fun, busy time stringing lights and fluffing artificial trees, garland and poinsettias as we chat and eat. Oh, yes, we enjoy a delightful high caloric lunch that does nothing to help shed those Thanksgiving pounds, but gives us energy to keep going until the job is done. And what a great feeling that is!

When I pulled into the drive this afternoon, I noticed two familiar boxes on the front porch. My author copies of The Substitute Bride had arrived! I couldn't wait to rip into the boxes. One of the most exciting moments for me is holding a new book in my hands. The Substitute Bride releases in February, but I know it won't be long before I'll get e-mails from book club readers who get the book early. My husband took a picture of the moment to share with you.

Life got hectic and I neglected to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving. Hope the day was a great time of fellowship and sharing your blessings with family or friends. We had a lovely day. On Friday our daughters and I fought the crowds at the Mall while my poor husband battled stomach flu. Saturday I took our grandchildren on the annual trek to select a Christmas ornament. Unlike the older grandchildren, our youngest selected a non-moving, non-musical ornament. When he got it home and the other three were showing off the action and sounds of their choices to their parents, he kept asking, "Where's the button? Where's the button?"

With my d/h feeling well again, we're back to routine, whatever that is. And squeezing in time to decorate for Christmas at home. Hoping all is well with you.

Blessing, Janet