Two Guardian Angels, and One Very Naughty Girl Scout

Well, besides being a very naughty blogger, let's see it's been how long...? I've become our troop's worst girl scout mom. Besides saying no to selling cookies this year, I have succumbed to buying a tray of sushi for tomorrow's cook-an-international-recipe day. It's pathetic, I know. I've come to the conclusion that I'm completely burnt out on motherhood. Plus, I write books. Hopefully that's a good excuse.

Anyway, that brings me to my next topic: guardian angels. (Sorry Vincent, I had to go with Raffael today.) My daughter, Liz, made it to Spain in one piece, but if it weren't for two guardian angels she'd still be stranded at the airport and possibly homeless. The first angel , an older Spanish gentleman, helped Liz out when she was unable to board a bus or take a taxi with her two Texas-sized suitcases. (Everything in Madrid is much, much smaller.) The second Angel, whose name happens to be Angel (think an-hel') helped her find a wonderful flat with a very sweet flatmate. So, all is well.

Oh, some wonderful news! I'm honored to announce that BROTHERS made the Texas Lone Star List!

Preparing for a Meltdown

My daughter, Liz, is leaving for Spain on Tuesday. She's going to live in Madrid and teach English as a foreign language. I'll be driving her to the airport, and saying goodbye. Why, why does this have to be so hard? I mean, she's going to have the time of her life, right? It's just, well, she's my BFF, you know? I love her so much, and I'm going to miss her. I chose Vincent's cafe painting because it reminds me of Liz. I can just picture her sitting there, sipping coffee, enjoying her new life ... missing me, just a little.

The Texas Book Festival was a blast. I sat on two panels with some lovely and talented young adult authors. Panels are great because you don't have to prepare a speech, but they can be a little nerve-wracking. I mean, you never know what question is going to be thrown at you. For example, I was asked, "Motorcycle or Vespa?" To my chagrin, I didn't know what a Vespa was. (Come on people, I live in Round Rock! Ask me about a Hummer or a pick up truck!) Anyway, I was able to save myself with a little self-deprecating humor, and the rest of the evening went pretty well. Now, it's back to reality. Hard work, and a soon-to-be goodbye. :(