Howdy and Happy Thanksgiving Week

Wow! My first real post to the blog. I need to add a disclaimer up front. If you ever visit my website (www.johannariley.com) you'll see a reference to my chainsaw. What does a chainsaw have to do with romance writing? Especially non-romantic suspense? Well, not a whole heck of a lot. However, Chauncy the Chainsaw became my sidekick about two years ago, as an inspirational devise to my crit buddies to keep them motivate to write and not submit before writing was complete. But I grew so fond of Chauncy he just stuck around. And, yes, I am insane and should be committed to a padded room. But I'm sure you've already figured that out. If you haven't... you will shortly.

Anyhooo...

This week is Thanksgiving (as if you couldn't tell by all the poor, defenseless, FROZEN turkeys in the grocery stores). While I was anticipating a quiet day at home with Hubby and the in-laws, we've now added 4 other people. Thankfully the table can accommodate so many. This is my third Thanksgiving where I've been "allowed" to take care of the entire meal. Before this, my mom-in-law would cook. So I enjoying the upgrade to adult.

Holidays are bittersweet for me because I don't have my dad or older brother around anymore, and even after 8 years it just seems strange to not see them sitting at the table or sleeping after lunch. Still I can't complain, because I have a roof over my head, a wonderful family and great friends, and my child is an antisocial, neurotic cat named Susie. I am truly blessed.

So, while I slave away in the kitchen this week, I have a lot to be thankful for, and I can't tell you how much I'm looking forward to a long weekend of non-day job work, and spending quality time with my husband and best friend.

I hope you all have a safe and lovely holiday, and I sincerely look forward to getting to know each and every one of you through the blog.