Happy Mother’s Day and Summer

Happy Mother’s Day to all the wonderful women in my life.  Your devotion and care are remarkable.

I think we are getting closer to summer. Maybe.  One way I know for sure the summer is on its way is that the summer reads are coming out!  

I read the new Mary Kay Andrews book this week.  Summers at the Saint was a wonderful read about an exclusive vacation spot.  There are mysteries, unusual happenings, snotty people and a murder.  The book is written in MAK’s style with her superb eye for details and exceptional prose.  

A couple of weeks ago I read The Summer We Started Over by Nancy Thayer, another great summer read.  It was located on Nantucket, another exclusive vacation spot.  This book was more about family drama and the road not taken.  I love how Nancy Thayer writes about the gloriousness of the island even in summer when surrounded by summer people.  

I am waiting for the new paperback from Jenny Hale called The Magic of Sea Glass.  A story about being lost after a death and finding a new way forward.  Again it takes place in North Carolina in the summer, with the beach and ocean.

Perhaps that is my definition of a true summer book. The novel is released in spring or early summer. It is set on a beach/island where at least part of the story takes place in the summer. I think the other key element (at least for me), the main female character is finding her way forward or dealing with a crisis that she can solve.  

Speaking of strong female characters, a wonderful person I used to teach with, passed away.  She was a compassionate, interesting teacher who had such a wonderful attitude with everyone.  I hope her family will continue to feel her love in their hearts.  

PS – This week’s picture:  my mom, Marjorie (middle), my grandmother, Helen (left), my great grandmother Lola (right) and me in the center (maybe two ish)