Hope Gibbs's Blog

Hydrangea's delicate balance between resilience and fragility is truly fascinating.

Today marks two years since Where the Grass Grows Blue made its debut—my little “book birthday,” if you will.

My commitment to the philosophy of saying yes has been reignited!

Hello and Happy New Year! I apologize for the long gap since my last post. The past few months have been a whirlwind filled with holidays, traveling to Mexico, making some new ocean friends (more on that in a future post), and unfortunately, battling the flu, which sidelined me for a few weeks. Trust me, get the shot, y’all! But now I'm back and committed to being more consistent with my blogging. New Year, new me!

I’m getting ready to hit the road again so to speak—on my way to Sea Island, Georgia. It’s a place that holds a special place in my heart. Nestled along the Atlantic coast, Sea Island has been a go-to spot for our family for over a decade. It’s where my children have built sandcastles on the beach, enjoyed rounds of golf, spent hours playing pickleball, and winning bingo pots, never complaining that coats and dresses were required in the ballroom.

 

Sea Island also inspired me as a writer, serving as the perfect backdrop for my creative pursuits. I wrote several chapters of Where the Grass Grows Blue there, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the waves and the warm sun. This spot was also where I first held my book in my hands, a moment that I’ll never forget.

This trip, however, will be a little different. It marks my first visit since the passing of former President Jimmy Carter. Each time I go to Sea Island, whether accompanied by family or friends, I uphold a cherished tradition—taking a moment to visit the Jimmy Carter Oak. This majestic tree stands alongside others planted by dignitaries and former presidents who have visited this beautiful locale throughout the years. The tradition began with President Calvin Coolidge in 1928 and has since included notable figures such as Queen Juliana of the Netherlands, President Dwight Eisenhower, and President Bill Clinton. The most recent addition to this legacy was in June 2004, when President George W. Bush and Prime Minister Tony Blair participated in this enduring tribute.

I love this row of trees, but the Carter Oak holds a special place in my heart, as President Carter is one of my lifelong heroes. My admiration for him began with a simple act of kindness—his ability to make a young child feel important while he carried the weight of the world on his shoulders.

In 1981, I met him. This memorable encounter happened when my brother, Todd, was named the National Poster Child for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. This opportunity allowed our entire family to travel to Washington, D.C., to advocate for funding for this genetic disease, which, at that time, had a life expectancy of just around thirteen years. Our trip included meetings with several members of Congress, the head of the FBI, and even a tour of the Pentagon with the Secretary of Defense. We also had lunch at a place called Watergate—I had no idea why everyone was so excited about dining there, but remember, I was only nine! This trip also marked the first time anyone in my immediate family had flown on an airplane, making it an unforgettable experience all around.

But the pinnacle of the trip—and one of the most unforgettable moments of my life—was meeting President Carter in the Oval Office. I remember stepping into that space and realizing—even as a third grader—that this was no ordinary day. When President Carter walked in, he greeted us all by name with genuine warmth and compassion, I was truly moved. He made us feel valued, and witnessing someone who held the highest office in the land be so approachable was truly inspiring. A few weeks later, our home in Kentucky received a large envelope filled with photographs from our meeting—each one thoughtfully personalized by President Carter. Those images are treasures, capturing a moment of kindness that resonates with me to this day.

After that, my eagerness to learn everything I could about him grew immensely. In an era before Google, when encyclopedias were our go-to source of information, I stumbled upon a remarkable connection: we share the same birthday—October 1st. Wow! The realization that I, a young girl from Holland, Kentucky, had the same birthday as our president filled me with a sense of pride. It made me feel special.

After President Carter left office, my admiration for him continued to grow. Rather than quietly retiring or making speeches for profit, he chose to leverage his platform to champion causes that truly mattered, particularly in the areas of human rights, Habitat for Humanity, and public health. Did you know about his pivotal role in eradicating Guinea worm disease? It’s just one example of his unwavering commitment to aiding the less fortunate, which only deepened my admiration for him.

After his passing in December, I found myself listening to pundits and historians discussing his legacy—topics I was already familiar with. It was a bittersweet experience, both comforting and poignant. However, my perspective shifted when I stumbled across a documentary that revealed another facet of him. Something I had never read or heard about…his profound connection to music.

The enlightening documentary, Jimmy Carter: Rock & Roll President (2020), focused on an intriguing aspect of his life, showcasing his deep love for music and its significance throughout his campaign and presidency. I was unaware of this side of him. I had no idea that he and his wife, Rosalynn, hosted multiple concerts at the White House, inviting a diverse range of artists to share their talents and celebrate the cultural landscape of the time, further underscoring the importance of music in his life and presidency. But the highlight of the film for me was the connection between Bob Dylan and Jimmy Carter, which illustrated a unique bond between the political and musical realms. Their meeting in 1976 symbolized a powerful partnership, with Dylan's music resonating with themes of social justice and change—echoing Carter's unwavering commitment to those same ideals.

As I've shared in previous posts, Bob Dylan has had a HUGE influence on me as well. His song “Tangled Up in Blue” provided the hook I was looking for while writing my book. I even used it as my title when querying publishers. Although I later changed it after discussions with my audiobook publisher, that song inspired me so much and changed my life. Yet, another connection I shared with President Carter, the power of a song.

As I make my way to the Jimmy Carter Oak on this trip, I will reflect on how his legacy continues to inspire countless individuals, myself included. I might even hum a Dylan tune while I’m at it.

As always, I’ve included a recipe from my book, Where the Grass Grows Blue. Enjoy!

Kentucky Green Beans

Ingredients:

3 strips of bacon

4 cans Allens Italian Cut Green Beans

2 tablespoons minced onions

Salt and pepper to taste

A sprinkle of white sugar

Instructions:

In a large pot, fry the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Leave the bacon and grease in the pot.

Add the minced onions to the pot and sauté until they are soft.

Pour in the 4 cans of green beans (including their liquid) and stir to combine.

Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of white sugar. Stir well.

Bring the mixture to a slow simmer over low heat. Let it cook uncovered, stirring occasionally. Add additional liquid if necessary to keep it from drying out.

Serve warm and enjoy!

Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste!

Until next time…

Jimmy Carter Movie

Sea Island: Planting of the Oaks

Hello there! I know it’s been a while since my last post—life has a funny way of hijacking my blogging time. But don’t worry, I’ve been busy with some pretty exciting things! Between diving into book two (and yes, already plotting book three—yay!) and embracing every new opportunity that comes my way, it’s been a whirlwind of creativity and adventure.

Last spring, I wrote a blog about Embracing the Power of Yes. This summer, I continued that journey, doing my best to live by that mantra. So, here’s a little glimpse into how I’ve been embracing the power of yes during these past few months—filled with adventures, new beginnings, and unforgettable experiences.

Hawks at Sea Island: Embracing the Power of Nature

One of the most memorable moments of my summer was a Hawk Walk with two incredible birds, Sue and Irma, at Sea Island. As someone who has always loved birds, this experience truly took the cake. Walking alongside these majestic hawks, watching them soar, was a powerful reminder of the beauty and grace of nature. There was something almost meditative about the way they moved, a silent communication between bird and handler that left me in awe. It was an experience that will stay with me for a long time, reinforcing my commitment to saying yes to the magic of the natural world.

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A Pickleball Tournament with My Daughter

In June, I had the chance to participate in a pickleball tournament with my daughter. The idea of competing alongside her, sharing in the excitement and camaraderie, was too good to pass up. We strategized, we encouraged each other, and most importantly, had fun. The icing on the cake? We brought home a bronze! It was a moment of pure joy and a reminder that saying yes to challenges, especially with loved ones, can create memories that last a lifetime.

Book Adventures: From 30A to Atlanta

This summer also took me to the beautiful beaches of Florida’s 30A and the bustling streets of Atlanta for bookstore events. Visiting Sundog Books and other charming indie bookstores was a dream come true, a chance to connect with readers and fellow book lovers. These events were more than just book signings; they were celebrations of storytelling, community, and the power of words. Each yes to these opportunities reinforced my passion for writing and the joy of sharing my stories with others. I also had the wonderful opportunity to speak at several library events and book clubs as well.

New Tennis Teams, New Friendships

Back home, my journey of embracing new challenges continued as I joined not one, but two new tennis teams (bringing my total to a whopping seven!). Tennis has always been a passion of mine, but stepping onto the court with fresh faces and competing against new opponents brought a renewed sense of excitement and energy. What started as a pursuit of athletic challenge quickly evolved into something much more meaningful—these teams became tight-knit communities, rich with new friendships and shared experiences that extend far beyond the baseline.

Portugal: Discovering Padel and Rediscovering Myself

What started as a last-minute trip to Portugal—complicated by an airline mix-up that left me without luggage in Boston—quickly transformed into an unexpected adventure that I’ll never forget. Armed with only my carry-on, I fully embraced the spontaneity of the moment. I savored espressos in Lisbon, zipped through the city in a Tuk-Tuk, and stumbled upon a newfound passion for Padel—a thrilling mix of tennis, squash, and something uniquely its own that completely captured my heart. The surprises didn’t stop there. I indulged in the best scallops of my life, competed in a golf tournament where my team emerged victorious (despite my modest contributions), and even met an Olympian fresh from Paris, who generously let me wear his silver medal. Each day was a new adventure, filled with excitement, stories, and a renewed sense of wonder—all because I chose to say yes to the unexpected, to the adventure that awaited just around the corner. Or in this case, across the Atlantic.

Spontaneity in the Kitchen and On the Road

As if the summer hadn’t already been full enough, I found myself embracing spontaneity in the simplest, yet most meaningful of ways last weekend—by making my two college kids their favorite meals. On a whim, I packed a cooler full of homemade goodness and hit the road for a spontaneous trip to Knoxville and Athens. There's something incredibly special about cooking for those you love, especially when it’s a dish steeped in memories and comfort. In our house, homemade pico and their Nana's special sauce—loaded with meatballs, Italian sausage, and pork chops—are treasured favorites. Whipping them up last minute brought smiles all around, making the impromptu road trip all the more worthwhile.

The Power of Yes Continues…

As I look back on this summer, I’m filled with gratitude for the experiences I’ve had and the lessons I’ve learned. Saying yes has continued to open doors, introduce me to new passions, and strengthen my relationships. It’s a journey I plan to continue as the seasons change, knowing that each yes brings with it the potential for growth, joy, and unexpected adventure.

So here’s to the power of yes. 

As always, I’m including a recipe from my novel, Where the Grass Grows Blue…

Squash Casserole (my favorite).

Ingredients:

• 4 cups sliced yellow squash

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2  eggs

• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

• 1 cup milk

• 2 tablespoons butter

• ½ teaspoon

• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers

 

Directions:

• Preheat oven to 350º F.

• Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a medium skillet and sauté squash and onions.

• In a large bowl, add eggs and lightly whisk. Add cheese and milk and whisk. 

• Add squash and onions and stir well.

• Spray a casserole dish with cooking spray and pour the squash casserole mixture into the baking dish.

• Top with crushed Ritz crackers (that’s been soaked in butter) and bake for 45 minutes.

Three Things I’m Obsessed with in August

1.     The Racket: I’m totally addicted to tennis, pickleball, and my latest crush, Padel. Or wait—could “The Racket” be the title of book three that’s in the works? Stay tuned for more on that!

2.     Kris Kristofferson: I’ve fallen head over heels (again) for the legendary Kris Kristofferson, one of the greatest songwriters ever. With classics like “Help Me Make It Through the Night” and “For the Good Times” on repeat, my creative juices are flowing. Or maybe these tunes are setting the perfect mood for book four… who knows? The Summer of 1972 in the bluegrass state?

3.     Grape Popsicles: This Tennessee summer has been blazing hot, and nothing cools me down better than a simple grape popsicle. Is it the sweet taste or the nostalgia of childhood summers? Either way, it’s my delicious escape from the scorching sun!

Until next time…

I knew this day was coming—longer than I wanted to admit. If you’ve ever given your whole heart to a special animal, fortunate enough to be their companion, their human, you know this moment is inevitable. But when it arrives, you’re never ready to say goodbye.

 

With a heavy heart, I share the news of Harley Cummiskey’s passing on March 29th. For those who have followed my journey over the past few years, you know Harley wasn't just a dog; he was my steadfast companion, confidant, and writing partner extraordinaire.

 

Harley was no ordinary canine companion; he was a force to be reckoned with. His entrance into my life was akin to a whirlwind, upending my quiet suburban existence with his vibrant personality and an expansive wardrobe that could rival any diva. Amidst juggling the demands of raising five children, managing a home, and supporting my husband through his constant work travel, the last thing I needed was another responsibility—especially a nine-year-old Shih Tzu with a checkered past and a penchant for baring his teeth whenever things didn’t go his way.

Initially, he resented his new home and, most importantly, me. But as time went on, his heart gradually softened, and we cultivated a bond that I will cherish forever. (You can read more about our journey in a blog post I wrote a few years ago).

 

About a year after Harley's arrival, once he stopped snapping at me daily, I took a leap of faith and began writing for the first time in my life. Night after night, while the world and my family slept, Harley and I would sit together, on our chair, him keeping watch over me as I poured my heart onto the pages. Before I knew it, we had written a 120,000-word manuscript, which later became my novel Where the Grass Grows Blue—together.

 

Harley's impact extended far beyond our cozy living room. He wove our family together, bringing laughter, warmth, and countless cherished memories. From his love of fashionable attire to his insistence on being treated with the utmost sophistication, Harley was more than just a dog; he was a beloved family member.

The past three weeks have been an emotional roller coaster. The house isn’t the same without him. It’s the simple moments I miss most—the gentle weight of his head on my shoulder each morning, his snores, and his unmistakable breath filling the air. I miss his insistence on only eating from pristine white paper towels (no patterns). I miss our weekend naps on the couch, his warm body nestled against mine as we drifted off to sleep. I miss reading with him on my chest sitting on a beach chair at sunset. Plain and simple, I miss being his person.

As I bid farewell to my beloved boy, my heart brims with an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the profound love, laughter, and transformation he infused into my life. Through him, I learned the beauty of resilience and the joy of nurturing a relationship that blossoms slowly, yet blossoms magnificently.

 

I leave you with the words I sang to him every day, the song that finally bonded us. 

 

“We’re going on an adventure; we’re heading on a trip... We’re going on an adventure, and we don’t know what’s in store. We’re going on an adventure, and we’re heading out the door.”

As a seasoned mother of five, spanning over twenty-six years, the word "NO" has practically been etched into my vocabulary. We mothers are the gatekeepers, the rule enforcers, and the ones who ensure bedtime routines are adhered to and schedules are kept in check. Yet, as I find myself transitioning into the realm of an empty nester and a blossoming novelist well into my fifties, I've embarked on a thrilling journey of saying "YES" to every opportunity that knocks at my door. This shift has not only transformed my mindset but also revitalized my perspective on life itself.

For decades, my life was governed by structure and duty, leaving little room for spontaneity or indulgence.

"Chocolate cake for dinner?" NO! You need your vegetables to thrive and flourish.

"Can we sleep on the roof?" NO! You'll plummet to your demise! (Yes, it's a true story with my four adventurous boys.)

"A vacation in Costa Rica?" NO! The land of venomous snakes is no place for us! (Another true story: I regrettably passed on that adventure.)

Admittedly, I might not have been the epitome of a fun mom with my brood. However, with the release of my debut novel, Where the Grass Grows Blue, I've resolved to loosen the reins and embrace the uncharted waters of life. It's time for this old dog to learn some new tricks.

The transition from "NO" to "YES" has been nothing short of liberating and exhilarating. Last fall, on less than twelve hours notice, I found myself agreeing to appear on a morning show, setting off a whirlwind. A journey to a book fair in Louisville, followed by numerous television appearances in Nashville, speaking engagements, and features in various magazines and newspapers. And each time I was asked to share my passion for storytelling, whether at a retirement community or a book club gathering, all because I said “YES!”

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One of the most cherished “YES” moments occurred right in my hometown of Scottsville, Kentucky. I was honored to speak at the Allen County Historical Museum and Genealogical Society, reconnecting with familiar faces who had shaped me into the person I am today: educators, church leaders, and pillars of our community. It was a poignant reminder of the journey that led me to this unexpected role as an author, a title that still feels surreal. All because I said that simple word….”YES!”

As I navigate this exhilarating new chapter of my life, embracing "YES" isn't merely about seizing opportunities; it's about wholeheartedly embracing the unknown. I’m starting to love venturing beyond the confines of my comfort zone.

To all the mothers out there who've spent, or are spending, those years entrenched in the world of "NO," whether it's enforcing bedtime routines or resisting indulgent whims, I implore you to embrace the power of "YES." Though it may feel unfamiliar initially, trust me, it’s an adventure worth every step.

What have I learned this year? It's never too late to embark on new adventures. In the immortal words of Nike, "Just Do It." Even if it’s just a baby step, it can change your life forever. You’ll never know unless you try.

As always, here's a recipe from my book, Where the Grass Grows Blue. This one's from Chapter 12: "Amazing Gracie"—the Willow Creek Baptist Church potluck scene. IYKYK. Enjoy!

Leeta Ray’s Potato Salad

• 8 large potatoes, cut into chunks

• 1 medium white onion, diced

• 1 green pepper, diced

• 4 hard-boiled eggs, diced

• 1 cup Miracle Whip

• 1 tablespoon milk

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 3 tablespoons of yellow mustard

• Salt and Pepper to taste

• Paprika for dusting

DIRECTIONS

1 Boil potatoes until tender, then set aside to cool.

2 Mix the other ingredients in a bowl.

3 Gently stir in the potatoes, sprinkle with paprika, and chill.

Three Things I’m Obsessed With in March:

Curb Your Enthusiasm: I was introduced to this gem during my recovery from knee surgery, and I've been hooked ever since. Farewell to the last season.

Mama D’s: A new culinary oasis is just a mile from my doorstep! Southern delights, live tunes, karaoke, and trivia – what more could a gal ask for?

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My daughter’s Goodreads account: Bursting with pride as she falls in love with books and dives into the literary world. Momma couldn't be happier.

Until next time….

Hello, friends! I've got some exciting news to share. It's a journey down memory lane that's making my heart race. Get ready because I'm heading back home—to Talk of the Town. I will be a guest this Friday, February 23rd, at 11:00 a.m. CST!

Let me take you back to the summer of ’92, my senior year at Western Kentucky University. I was a 20-year-old with big dreams who landed an internship at WTVF’s Talk of the Town, the number one local daytime show in Nashville. Watching and learning from Harry Chapman, Debbie Allen, Meryll Rose, Henri Giles, and Tuwanda Coleman was an experience of a lifetime.! My internship was a crash course in the behind-the-scenes magic of television. I spent days typing recipes, answering the phone, working on giveaways, and writing scripts. Learning how to edit stories was both thrilling and challenging, and I became the go-to person for driving tapes back and forth to Bowling Green—in an official Channel 5 car, no less.

One standout memory? A day with Harry Chapman, the entertainment reporter and one of the stars of the show, who knew I was a massive Vince Gill fan (who isn't, right?). Picture this: "Let's go, Hope," he said, and suddenly I found myself in an exclusive interview with the country icon. Pinch me, right? Harry even took a picture with me standing next to my musical icon—a moment etched in my memory forever.

I hope you can tune in at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 23rd, on WTVF-News Channel 5, or watch the segment on their website.

As always, I’m including a recipe at the end of my blog, but this particular one doesn't come from my book; instead, it dates back to my time at Talk of the Town and has something to do with my unexpected television debut.

 

One of our hosts, Debbie Allen, did a segment on her famous Snickerdoodle cookies. With a fully equipped kitchen on set, I was asked to assist during the break by scooping the cookie dough onto a baking sheet for later enjoyment. No big deal since the next segment would be in a different location. As we returned from the commercial break, I was surprised to see the cameraman focusing on me, while the hosts discussed my impromptu cookie preparations. The realization that I was on live television struck me, and all I could feel was the warmth of embarrassment in my cheeks.

Snickerdoodles

1 ½ cups sugar ½ cup butter, softened ½ cup shortening 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons cream of tartar 1 teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt

Coating:

2 TBS. sugar 2 TBS. cinnamon Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Mix sugar, butter, shortening, eggs, and vanilla in a bowl until creamy. Mix flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt together in a separate bowl. Gradually mix dry ingredients mixture into the wet just until combined. Shape dough into small balls. Make cinnamon-sugar: Combine sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl Place dough balls in cinnamon-sugar and roll or shake until coated. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake 8 to 10 minutes, switching racks halfway through.

Hey y’all!

Wow, it's been a minute. I have missed connecting with you. Apologies for the length of time since my last blog post, but the end of 2023 was a little crazy—book festivals, podcasts, TV and radio appearances, book clubs, and even being featured on a billboard in Times Square in New York City. I promise to get back to regularly sharing stories, updates, and, of course, recipes with you soon. In the meantime, I've got some exciting news that’s happening next week.

Local On 2–WKRN Nashville

 

I will be a guest on Local On 2, a lifestyle show highlighting events, businesses, and inspirational people in and around Music City, Middle Tennessee, and Southern Kentucky! You can catch my segment on Monday, February 5th, at 2:00 p.m. CST, where I will discuss Where the Grass Grows Blue and delve into the journey of becoming a debut novelist after the age of fifty with hosts Larissa Wohl and Laura Schweizer.

 

I hope you can tune in! If you can’t, check out their website for the replay.

Galentine’s Book Signing—You’re Invited

 

Save the date for a special Galentine’s Day-themed book signing event at You’re Invited in Belle Meade on Wednesday, February 7th. Join me for an afternoon filled with sweet treats and sips. If you're looking for the perfect Galentine’s Day gift or just want to say hi, swing by to pick up a signed copy (or two) of Where the Grass Grows Blue.

 

 Date: Wednesday, February 7th

 Time: 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm

 Location: You’re Invited at 5133 Harding Pike, Nashville, TN 37205

I cannot thank Anna Peebles and the incredible staff at You’re Invited enough. They've been steadfast supporters of my book since day one, and I'm grateful for their enthusiasm and warmth. This is the most adorable store, one of my favorites. Check them out here.

Even though this is a short blog, I will end it with my customary Three Things I’m Obsessed With and a recipe that, while not found in my book, is a Kentucky family favorite.

Three Things I’m Obsessed With In February:

Capote’s Women: A True Story of Love, Betrayal, and a Swan Song for an Era by Laurence Leamer. I read this book in one day. I couldn’t get enough, and better yet, it’s a new FX series starring Naomi Watts, Diane Lane, Calista Flockhart, Demi Moore, and Tom Hollander. Get out the popcorn!

Pickleball. I know I’ve written about this before, but I’m really starting to play. A LOT. Over the holidays, I was one lucky mom to get the chance to hit the courts with my children and their friends multiple times. Don’t ask me who won. I’ll never tell but it begins with the letter H.

Baby Bear Soup. Last month, we finally experienced a significant snowfall here in Nashville—nearly nine inches—that shut down the entire city. I was ecstatic that a sizable contingent of my children and their friends were "stuck" at my house for a few days, meaning I could prepare multiple feasts for them. One of my favorite recipes to feed a crowd is my Granny Gibbs' Baby Bear Soup. It's the ideal winter supper and tastes great, even better the next day. It's a cute name too, though oddly enough, I have no idea why she called it that. It's something I've been making for years. It’s a Cummiskey-Turner-Gibbs favorite.

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Baby Bear Soup

1-2 package(s) of cubed stew meat

1 onion, diced

1 bottle of tomato juice (Campbell’s)

1 tsp. garlic powder

2 cans of Veg-All, drained

1 can of peas, drained

1 can of carrots, drained

1 can of lima beans, drained

1 can of corn, drained

1 large potato, diced

½ can tomato sauce

1 bay leaf

1 tsp. dried basil

1 tsp. dried oregano

½ tsp. white sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

 

Sauté the meat, onion and garlic powder in a large soup pot in olive oil until the onions become translucent. Then fill the pot with warm water and boil until the meat is cooked through (usually 10-15 minutes). Drain ½ the water and add the tomato juice, followed by the remaining ingredients. Bring it to a boil, then turn it down to a simmer. Let it cook for 1–2 hours until the potatoes are tender. Serve with cornbread or grilled cheese sandwiches. *It’s better the next day.

What are you loving this month? A recipe? TV show? Book? Share below in the comments!

 

Until next time…

August has always been a time of both reflection and anticipation, marking the transition from the carefree days of summer to the cozy embrace of autumn, my favorite season of all. As a mother of five, this month means one thing in our house: back-to-school shopping. It used to be finding the perfect backpacks and a trip to Lonnie Young for just the right pair of shoes, but now it’s a flurry of Amazon packages piling up on my front porch for college supplies and apartment decor. Boy, can my daughter decorate a room electronically without ever leaving the house?!

Though I’ve been an "empty nester" for a year now, having my children back this summer has made it even harder to say goodbye to them as they travel back to their campuses. It never gets easier. The last week they were home was especially difficult, knowing it would be months before I would see them again. To lift my spirits, I do what I do best—cook! To celebrate our last summer meal together, I spent an entire afternoon in my kitchen preparing their favorite meal…taco night with all the fixins’ (as we say in the south). Ground beef, shredded chicken, homemade pico, black beans, two types of rice, and quesadillas filled my kitchen island. What a great mom, right? I really thought I was the cool parent by giving them an unforgettable night, but think again! My husband had other plans that day and one-upped me by going SKY DIVING with one of our sons. Yep, they jumped out of a plane. It looks like I need a bigger playbook next summer if I want to compete with him.

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But my month wasn’t only about being consumed as a mother, I was also busy promoting my debut novel, Where the Grass Grows Blue, which had its own eventful August by making Red Adept’s Bestseller’s list for the fourth consecutive month. I can’t thank you enough for your belief in this story, its characters, and the town of Camden. But that’s not all! Where the Grass Grows Blue didn’t just make this list; it rose to new heights by becoming the bestselling book for the month of July. Your reviews, your recommendations, your conversations—they all played a significant role in getting this book here. Thank you.

August was also a big travel month for me, both professionally and personally. From Aruba to Kentucky, I covered some ground. My first trip was up I-65, heading for Bowling Green for my first in-person book signing event for Where the Grass Grows Blue at Barnes and Noble. What a wonderful afternoon it was—connecting with readers, seeing old friends, and reminiscing with relatives. I love Bowling Green, which isn’t just a place to me; it played an important role in my life’s story. In my childhood, it was the "big" city, where every street corner held the promise of adventure, and later it was my home for four years while I pursued higher education at Western Kentucky University. Raferty’s, Murray's, and the Greenwood Mall—those were some happy times. But that wasn’t my only trip "home.” A week later, I returned for an in-person book club.

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Diving into the world of book clubs this month has been an absolute delight, with not one but three in-person events. Bowling Green, Brentwood, and Belle Meade, the experience has been nothing short of thrilling. The enthusiasm, thought-provoking questions, and attention to detail left me utterly speechless. If you would like to discuss Where the Grass Grows Blue for your book club and would like me to attend either in person or virtually through Zoom or Streamyard, ,visit my website and fill out this form. BTW, I love to bring goodies and swag inspired by my book.

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I capped off my August travel adventures by heading south, and do I mean south, to Aruba for a trip celebrating a dear friend’s birthday. The island’s pristine white-sand beaches were nothing short of mesmerizing, and the food was divine. One afternoon, we embarked on a captivating catamaran trip, where the sun's descent into the horizon was a breathtaking spectacle. So much so, that I jumped into the water, which is a rare event because I’m not a big swimmer. Plus, I avoid boats at all costs. However, the beauty of Mother Nature took over, and I was swept away in the moment.

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More August Highlights...

• I added a new feature on my Instagram page, introducing my Weekend Grateful graphics. According to an NPR article, making a gratitude list enriches your emotional well-being and can have incredible effects on physical health, by potentially reducing the risk of heart disease and depression. Do you make lists too?

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• My interview with Annie Cathryn, the author of "The Friendship Breakup," for Bookish Road Trip's “Author Take the Wheel.” Annie took us on a journey through the pages of her thought-provoking book, delving into the complexities of friendship dynamics and the emotional rollercoaster of breaking up with a friend. If you haven't yet embarked on the literary adventure that is Bookish Road Trip, don't miss out! ,Click here to join this exciting community.

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• I was asked to do a "Mall Talk" for the Mall at Green Hills. What an honor and thrill to film this right here in my adopted hometown!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_Ob1CbRRIM

To wrap up this post, I’m continuing my feature of sharing a recipe for a food I write about in Where the Grass Grows Blue. Recipe three is from Chapter 12—"Amazing Gracie". Y’all, this “salad” is one of my all-time favorites. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

Frozen Strawberry Fluff Salad

¾ cup of sugar

8oz. cream cheese, softened

9oz. frozen sliced strawberries, thawed

20oz. can crushed pineapple, drained

10oz. Cool Whip

1 sliced banana, optional

In a large bowl, blend together the sugar and cream cheese. Add the strawberries, pineapple, banana slices, then fold in the cool whip. Freeze in a 9 x 13 pan or casserole dish.

Three things I’m Obsessed With in August:

1. Tyler Childers. If you have not listened to his music, you are missing out. I’m a huge fan, and this month I fell in love with two of his songs: his latest single, In Your Love, and his remake of Help Me Make it Through the Night. He’s a genius, and he’s a fellow Kentuckian.

2. My "Grand" Dawg…Dusky. She’s the most amazing dog on Earth, second only to my writing partner, Harley. I was able to "babysit" one weekend, and I was in heaven.

3. Culaccino’s. I discovered this amazing Italian restaurant in downtown Franklin, Tennessee, only five miles from my house, by accident. I love everything about this place. Wow!

Until next time…