One More Detour on the Writing Road

It is the very start of the Memorial Day weekend in Madison, and it is HOT! Lo-mid 80s hot, which takes me by surprise. 70s are more usual, even the rainy 60s. Not today. Things start to cool off tomorrow, lucky for me given the clothes I brought. Pants, jackets.

I'm in the Concourse lobby, awaiting my room. The drive up was uneventful and pleasant--once I cross the border into Cheeselandia, I take Highway 50 to 12/18, aka The Scenic Route, through small towns and rolling farmland. Cloudless blue sky. Lambs and horses and cows and donkeys. iPod plugged in, playing tunes of choice--Blondie, Belle & Sebastian, Social Distortion. An eclectic mix.

Lunch at the Noodle Company. Pad Thai Chicken. Stopped by Shakti and bought a few surprises for the gift basket, along with a few things for me.

The first thing I'm going to do when I get into my room is shower. I mean. Damn.

I was invited to donate something to Brenda Novak's auction to benefit diabetes research this year, and I am excited to be able to participate. I will be donating a Jani basket--all five novels plus a chapbook containing the "Incident" novella.  I will also throw in a couple of goodies that play a part in the stories--some spices, gourmet coffee, and one or two other things. 

It's a great cause, and many writers and agents donate books, trips, critiques, and other eye-popping prizes--I have my eye on a couple of those trips/retreats myself. Bidding starts on May 1. Please drop by if you can.