I’m going to end the week on a cheerier note. I’ve got a semi-significant (boo hoo) birthday at the weekend and Mr and Ms B sprung a surprise on me last night. It all happens at 12 noon tomorrow - no idea what but will let you know. Never mind that I am supposed to be working - they made me do it, whatever it is.
Well, after yesterday’s jaunty start to the day, things went rapidly downhill. We found our rabbit, Smudge, very poorly in his run and the upshot was, he had to be put to sleep by the vet. Later we buried him under the holly tree in our garden. Cue, floods of tears from all of us - the vet’s assistant had to give us a box of tissues. Smudge may have been only a rabbit, but he was a much loved pet nonetheless.
We’ve had him about 11 years since my daughter was at primary school. He was a baby rescue rabbit from the RSPCA. Together, me, Mr Bennet, my daughter - but largely my father-in-law - have looked after him. He was not a cuddly rabbit who loved being snuggled but he had a sparky, lively personality. He tended to hold us all in disdain but his favourite activities included eating yoghurt rabbit pips and being let out of his run to race round the garden. He also drew out the contest entries. I’m going to ask my daughter and father in law, Charles, to do that from now on.
Isn’t it horrible when you lose a pet? You get so very attached to them. 
Thanks to the all-seeing Ray Anne, I know that Lisa Jewell has won the Melissa Nathan Award for comedy romance. I missed it while I was away in Greece. Congrats to Lisa and to Christina Jones whose character, Helen, won Best Bitch in Heaven Sent. 
Now back to work - I’m awaiting my edits for ISHBM (but had a lovely note from my ed - whew, what a relief one day I’ll tell you the battle I had with this book) and I’ve a big commercial writing project for the next two weeks.
I’m also planning the launch of Just Say Yes (including the purchase of three bottles of Pimms and two large jugs). Just to avoid any confusion:
On-line launch- Monday 11th August. Here on the blog. All day. Videos, recipes, pics, men - plus signed copies of JSY and chocolate sea shells to be won.
In the flesh - Thursday 14th August. Waterstones, Stafford. 6.30-8.30pm. RSVPs appreciated. Pimms, nibbles and nice people in attendance.
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Just Say Yes is in my hands… postie just delivered it. Someone asked me if I’m as excited as the first time.
YES YES YES!
Life is manic right now - but in a good way. I’m really excited about talking to my editor about ISHBM, which, though it’s been tough, has meant so much to me in many ways.
While I wait for my edits on this book I’m working on a big copywriting project which I’m very much enjoying. It has involved talking to lots of people in an organisation in London. I love interviewing people and finding out about their jobs and have realised that it’s healthy for me to work in my day job as well as on novels. Working in the Real World is very good for my books, my back and my bank balance!
And of course, I’m busy organising the launch party for Just Say Yes. I hope to see lots of friends, family, C19, RNA and publishing colleagues - plus readers of course. Stafford Waterstones - Thursday August 14th 6.30-8.30. (I have to keep saying it because my news section isn’t working.) There will also be a cyber party, with book giveaways here on Monday 11th - more news soon.
