Dear Sunday Letter friends,
I’ve had a busy-busy week and a very productive one. I can almost taste the launch of my next book, and I’m so excited about it. The book likely won’t be available until this fall, but you know how fast time flies. You will have it in your hands before you can shake a stick at 2022.
I don’t want to get ahead of myself though.
Right now I want to tell you this—if you are interested in my next book, make sure you are subscribed to my email newsletter. I will be gearing up book information soon. And email subscribers will be the first to know everything.
Book Reviews
Last week, I received a new review for Gene, Everywhere. I am so grateful for it!
Just to be clear, I created the visual using the reviewer’s words. (Don’t think you need to create art to write a review!)
Here is a screenshot of the reader’s review on Amazon:
Confused about where to go on Amazon and Goodreads to write a review, just ask me or click HERE.
Yes, periodically I like to urge readers to review the books they read. Reminders are necessary because most readers never get around to doing it. Intentions are good, but everyone is busy and writing a book review can easily be pushed aside. I totally understand.
But here I go, mentioning it again. It’s on my mind because with a new book launching this year, my brain is filled with book-related particulars.
Reviews are important to writers not because we need constant feedback. Reviews help a book become noticed in the sea of books being released every day across the world. Fifty reviews on Amazon means Amazon promotes my book. That’s huge. (No way I could afford to hire a marketing company with the power of Amazon to market my books.)
Just think—if everyone who had purchased my books actually posted reviews, we might be having a different conversation. We might be talking about a soon-to-come Hallmark movie about Gracie Lee. How cool would that be?
Anyway, this is me standing in front of you asking you to write reviews if you haven’t already.
And THANK YOU to those who have already taken the time to share your opinion online and with friends.
Air-Fried Goodness
I told you a few weeks ago how John received a Breville Convection Toaster Oven for his birthday. Well, it’s basically all we use now!
This week I air-fried broccoli using a drizzle of olive oil. The broccoli cooked in half the time of my conventional oven.
Tips I’ve learned on using an air fryer:
- Cut the veggie pieces small and uniform so they cook evenly.
- Dried spices (like garlic powder) will get into the nooks and crannies of the veggies more evenly than fresh spices (like diced garlic). And dried spices won’t burn.
I also made cauliflower soup this week (air-frying the cauliflower before adding it to the soup recipe). Delicious!
Gracie Lee Notecards!
I’ve been thinking about this for a while and finally it’s happening. Soon you’ll be able to send your handwritten letters and thank you notes on Gracie Lee notecards.
Here’s a sneak peek.
Cards will be sold in assorted sets of eight. And there will be two different sets available. In other words—sixteen different designs—all from the Second Edition Illustrated Version of The Accidental Salvation of Gracie Lee.
The art was drawn by my talented husband, John Boerner (with the exception of Nana’s Duck, which was drawn by my Nana, Frances Creecy).
The cards are white although they look yellow in this bad photo I took…
I can’t wait to show you all sixteen designs chosen. More about this project coming soon.
Things Momma Says:
(in response to a commercial during one of the NFL playoff games)
Hands free driving? How lazy are people gonna be?
***
I apologize for such a rambling and scattered Sunday Letter. I suppose that’s how my brain is firing this morning. I did manage to write all these words with two intense faces staring at me…
As we move into February, cheers to a great week. My daughter and son-in-law are coming for a visit next weekend. I’m counting down the days!
Grace Grits and Gardening
Farm. Food. Garden. Life.
Always enjoy your letters. Love the notecards. Enjoy your Sunday.
You too! It’s shaping up to be a beautiful day in the neighborhood.
Always look forward to your Sunday letters. I’m pretty sure I’m already signed up for your newsletter. I feel your excitement!
Yes you have, thank you!
I do love the notecards!!!!
Thank you, Sweetie! I’ve sure enjoyed your trip to PA.
I got a set of notecards this week. BUT I DON’T WANT TO SEND THEM….THEY ARE TOO, TOO CUTE. I’ve got to get another set so I can write all my friends. I love them. Annabelle and Gracie: What cute faces looking back at you. No wonder you are so talented. What inspiration! Really looking forward to the new book. Can’t wait, can’t wait. Two NFL playoff games today. Whippee!! ( I seem to be rambling this morning)
I guess we both are:)) Rambling, that is.
I’m looking forward to reading your new book. There’s no doubt it will be a good read. Also, I love note cards and would like a set when they’re available.
Thanks, friend! I sure miss you.
I miss you, too. One of these days, I may show up in your driveway.
Can’t wait for the new book and I love the note cards!
Yay! Thanks!
Oh yes I surely would love the notecards. Love your Sunday Letter. So excited about your new book !
Love you and your books, stories, writings from a sweet Arkansas girl ! ❤️🤗
Thank you Linda!
Another much appreciated Sunday letter…some weeks I don’t get to read one until later in the week but each letter you write is so true “life” and your sweet mama’s comments are the best! Can’t wait for this next book in the fall…happy almost ..February 🌸🌹
Yes…and your note cards!! Yay..You!!
Thank you for your kind words. Yes, almost February!
Thanks, Lisa!
How you get any work done with those precious faces staring at you is beyond me!
It’s a challenge sometimes! (But a wonderful problem to have.)