I’ve mentioned before that I’m a cold weather fan – I love warm sweaters and fuzzy socks, soft afghans, hot tea and a roaring fire. Arkansas summers are brutal when the temperature soars over a hundred degrees, but I must admit springtime in Arkansas makes it easier for me to say goodbye to the cooler weather. Azaleas, dogwoods, wisteria and other spring blooms are out in force now, which makes leisurely country drives especially appealing. I took the photo above last week at the Little Red River in north central Arkansas on a pleasant family outing. Local farmer’s markets are open, offering the fresh fruits and veggies I love. I enjoy attending small-town festivals, and I’m looking forward to visiting Toad Suck Daze this weekend in nearby Conway (I’ll post photos next week). Summer means vacation, and this summer all three of our “kids,” our son-in-law — and our new baby grandson! — will be together with us for the first time in two years when our family gathers for a visit to New England. So maybe I don’t mind so much leaving winter behind this year, after all (it doesn’t hurt that we’re having a particularly cool spring, letting me hang on to the fuzzy socks and the afghan a bit longer than usual).
Today also marks the release date for my newest Harlequin Special Edition, THE TEXAN’S SURPRISE BABY. Click the home tab above for story details. The book is available in stores and in e-format for all e-book readers. Whatever your medium, I hope you enjoy spending time with the Walker and Bell families as much as I did!
Visit me on my Facebook page (link at right) and tell me what you’re looking forward to this summer. From this cool, cloudy spring morning in Arkansas — happy May Day, y’all!
Gina Wilkins 