August/September 🇬🇧 ✈️

I had a busy month in August, sadly flying to the UK unexpectedly for the funeral of my birth mum, who passed away suddenly in Newcastle. I had been planning to visit her during the month of October knowing she was unwell, and was gutted that I never got there in time to see her. I did get to see my two half-brothers, Simon and Nick and their families, as well as my two cousins, Dorothy and Gillian, so it was such a sad occasion, it was lovely getting the chance to catch up with my Newcastle family again.

I also traveled to London to see my brother Mike and partner Wendy, Manchester to see my long-time friend Carolyn, and, of course, I spent time in Carlisle at Abbey Court Guest House with David, Kelly, Chloe, Emilia, Caleb and Ella. It’s always good to see bestie Deborah and cousin Alan and Fiona too, despite the short time I was in Carlisle. To those I never got to see — I'm so sorry, but hope to catch up next time!

Changing the subject, before my travels, I had previously been nominated for a book award at the Australian Authors Book Launch & Expo (ABLE) in the general fiction category, and whilst in the UK, I had the added stress of a Zoom online interview with two of the ABLE judges, which accounted for 30% of the overall vote.

I’m still in shock to learn that I’ve actually made it to the finals and that I’m off to Melbourne in October for the Golden Book Awards Gala & Awards Night. It’s also so nice that it’s an award night in Australia this time and not overseas! 🥳

I have absolutely no chance of winning against so many other talented authors, but these gala nights are extravagant and opulent affairs, so the experience itself is worth attending on so many levels, plus I get to wear a nice dress! I’m sure it will be a wonderful and entertaining evening, and I look forward to sharing how it all unfolds in my next news! 🫶

Post Views : 15