A summer heatwave
and a heartfelt invite...
Hello, friends!
Yes, it’s been a while, but if you read on I’m sure you will understand the reasons for my absence of late.
Without burdening you with too much detail, the summer has been intense here in Wales, and I’m not just talking about the record-breaking weather.
Firstly, my father’s health and welfare continues to take up much of my time and mental focus. I’m sure those of you who have cared for an elderly parent will understand the feeling. He’s holding his own for now, but it’s tough.
Secondly, and I know we must be crazy for doing this right now, because why oh why would we add to the stress? Anyway, we recently put our house up for sale. This week, we received an offer, which is great. However, those of you who live in the UK will understand how stressful the house buying process is, and for those who don’t suffice it to say that until ‘exchange of contracts’ there is zero security that the sale will successfully complete. It’s common here for exchange of contracts to take place just days before completion/moving day, sometimes it even happens on the same day, which makes forward planning (arranging storage/transportation etc.) extremely tight. Until exchange, not a penny changes hands and the buyer is able to walk away with no financial penalty. So yes, that’s an added stress. Anyway, I promised not to burden you, so enough said. Please wish me luck!
Thirdly, and most importantly, many of you know that my husband is partially sighted. His vision has now deteriorated to the point of him being unable to function on a day to day basis, so surgery is the only option. That, too, is planned for the coming weeks. It’s a risky operation, but if it goes well it will transform his life. I cannot wait for it to be over and hope for a successful outcome with all my heart!
And now for the invite…
This coming Saturday I will be taking part in the annual event organised by TBR Con. I have been invited to speak on the panel called ‘How to Write a Great Standalone’ and will feature alongside several highly regarded writers. I would love you to join us via this link
For those in the UK, the scheduled time is 5-00PM to 6-30PM, or 11-00AM to 12-30PM CST. There is no obligation to stay for the duration, but all guests will be widely appreciated.
That’s all for now, folks!
Hope to see you this coming Saturday.
Yours from Wales,
Catherine McCarthy
Thank you for the update! That is so stressful (though congratulations on selling the house, fingers crossed it all goes smoothly), will be thinking of you, your Dad and Tony, and sending hugs and good wishes that all goes well! 🙏
That's a lot all at once! The house sale alone must be super stressful. Sending good vibes for the surgery.