Ma greets the news that I am a soon-to-be-published-novelist with a variety of pigeon noises. I know she’s thrilled, but it’s just not the done thing for her to say anything that would make me or the Kid, too big for our boots. Her mother was the same; as soon as the news broke that I’d passed my eleven plus I got summoned before Nan and Grandad and warned about the perils of becoming a snob. Same again when I was offered a place at university. No lectures about sex, drugs or sausage rolls, just ‘don’t be a snob’.
Thinking about it, it was Dad who usually tackled the tricky stuff, like before my very first date assuring me that if I became pregnant I wouldn’t be turned out the house, but I ought to reflect on how it would ruin my life. Sheesh! Mind you, his tactic worked; for years I got a bit nervous if a boy so much as put his arm round me in case something flew down his sleeve and impregnated me.
Although Dad could deliver some dire warnings, he was always chuffed to bits when any of us had good news; his face would light up and he’d get a tad watery-eyed which always brought a lump to my throat too. My lovely daughters placed a star on one of the Royal Marsden's Christmas trees again, to celebrate his life - but I do miss him.
Whilst Nan would be pleased to know I haven’t outgrown my boots, I have had a really exciting week watching the progress of Turning the Tide. Funnily enough it was seeing the blurb that really thrilled me; I suppose it was the first step along the route of the book having an existence of its own. Next step, jacket design... hmm, I might have to watch my boots that day.
And finally...
We’re gearing up for the relly round; six whistle-stop days of non-stop food, drink and making merry. Whilst it’s lovely to catch up with everyone, it is a bit of a marathon – only with less running. Still, we do get a few days grace before Christmas when the girls and their boyfs arrive – and then we can all start again!
Painting is 'The Tomb of St Basil' by Tom Tomos
Comments
I cant wait to read TTT especially now I've read the blurb, it sounds wonderful.
Enjoy your touring from relative to relative.
Loving that painting.
Stomp around in those boots for a while Chris. They're a perfect fit.
Yep - had the same wise words thrust upon me as you did - pride goes before a fall and all that clap trap.
Just go with the flow and enjoy every minute of it and that goes for Xmas relly dash as well
But you celebrate like mad and we'll be celebrating with you as well.
Incidentally, does your book have a sub-title? EG: 'Turning the Tide' OR The Absorbing Mystery of the Plantagenet Parakeet. As if the first were something on a brown paper wrapper while the second was what was on the book itself.
Oh, and by the way - I won't turn down the watch if you have already bought it. I know it must be hard getting rid of all that literary wealth so I'll do what I can to help!
"if a boy so much as put his arm round me in case something flew down his sleeve and impregnated me." Still chuckling.
Debs, I really like that painting, too - I've been 'saving' it!
LBD, oh yes showing off, another crime! Or being shy; 'Nobody's looking at YOU!'
Lane, I might have a teeny little stomp when no one's looking!
SBS, I can see what you mean now I've had another look. I don't suppose Basil will mind!
Fennie, not too hard actually. JK doesn't have to worry for quite a while! But I'm very grateful that someone likes my writing.
JJ, you'll scar them for life - although they will, I can assure you, get over it!
Pondside, so even when mother's are nurses they still be mothers first! Priceless!!
I am sure your mother is very proud. Love that pic too, one of my favourites.
Your dad's dating advice is the best! :D
FP, thank you very much.
Elizabethm - seems there was a lot of it about, judging from everyone's reactions!
Sally, it's beginning to feel very exciting so yes, upbeat is the word!
Cait, thank you.
CC, I wonder what we'd have done without the chats?!
Liane, so glad it's not just mine!
Have a wonderful Christmas all of you - you have a busy 2010 ahead.
Much love to you and yours
Debbie
xx