Scorching!

Earlier in the year, it seemed to rain every day and our garden was a soggy mess of drowned plants. My kale washed away completely and the Swiss chard looked pathetic. But we’ve traded the rain for scorching heat and dry weather. So now the garden is baking in the sun, the ground is cracking, and the mosquitoes are out in droves.

And with summer fully here, let’s think about all the outdoor activities. There are the barbecues, the summer soft ball games, golfing, swimming, hikes in nature.

We all love doing things in the summer without the cold and rain or snow of winter. But there are dangers here, too.

Make sure you stay hydrated when you’re outdoors. It’s easy to get busy and forget to drink. But over heating is a dangerous thing. I find it most difficult when swimming. Since you’re already wet, you don’t notice that you’re also sweating, making it a tricky combo.

Also, sunscreen is a thing. I know most of us know this, but a little reminder won’t hurt.

If you’re going out into nature, please cover up. I see people all the time walking around through the woods or meadows, up mountain trails, in shorts and sandals. Between the bugs, the rough terrain, and brush and brambles, a lightweight over shirt and lightweight pants would keep you protected. And don’t forget some decent shoes.

As for me, I’m editing another book right now, after releasing my latest shifter romance in June. If you’re a fan of paranormal romance and fantasy, check it out! Look for Old Flame at Amazon.

Better yet, go on over to my author blogs and see what’s happening in my writing world!

You can find me here, at MellieMiller.com or my other pen name, SultonnaNadine.com

Enjoy your summer, stay safe, and I’ll meet you again later!

And as always,

Stay safe, be healthy...

but most of all, be kind.

Last Week in August?

Already?

Where has the time gone? It seems summer just began and now we’re heading into September next week. Monday is Labor Day. Can you believe it?

Goodness me…

So what has been happening in your world this summer?

For me, my husband had shoulder surgery, so we spent a lot of time back and forth to Physical Therapy earlier. Since then, we’ve been trying to catch up on things around the house–yard work, home repairs, replacing appliances… You know the way it goes.

As far as my writing–you did know I’m an author, didn’t you?–I published one book as Sultonna Nadine earlier in the year. If you like a bit of magic and humor, go check out Whiskey Jug Genie.

I’m currently working on final edits for another book in my Gambler’s Folly series. So watch for Old Flame. It’s a mainstream sensual shifter story, with a bit of second chance in the mix, as well as a fantasy world somewhere in the galaxy.

I’m hoping to get back to this blog a bit more, with summer coming to a close and things not quite as busy.

In the meantime, remember to…

Approach each day with gratitude and wait for the magic to begin.

Summertime in Georgia

And so far, it hasn’t been a particularly relaxing summer for us here. We’ve had physical therapy appointments, deaths in our pet family, and a sick puppy. To go along with that, our daughter was in an accident while driving for work and is looking at much PT and probably back surgery.

However, school is out for the summer, July is here, and its Barbecue time! Can you smell the burgers and hot dogs on the grill? And have you tried grilled veggies? We found some handy colander-looking grilling pans which work fantastically for us.

What veggies do I grill?

Cherry or grape tomatoes, with broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini squash chunks, bell peppers, and some inch long cuts of green onions. Splash a little barbecue sauce on them and keep them tossed until they’re done to your liking.

Looking for snacks for the kids?

Check out the prices at Nuts.com! I buy their mixed nuts all the time. And since I can’t eat chocolate or sugar, I get their unsweetened carob chips! They also have all kinds of trail mixes, seeds and grains, flour of all sorts (including nut flours), not to mention tea and coffee!

Aside from chocolate, I love candles. And I’ve found some new favorites over at Mythologie Candles. Right now they’re having the Christmas in July Sale, which you should check out. I’ve already been there… I love the unique scents they offer. The fact they’re inspired by fantasy helps a bit, too.

Since I write paranormal fantasy romance as well, I love to light one of the candles which suites what I’m writing or reading and settle back for the evening.

In the meantime, enjoy your summer.

Have a safe and wonderful July 4th, for those here in the States.

And remember,

Always look for the beauty around you.