Well, you know what they say about Texas weather… stick around for five minutes and it’s sure to change! It certainly changed this week. Last Monday it was 101 degrees down here in Austin, and then on Tuesday, it was a balmy 102 degrees. Finally, today, it dropped way down to 90 degrees, and I had to find a sweater to wear! I love reptiles, so I found a nice turtleneck. (Ouch!) In any case, summer is finally over and fall is in the air. (I think that’s what I smell) Personally, I love the summertime down here in the Lone Star State, but on that subject, I am a definitely a minority. (I think the heat keeps the riff riff off the golf course!)

Our last summer fling was flung in Port Aransas (naked photos attached) and as usual, we had a marvelous week at the Sandpiper Resort. The weather (and the water) were absolutely perfect, and we even found time to sign a few books. I’m happy to report that Port A has fully recovered from the last devastating hurricane, and as far as I could tell, almost all of the great seafood restaurants are back in business.

On a (slightly) sad note, the amazing women who run one of the most pleasant events in Texas (“An Evening With The Authors”) in Lockhart, Texas, were forced to cancel this year’s event due to the continued concerns of Covid. However, as the incredible Ms. Juanita McBride has assured me, the show will go on next year, and the evening gala will be better than ever! By the way, not only are the ladies of Lockhart wonderful, but their “cause” is also great… the event raises some much-needed funds for the Dr, Eugene Clark Library, a true Texas treasure. (and the event also supports many of their community programs!)

Naturally, I hope to see many of my Texas friends next year. (In lovely Lockhart) If this week is any indication, we will have much to celebrate… Why, you ask? Because my new history book, GONE BEFORE GLORY, has just won its first literary award! Oui, my friends, my book won the BRONZE MEDAL (Honorable Mention) at the PARIS BOOK FESTIVAL! I am thrilled and honored to be recognized by our French allies, and appreciate their offer to attend the awards ceremony is Gay Paree. (Even though I’m straight. Mostly.)

Actually, I do have a trip to France on the books (so to speak) but we are not due to arrive in the “City of Light” until next August. Nevertheless, it is tempting to travel abroad, so who knows, maybe I’ll be packing my bags before then. To tell you the truth, I love Europe, but there are so many foreigners there, and some of them are very rude. (i.e., they don’t speak English!)

By the way, in addition to the Paris Book Festival honor, I received my first comprehensive, professional book review, and I was sincerely grateful for all of the nice comments made by the reviewer. (No, I did NOT bribe her!) Although I might have tried if they’d told me her name! For those of you that have absolutely nothing to do later today, please scroll down and see the review. I think you will find it quite interesting and very well-written. (I do wish she would have said something about my hilarious jokes, but alas, that will have to wait.)

Well, mes amies, (my friends) I shall now take my leave of thee until next time. Please stay safe and try to remember the words of that great French character-actor, Pepe Le Pew, who said, “Doesn’t this croque monsieur come with French fries?” Until we rendezvous again, au revoir!