Hats and holidays

I wear many hats in real life and cyberspace. Truthfully, you won't catch me without a hat on my head if its daylight. It seems I got my lifetime dose of sunshine nearly fifty years ago, so I have to be extremely careful. Sunblock is my best friend.

I inhabit the realms of mystery and romance, of traditional publishing and indie publishing, which can be something of a logistical challenge at best. The good news is I never have to wonder what I'm going to do next. Something is always happening. And I like it that way!

This week, starting this past Wednesday on Dec 5 through this Sunday Dec 9, my zany cozy mystery is yours for the taking on Kindle. With great reviews from Kirkus, Mysterious Reviews, The Reading Reviewer, and a wonderful fanbase on Amazon, this Five Star rated book is a winner for readers who enjoy romantic mysteries.

You'll want to follow this link to download a complimentary copy. http://tinyurl.com/8u7bcnq 
Be sure to tell your friends. On The Nickel the holiday gift that keeps on giving!

This year, thanks to the gift of fabric and an inherited sewing machine, I've been sewing aprons for my family. In our tiny house, the only space to do this is on the kitchen table. Fortunately, my husband goes with the flow. Last night he rested the bowl of taco meat on the table top ironing board beside his place mat without batting an eye.

Other holiday traditions I enjoy, besides gathering with family and friends, is helping out at the giftwrapping both at our outlet mall. So many folks come in and want something special for their loved ones and they ooh and ahh over the pretty handmade bows and shiny paper. We have foil wraps, jumbo bows, and best of all, big ears to listen to everyone's story.

grandson Abe

That's right. Everyone has a story, and the need to share it drives us to seek out others. The best gift, IMO, is to take the time to listen to someone this season. Sit down and really listen to what they have to say.

I have a dear friend who works at soup kitchens in December. She makes big pots of soup at home and brings them in to share with everyone at the kitchen. Another friend spends extra time helping out at the shelter.

What about you? Do you have your hands full with the regular hustle and bustle? Do you cut corners on decorating or baking to make it all work out? Just wondering.

Don't forget to get your copy of On The Nickel.

Wishing you the merriest of holidays!

Maggie Toussaint
www.maggietoussaint.com