friends

Thinking about all things Thanksgiving

But it's hard, because I'm being bombarded by Christmas. Songs, decorations, advertising, everything. I love the holidays, each, in order, but lately, it feels as if Thanksgiving is being completely squeezed out. So, I hope you'll join me in a little crusade to think about Thanksgiving. It's time for an attitude of gratitude. So between now, and Turkey Day, try to be extra thankful for everything in your life. Start with you. Look at yourself in the mirror, and smile. Be thankful for the person looking back at you.

Extend your thanks to your friends and family.  Tell someone you love that you do. Do it now.

You know all of those people who make your life a little easier everyday? Tell them thanks. Look them in the eye and mean it.

Have you volunteered lately? Directly helping another human being who you don't know, who happens to be down on her luck will always impact your heart and soul. That's not the reason to do it, of course, but when you do give back you are the one who will receive.

Thanksgiving blessings abound. Spend your time between now and then making sure you notice them all.

Be thankful today

Real You: Book Parties!

     Don't you just love a party? I do. And I have had a blast this past month at launch parties for HERE, HOME, HOPE at friends' homes and at amazing small businesses across the country. If you're interested in hosting a party - and having me there - please let me know! We have a Book Party Kit and more to help make your event a fun, memorable summer soiree! Please contact me - kaira AT kairarouda.com for more information or send me a message on Facebook or Twitter.      Coming up this month are stops in Dallas (June 8 and 9), Los Angeles (June 10-13), Scottsdale (June 14 and 15) - followed closely by Chicago, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Louisville, Nashville, Jacksonville, Orlando, and then a huge swing through the Northeast: Portland, Boston, Cape Cod, Nantucket and more. I would love to join you, your friends, your book club and more for a party. I'll also be making appearances at book stores across the country all summer and I'd love to see you there. Book tour here.   

I wrote about how much fun the parties have been, and how it's been a great excuse to reconnect with friends for Girlfriendology, and my friend Debba Haupert. See you in Cincinnati, Debba!!

Real You: That's what friends are for!

So, here I am, on the campaign trail so to speak. Promoting an about to be released debut novel feels like a long solo trek sometimes but just when I begin to think all is lost and lonely, something fabulous comes along! In this particular case, in the form of a profile on the blog of the amazing Beth Hoffman, author of the equally amazing novel Saving CeeCee Honeycutt. To be a guest on a New York Times Bestselling novelists blog is - well - a dream come true. I'm still pinching myself! Here's the link.

And yes, Beth is as nice and real as she seems. Amazing.

Real You: That's what friends are for. . .

Just back from my college reunion and I had a blast. Meandering around campus, buying things at the bookstore, cheering at the football game, sharing memories at parties - and well, just reconnecting. Friends - new and old - help us stay connected to ourselves. They remind us of who we were, and who we've become. They cheer us on, reflect our passions back to us. And they remind us, always, to count our blessings. Each and every one.