Got back last Monday from a wonderful trip to Los Angeles to visit former St. Petersburg Times writers, now LA Times editors, Bill Nottingham and Susan Denley.  We took a two-day jaunt into the Santa Barbara and  San Luis Obispo wine country (known for Pinot Noir and Chardonay). Talked to the Orange County National Alliance on Mental Illness and held a book signing at the Costa Mesa Borders on Saturday, selling lots of books at both, before heading back the Nott/Denleys for a lovely private book signing party there. Lots of good company, good wine and great laughter. Not to mention an inspiring rendition of “Oh Canada” by Bill. :)

Returned home to find that Falling into the Sun is a FINALIST!! in Foreword Reviews 2009 Best Book of the Year Awards! Winners will be announced in May at BookExpo America, in New York. Can’t think of a better way to end a fantastic trip!