Jackie Layton's Blog, page 18

National Smile Week

I recently waved to another driver and smiled. The moment the driver saw my smile, he lit up and smiled back. I’m not saying people will treat us better if we smile, but maybe they will. Let’s try an experiment this week. Smile at more people, and see if you notice a difference.

National Simplify your Life Week

This is National Simplify Your Life week. Who knew such a thing existed? Life gets hectic, and it makes sense to simplify. I’ve got a few suggestions to simplify. Step away from your phone for a period of time. Declutter. I personally feel better when my kitchen island isn’t full of purses, mail, phones, and… Continue reading National Simplify your Life Week

One of My Favorite Bakers

Because cozy mysteries and baking are a popular combination, I’d like to introduce you to one of my favorite bakers, Brooke. (My other favorite baker is Brooke’s sister, Allie.) Me: Brooke, why do you enjoy baking cupcakes? Brooke: I enjoy cupcakes because they can be fun and creative, or you can make simple cupcakes. There… Continue reading One of My Favorite Bakers

Happy Fourth of July

Whatever holiday you celebrate this month, I hope you enjoy it. Next week, I’m going to have a most SPECIAL guest. I hope you can stop by then. Meanwhile, enjoy the holidays!

Cozy Mystery Author Kim Davis

I’m delighted to introduce you to another cozy mystery author, Kim Davis. Thanks so much for having me on your blog, Jackie! I’m celebrating my new release, cozy mystery Framed and Frosted, along with settling into having a new puppy in our home. While we doggie-sit our grand-doggie, Piper, several times a year (note: Piper… Continue reading Cozy Mystery Author Kim Davis

Cozy Mystery Book Club

They Cozy Mystery Book Club has monthly discussions on You Tube hosted by Angela Maria Hart. Each month on the channel Books Are My Hart Angela and a guest host discuss a cozy mystery. This month’s discussion is June 29 at 7:00 PM EST. Farm to Trouble by Amanda Flowers is this month’s book. https://angelamariahart.us12.list-man...… Continue reading Cozy Mystery Book Club

Howcatchem

Have you heard anybody say they prefer the ‘howcatchem’ type of mystery? Do you know what they mean? It refers to an inverted detective mystery story. The crime is described or shown at the beginning of the story. The reader usually knows the guilty person from the beginning. The sleuth attempts to solve the mystery.… Continue reading Howcatchem

The Power of Dog Friendships

Sharee Stover has been a trusted friend for years. We’re in a critique group together, and we’ve survived many ups and downs. Sharee’s newest romantic suspense, Cold Case Trail, came out last week. Please welcome her today as she shares about dog friendship. Friendships are powerful, whether with another human or with a beloved animal,… Continue reading The Power of Dog Friendships

How Far Would You Go to Help Your Pet?

I’m not just asking from a monetary aspect. Our dog, Heinz, has torn his ACLs in both back legs. He could possibly have a tumor on his spine or a herniated disc. The vet assured us surigical options were iffy. It could help Heinz, or it could make the situation worse. So what are we… Continue reading How Far Would You Go to Help Your Pet?

Kate Lansing…What’s In A Name?

While we all know 2020 was a terrible year, I made friends through social media. Kate Lansing is one of my new friends, and she has graciously stopped by for a visit. What’s in a Name? What’s in a name? Yes, a rose by any other name would still smell as sweet, yada yada yada.…