Some Changes Coming Around Here

Did I tell you I'm obsessed with the British Baking Show?
 
I really needed to get some rest and relaxation into my schedule, and I ended up in the tent with the armature bakers. Virtually, unfortunately. #wsite-video-container-735888829707274037{ background: url(//www.weebly.com/uploads/b/4991960-2940... } #video-iframe-735888829707274037{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-735888829707274037, #video-iframe-735888829707274037{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-735888829707274037{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } Now I'm dreaming about Mary Berry's Viennese Whirls and Victoria Sponge, and drooling over Paul's couronne. That's yummy bread with endless choice of fillings and twisted into the shape of a crown.  Mention puff pastry or creme patissiere, and I need a swooning coach.
 
I have  done a little baking in the last month. My recipes turned out delicious, despite the soggy bottom, slightly dry texture and flavors not "coming through." I am definitely sticking to writing Writing and my other job of marketing and promotion. Recently, I revamped this website   and simplified the format of my weekly newsletter, which are cosmetic changes.

After the events of 2020, I'm also looking at some changes on a deeper level. I'm considering my work, and how I want to be present in the world, from a slightly different perspective. To be honest, I haven't, yet, been able to put it into clear words. I'm guessing that many of you are asking similar questions.  So much has happened in the last twelve months and the dust has yet to settle. When the pandemic sheltering at home started,  it was hard getting used to my husband working from home, but that adjustment proved a small wrinkle easily smoothed. Other changes are more difficult.

What does it mean to be a writer in a culture suffering information overload? How does a white women act constructively to help end deep-rooted racism and inequity in America?  How does a writer help strengthen democracy when citizens disagree on what's fact and what's fiction?

I'll keep writing books and I'll keep connecting with readers. I'll be sharing my process of re-evaluating the work I do, why I do it, and what outcomes I hope for.
 
I'm always grateful to hear from you. In fact, sometimes I'm so moved by what you share, that I ask permission to include your words here for everyone.

Words from Readers
 
After the newsletter featuring Gloria Steinem, I heard this from Robert,.
​  After my newsletter celebrating International Women's Day, I heard from Hannah. She wrote in response to my question about how you, despite your busy life and many commitments, are helping forge a better world for women. I recently received my second shot, so I'm fully vaccinated, and ready to make some changes in 2021.  Over the next week or two, I'll be sharing my process as I decide how to react constructively to the events of 2020. I'd love to hear how you are navigating change.