A New Year will soon begin .........

 Today is Thursday, December 30th.  Tomorrow is New Year's Eve.

2021 has been a most interesting year, a good year for me in many ways.   I made the decision to sell my house and to become an apartment dweller.   As the snow falls I'm thinking I made the right decision as this winter I don't need to be concerned about keeping the driveway and back patio & deck clear of the white stuff.  I don't need to be concerned about too much snow piling up on the roof or the old furnace giving up.   

It's true that apartment living is a zero financial investment.  It's also true that there are no, or at least limited, financial surprises.

I've never publicly talked much about the fact that I had a quite severe adverse reaction to my covid-19 vaccinations.  I would not, in any way, want to deter others from getting their shots. But, because of my experience, my specialist has told me to simply not get the booster shot.   I will seek confirmation of this advice with my family doctor within the next few days.

Not getting the booster, I will admit, makes me feel a little more vulnerable to the nasty Omicron that is making itself too much at home in the country, and in my Province of Ontario where today it was announced there are more than 13,000 new cases.

I was hoping, and continue to hope, that the Age Friendly Shopping Service will be reinstated here in our small City of Elliot Lake.   We are still considered a retirement town and I know that many seniors and other vulnerable citizens benefited from the service in the past.   As numbers climb daily, to me, it makes sense to take all possible preventative steps.  

It will soon be 2022.  I haven't really considered making any New Year's Resolutions however I will, as I have done for many past New Years, follow the advice of my late Scottish mother-in-law who taught me to "start the way you mean to go on".     

For me, this means to ensure that the home is clean, the cupboards organized, lots of food in the fridge, and bills paid in full.   

Unfortunately, due to crazily rising covid numbers, I will be starting 2022 in semi-isolation.   I will avoid groups, socialize within my bubble, and find activities to keep body, mind, and spirit alive and well.

I have interesting writing projects; my art table all set up; an autoharp waiting for me to play; Udemy courses to complete; and SingSnap to muddle through.   My only room-mate, Lila, actually likes my singing. 

Princess Delilah (Lila)

 

2021 has been an interesting year and it is my sincere hope & prayer that 2022 will bring about the end of  the pandemic.  The past couple of years have been challenging for everyone.   I remind myself that this, too, shall pass.

I sincerely wish all my family and friends peace, health, prosperity, and gratitude in the coming year.   Thank you for walking with me as we continue the journey throughout 2022.

Happy New Year!

STRUGGLE - To Reach The Bridge of Light -- Free Christmas Eve & Christmas Day, 2021 (Kindle Edition)

 On December 24th and December 25th, my latest novel titled 'Struggle - to reach the bridge of light' will be free in the Kindle Store.

https://www.amazon.ca/STRUGGLE-Reach-Bridge-Audrey-Austin/dp/B08YHYVB2D/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Audrey+Austin&qid=1640012119&s=books&sr=1-1

This is my Christmas gift to my readers. Thank you all for your continued support of my creative writing efforts.

Merry Christmas to all!

INVITATION To Be Your Own Light

I'd like to share with you these words that I put together a few years ago.

We are living in transformational times.  Sometimes we allow the fast pace, uncertain economic environment, and rapid technological advances in our world to create stress in our lives.

It is good to remember that we are not strangers on the path.

As we advance through the darkness of winter we will, as the ancients before us, carry the light within.

As the Hindu celebrates Deepavali (Diwali), Festival of Lights; as the Christian celebrates Christmas remembering that Jesus said, "I am the light"; as the Buddhist is reassured by the words of Buddha, "Be your own light"; as the Jewish celebrate Chanuka with the lighting of the candles; the wisdom of the ancients teaches us always to let our light shine.

But sometimes we feel afraid, in the dark, in the shadow.  This, too, is part of the human experience.  And sometimes when we are  most in need of the light we forget where to find it.

We all know that it is easier to see the light in a dark room but when we do find ourselves in a dark room, we worry, we fret, we experience stress and fear.  We will search everywhere outside of ourselves for the switch that will brighten the room and disperse the shadows.

I invite you, instead, to look within for the precious light that is always there in the stillness even on the darkest and coldest of winter nights.

"What else shall beautify a home but the flame of a lovely lamp.  What else shall adorn the mind but the Light of wisdom deep."

  

ATTITUDE

I came across this while organizing some files this morning. Attitude There once was a woman who woke up one morning looked in the mirror and noticed she had only three hairs on her head. Well, she said, I think I'll braid my hair today. So she did and she had a wonderful day. The next day she woke up looked in the mirror and saw that she had only two hairs on her head. Hmm, she said. I think I'll part my hair down the middle today. So she did and she had a grand day. The next day she woke up looked in the mirror and noticed that she had only one hair on her head. Well, she said, today I'm going to wear my hair in a ponytail. So she did and she had a fun, fun day. The next day she woke up looked in the mirror and noticed that there wasn't a single hair on her head. Yea! she exclaimed. I don't have to fix my hair today. Attitude is everything.

Sharing a post written prior to summer of 2021 :-)

This summer of 2021 I will celebrate my 14th creative writing anniversary. My most recent publication is a metaphysical/science fiction novel titled "STRUGGLE - To Reach the Bridge of Light". Mother Earth can take no more. It's a sad day when a mother must give up on her children. Like the phoenix, the spirit and the environment of earth rise leaving behind destruction and devastation. The chosen seven are truly amazed when they discover why they have been rescued. My prior novel is titled "The Observer - His Eye Is On The Sparrow". This is a story of three generations of women, yet the story of two souls. Karina, Anna, and Karen, three very different personalities yet each, while dealing with her own struggles, continues to repeat family patterns. This story, begun in NaNoWriMo's adventure of 2019, will touch your emotions and leave you with a smile. The settings of Bangalore, India and Elliot Lake, Ontario, Canada share little in common; each offering its own colour and character. This is my first novel to focus on religion; in this instance the religions of Christianity and Hinduism. A recent book titled "No Place to Lay Her Head ... a handful of moments" is available in paperback and Kindle editions on Amazon. In this book I share my journey through grief since the death of my partner, Brian, nearly three years ago. This books is cathartic but I hope of benefit to anyone who is grieving the loss of a loved one. Another short story titled The Man On The Bench; a metaphysical delight, is part of my recent writing adventure. You will also want to check out DRAMA - a Novel Idea which is a boxed set of my most popular novels: Moose Road - a Canadian Tragedy; Ellen and The Hummingtree; and Sara, a Canadian Saga. While individual novels are available in both paperback & Kindle formats; DRAMA is available in Kindle format only. Simply BE is a collection of inspirational thoughts, quotations, and sayings, that I hope will offer the reader inspiration and guidance. This book is currently used as an aid in meditation and healing circles and will, I hope, inspire you to be who you really are. Other recent publications in both print and Kindle format include my first book of poems titled "Poetry From A to Z" and a short story anthology titled "The Silent Star Plus a Dozen Selections." "Dinner At Seven" is, I'm excited to announce, my 15th book but also my very first romance novel. Also new on the scene is Crabapple Court; a novella. Susie Donnelly is missing. Has she run away? Is it a kidnapping? A murder? Beyond The Blue is a coming-of-age novella in which a child finds a magical, mystical way to deal with bullying. This novella is also in both Paperback and Kindle format. More recently this book has been published in audio book format narrated by Earl Sewell and available on Amazon, Itunes, and Audibles. "When God Gives Us Spring" is a story of love, hate & revenge that takes place pre and during civil war in the U.S. This novella is available in paperback, kindle, and audio book format. Recompense is a recent novella that explores "older" people in the "new world" of chat room dating. A bit of a farce this one provides some enjoyable reading. Prior to these publications I was kept busy with the creation, compilation and publication of a trilogy of anthologies containing short stories which keep the focus on social issues. The books are titled SOCIAL STUDIES - Book One - Dying To Be Popular; Book Two - Shattered and Broken; Book Three - Weaving Alice. These 36 stories will make you laugh; make you cry; and certainly make you simply wonder at the human condition as it is experienced by many in our modern contemporary world. I'm very excited to announce that "Keeping It Simple", the trinity of meditation, the 7 major chakras and psychospiritual therapy, is now available in both Kindle and Paperback Format on all Amazon sites. It is also available in print format directly from Create Space. https://www.createspace.com/4733596 It is my hope that one day I will have learned enough to narrate this book and transform it into an audio book. My first novel, "Sara, a Canadian Saga", is available in paperback and kindle formats but has now been released as my first audio book; written by yours truly; narrated by Falon Echo; and the cover design by Susan RK of Yuneekpix.com This audio book is available on Amazon; Audibles; and ITunes. I'm thrilled to announce that "When God Gives Us Spring" is my second book to be released as an audio book. This audio book is written by yours truly; narrated by Earl Sewell; and the beautiful cover design is by Susan RK of Yuneekpix.com It is available on Amazon; Audibles; and ITunes. Whether you choose my poetry; or an anthology; one of my novels, a novella, or a short story I hope you enjoy your reading experience. Thank you to my readers. I much appreciate your encouragement, your support and I hope you know that your positive reviews are much needed and very welcome.

Laundry Day

I'm doing my laundry this rainy morning. This entails taking the clothes from the hamper, walking down the hall, putting clothes into the washer, then I come home, sit down for 45 minutes before going to put the clothes into the dryer. Once dry, they are sorted and put away. What can be easier? Then I think of my dear mother who I will forever love and miss. For her, doing the laundry meant wash day. And it was called wash day because it did take her all day with no 45 minute rests between loads. She would takes the clothes from the hamper, carry them downstairs to the wringer washing machine. She would need to stay with the machine and carefully put each piece of clothing through the wringer once they were clean. One day my mother's long hair was caught in that wringer. A little girl, I stood by helplessly, fearfully hearing her cries until at last she could reach the plug to stop that wringer. Once through the wringer, the heavy wet load of clothes needed to be carried upstairs, then outside to the clothes line where, weather hot or cold, she would use the clothes pegs to hang the first load before going down to take care of the next one. In summer she would be be sunburned. In winter her poor hands would get so rough and dry that sometimes they bled. After getting the dry clothes off the line she would fold them into her basket before setting up the ironing board. Almost everything needed to be ironed and we were a family of eight so there was a lot of work for my dear mother. Once ironed, all the clothes would be put away neatly in drawers or hung in the closet. By then it would be time to get out the pots and pans because everyone would be looking for supper. My mother was a beautiful, hard-working, caring Mom and she worked her butt off for her family with very little appreciation, and no one ever thought to stop and say thanks Mom, for doing my laundry, or thanks Mom, for making my dinner, or thanks Mom, for keeping our home so clean and pretty. I'm doing my laundry today. For me alone. And doing my laundry means I have time to sit down and type these words while I think about what movie I will watch this afternoon on TV. Yes, we have come a long way! But hang on to the precious memories of what women have endured in order to bring us to where we are able to have an easier life today. I miss my Mom and I am grateful for all that she taught me.

On the Move

 Today is Monday, August 16, 2021, a beautiful, bright morning just days after the microburst that brought many trees down in Elliot Lake.   I, personally, was fortunate as the trees close to my home remained strong and standing.  Others weren't so fortunate and it was a memorable storm.  Power was off for hours.  Many without generators lost their refrigerator and freezer food.  Again, I was fortunate to have good neighbours, with generator, who offered to keep my freezer food frozen and I suffered no losses.  I am thankful.

Soon I will be on the move.  I will be meeting new friends and neighbours as I make the major change from long-time home-owner to apartment dweller.   I look forward to the move but I can't deny that I will miss my backyard and my front porch.   

At this time my heart goes out to the Afghan people who are desperate to move out of their country that is under Taliban control.  Knowing the chaotic scene and the necessity of their evacuation, my move seems much less significant.

But, to me, my upcoming move is a major transition.

I moved to Elliot Lake twenty-one years ago and I bought my Central Avenue home in January of 2000.  I made the move from Caledon East in April and until four years ago that was my home where I lived happily with my Brian who was a very hard worker.  Together we made many improvements on our Central Avenue home and we spent many happy times in our home and especially in what we called "The Ki House" which was a cedar gazebo in the backyard.

It was a nice home but stairs everywhere since the house had three levels plus a tiered backyard and an elevated deck.  Unfortunately Brian's rheumatoid arthritis deemed we must move to make his life easier.  A home on one level was needed and that is why we made the move to my current home on Roman Avenue.

Brian was in good health when we made the purchase of the new home but, sadly, before we made the actual move he needed a surgery that could not be postponed.  What was meant to be a minor surgery became major and recovery was very slow.  By the time we moved into the home on Roman, Brian was very ill.   A hospital stay was required.

He lived in this Roman Avenue home for a very short time and then he was in hospital for a few months and then God took my Brian home.

Nothing was as planned.  While Brian was in hospital, hopeful that he would soon return home, the planned changes to this house continued.   The big, ugly, old shed was demolished; a beautiful big deck was built in its place.  Fencing was built and pretty gardens created.   The house was opened up with everything new from floors to ceilings.   

But Brian didn't return home.  And my heart was never in this home no matter how hard I tried to make it my own.   

I cried when I had to leave my Central Avenue home.  I used to tell others the only way I would leave that house would be in a box.   

Leaving the house here on Roman Avenue, I will not cry.  I look forward to the move. 

Most of the packing is completed now.   One week from today I will be on my way to my new home which will be a Retirement Living apartment.

I will miss my backyard.  I will miss my front porch.  But, although this little house has served me well, I am okay knowing it will be added to my list of "All Them Houses" that have been there for me over the years.

I've written and published part one of my memoir.  It is, of course, titled "All Them Houses".  It is available, along with all my books, on all Amazon sites.  https://amazon.com/author/audreyaustin

My little chihuahua, Princess Delilah, or Lila as I lovingly call her will make the move to our new apartment with me.  She is my constant companion.  I think she will adapt okay to this transition.  As long as she has her little sofa, her toys, and lots of belly rubs, she is a happy little girl.  Because she, like her Mom, is aging she doesn't walk as well or as far as she used to do.  She will miss her little backyard jaunts.  But I've bought a little stroller and I will be able to wheel her from our apartment to a green space where she can enjoy her little walk.   And fortunately she is paper-trained.  She has a fast growing fatty tissue growth on her rear upper leg which, unfortunately, cannot be removed due to a heart condition which prohibits anaesthetic.

My lovely living room and dining room are not so lovely anymore as you can see by the photo below.

Almost all packed and ready to go.

No, as compared to the desperate people of Afghanistan, my upcoming move is quite run of the mill and unimportant in the scheme of things.  But, for me, it is life-changing.   Life is good and life goes on.  

Thanks for listening to my ramblings.  And thanks for checking out my publications at https://amazon.com/author/audreyaustin 

In this pic I was sixteen years old.
Life was good.
And more than sixty years later it still is.
Life is good and life goes on.

 

Canada Day 2021

One of my sisters had the patience and the motivation to learn much about our family's ancestral background.   And she learned that way back in the 16th century our ancestors began making their way to Canada.  They came from France, from Ireland, from England, and from  Scotland.  They made their homes on Prince Edward Island and some chose to travel west to British Columbia.  They came to Canada to make a better life for themselves and for their families.

My family has been in this country for a very long time.  I'm growing old so I can honestly say that I, myself, have been in this country for what, to some, may seem a very long time.

I feel grateful, and I feel proud to be Canadian.   I've been blessed to have my fair share of international travel throughout my life and this has made me very appreciative of the good life Canada has to offer.

I am far from perfect.  My country is far from perfect.  But I hope we are better than we used to be.   And I hope that as time passes we will become even better than we are today.

No one can undo the past.  But we can all learn from it, and we can all do our best to do better and to ensure that negative history never repeats itself.

I sincerely believe that every child matters.   Every child deserves the opportunity to live in peace, in friendship, in safety, and in love.   

Let's acknowledge and learn from our past.  Let's all work together in the present to create a future that every Canadian will want to celebrate.

I wish everyone peace and love.

Happy Birthday Canada!  Canada Day, 2021!  

Another Monday

Just this morning I heard on the news about the death due to covid of the thirteen-year-old little girl in Brampton, Ontario.  No longer is this an old person's disease.    My thoughts and prayers are with this little girl's family. 

It's tough enough to be an old lady, home-bound, isolated.   I know if I needed to live the life I'm living today when I was very young, I would have gone crazy.  Filled with energy, motivation, and life, I know it has to be a great challenge for young people to rein in their activities.   I can only hope that younger people will become more aware and careful in their actions. 

Like many, I've received my first covid vaccination.   The hoped-for three weeks until booster shot have long passed. I'm assured I will receive booster in four months or less.   Four months from the date of my first shot will have me visiting the clinic sometime in July.

My latest publication, STRUGGLE - To Reach the Bridge of Light looks into a future world; one where Covid, along with environmental issues, rules.  Mother Earth gives up on her children.

This morning I am listening to the news.  I don't like to spend too much time in this way.  I choose to stay more positive, but I don't mind admitting that when I look into the pretty, peaceful eyes of my great-grandchild I can't help but wonder what kind of a world she will be growing up in.

Tables need to turn.  New direction is needed.   

Spring has arrived.  New growth, new birth, new ideas, new goals.

As for me, it's another Monday for which I'm grateful.  I hear the laundry calling my name.  Time to finish my coffee and get to work.

My thoughts and prayers are with the people of India at this time.  And also with you. 

Stay healthy.  Stay safe.  Remember you are your own best friend. Stay strong my friend.  

Thanks for checking out my publications available exclusively on Amazon.  

https://amazon.com/author/audreyaustin

https://www.amazon.ca/STRUGGLE-Reach-Bridge-Audrey-Austin/dp/B08YHYVB2D/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=Audrey+Austin&qid=1619448131&s=books&sr=1-3

Pandemic's Gift of Time Alone

Good Saturday morning. This pandemic's gift has been one of time alone for each of us. As for me, the time has been positive in many ways. I'm not in denial about the frustration the pandemic is presenting, but I have tried and I continue to try to make the best use of my time.

I do see this as a time to make decisions about what I want for my life; what I want to do; where I hope to be.

Listing my glider swing for sale on Facebook let the cat out of the bag about a possible upcoming move. This is something I have been keeping to myself because I have chosen the apartment and the building that I want. At this time there is no apartment available. Therefore, I may be moving in 3 months. Equally possible, I may be moving in 3 years. lol

But I want to be prepared and, for this reason, I am beginning to do as much downsizing as is possible.

Life is good. Speaking only for myself, it is not where we live but how we choose to live.

I like the following that my friend posted on Facebook.

Some paperbacks on hand for those who live here in town :-)

 Thanks to everyone who pre-ordered a copy of STRUGGLE - To Reach the Bridge of Light. All pick-ups have been completed now.

I have two extra copies of the book if anyone in Elliot Lake is interested. The books are $20.

I also have a few copies on hand of my last novel THE OBSERVER - His Eye is on the Sparrow.

Please message me if you are interested in a copy of either or both books. Thank you.

https://amazon.com/author/audreyaustin

A New Writing Project -- On The Radio

 A few years ago, in fact, way back in February of 2010, I submitted a manuscript into Wynterblue Publishing's Novella Competition.   I was overjoyed that my submission was placed among the top seven.  Of course, I don't know how many entered the competition.  Perhaps there were only seven entries.   Dear Maggie Kirton, it's a long time ago now, but do you remember?   

What I remember is that I felt very good and pleased with myself that I had written a three act play; something I had never done before.  And I don't mind adding, this is something I have not done since.

The only other play I have written was titled "Chocolate Cookies".  And with that play I remember feeling very happy that ELATE, my small town's local theatre group, selected this play and they presented it twice to audiences here in Elliot Lake.  It was my first attempt at play writing, and it was a one act play about sisters who rarely agreed with one another, especially when it came to the topic of diet, and about the husband of one of the sisters who skilfully managed to stay out of the sisters' arguments.

Now this three act play was titled "On The Radio".  The title was not my creation.  In fact, it was one of several titles suggested for the competition.  I don't remember how many choices were given but I do remember that "On The Radio" was subject #2 and the one that I chose.   I was also given the plot of the story.  It was to be about a late night radio show host who begins to receive calls from a nine-year-old boy using his mother's prepaid cell phone making the calls untraceable.

The story was to be close to 100% dialogue and it was to focus on social issues.  It did not have to be a play but I decided this was my opportunity to bite the bullet and write something I had never written before.

My novella, my play, ended up containing 18,444 words.   After that, it ended up on a shelf in my closet and that is where it has been sitting since eleven years ago.

I've recently completed the publication of my latest novel STRUGGLE - To Reach the Bridge of Light.

It is time for a new project.

Just this evening, for some strange reason, I thought about this play that I wrote long ago.  And then I began wondering how difficult or how easy will it be to convert this three act play into a novel.  Will it be possible to expand the original 18,444 words, nearly 100% dialogue, into a novel with at least 50,000 words?

I don't have the answer to the question as I type this blog post.  But I do, out of the blue, have the inclination and the motivation to find out.

My new writing project, starting tomorrow, will be the writing of my twenty-first novel.  It will be called, just like the play, "On the Radio".   Or will it?   Maybe the main character will not be a radio talk show host.  Maybe he will be a TV late night show host.   Or maybe his show will be live stream on the internet.  Or .....?    I don't know yet but  I will sleep on it tonight and hope I will know this by tomorrow.

Wish me luck on my new writing project!  Thank you.

And while I'm writing, I will be overjoyed if you will check out my latest book, titled STRUGGLE - To Reach the Bridge of Light which is available in both Kindle and Paperback format exclusively on Amazon.  https://www.amazon.ca/STRUGGLE-Reach-Bridge-Audrey-Austin/dp/B08YHYVB2D/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=Audrey+Austin&qid=1617237270&s=books&sr=1-1

Cover design:  yuneekpix.com

Thanks for visiting my Amazon author's page at https://amazon.com/author/audreyaustin

What an exciting morning!

 

Wow! No one is more excited than me this morning! I now have the very first print copy of my latest book sitting here on my breakfast bar. It has been months of often challenging/always pleasurable work keeping up with the characters. Now to have the book in my hand feels almost surreal.

For those of you who have ordered a copy from me, they should be here soon. For those of you who did not order a copy, it is available in paperback and kindle exclusively on Amazon. My author's page is https://amazon.com/author/audreyaustin The Amazon.ca link is https://www.amazon.ca/STRUGGL.../dp/B08YHYVB2D/ref=sr_1_1...

 

https://www.amazon.ca/STRUGGLE-Reach-Bridge-Audrey-Austin/dp/B08YHYVB2D/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=STRUGGLE+-+To+Reach+the+Bridge+of+Light&qid=1615470090&s=books&sr=1-1

I'm excited to announce that as of today my latest work titled STRUGGLE - To Reach the Bridge of Light is available in both Kindle and Paperback format exclusively on all Amazon sites.

Due to covid there will be no big book launch party here in town but I have ordered some paperbacks for those in Elliot Lake who have requested a copy.  Thank you always for your support of my writing adventures.  xoxoxox

STRUGGLE - To Reach the Bridge of Light - What's it about?  

STRUGGLE - To Reach the Bridge of Light is a metaphysical/science fiction novel. Mother Earth has had enough. It is a sad day when a mother gives up on her children. The chosen seven share their stories as they lived their lives on earth. 

Scattered throughout the world in Canada, United States, Peru, Venezuela, and New Zealand, they are each warmed by the blue triangle which delivered the bridge of light that carries them to a small island in the Caribbean.

Guided by Archangel Michael, they continue their journey on the bridge of light to the old brown boat which magically takes them to the centre of the sea. The merkabas arrive and the seven ascend to a way station where they meet the Official Examiner, Great Cosmic Power, who informs them that they are a soul family reunited to continue their ascension as the chosen children of light.

My summary barely touches on the reality of the seven as they struggle throughout their lives on earth challenged by poverty, relationship issues, grief, hunger, illness, and death.  The chosen seven are further challenged by the mystery, the magic, the wonder of other worldly adventure that they experience on the bridge of light and beyond.

Throughout 423 pages Carley, Emily, Bernard, Connie, Maria, John, and Joseph share their stories with the reader who will also meet Archangel Michael, Great Cosmic Power, and dear Mother Earth who has given her all.  These ten characters bring The Bridge of Light alive for your reading pleasure.

As the author of this story, it was all I could do to keep up with them all.  :-)

https://www.amazon.ca/STRUGGLE-Reach-Bridge-Audrey-Austin/dp/B08YHYVB2D/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=STRUGGLE+-+To+Reach+the+Bridge+of+Light&qid=1615470090&s=books&sr=1-1

Cover Design:  Susan RK of https://yuneekpix.com

Photograph credit:  Red Shoe by Shirley Green, Toronto.

STRUGGLE - To Reach the Bridge of Light ... My baby is ready to leave home

 

STRUGGLE - To Reach the Bridge of Light is a metaphysical/science fiction novel. 

Mother Earth has had enough. It is a sad day when a mother gives up on her children.  Like the Phoenix, she has chosen to end it all.  Only seven earthlings will be saved.

The chosen seven share their stories as they lived their lives on earth. Scattered throughout the world in Canada, United States, Peru, Venezuela, and New Zealand, they are each warmed by the blue triangle which delivered the bridge of light which carries them to a small island in the Caribbean. 

Guided by Archangel Michael, they continue their journey on the bridge of light to the old brown boat which magically takes them to the centre of the sea. The merkabas arrive and the seven ascend to a way station where they meet Great Cosmic Power who informs them that they are a soul family reunited to continue their ascension as the chosen children of light.

I've been working on STRUGGLE - To Reach the Bridge of Light since last November.  I feel as though I am sending my child off to kindergarten for the first time.  Will she be accepted and make her way in the world?  

I am ordering my own paperback copy today.   I am placing an order for my Elliot Lake readers.  If you would like to save the shipping costs on this book let me know and I will add your name to my list.  Some of you I already have on my list.  

The book is $20 for my Elliot Lake readers including shipping on this order only.

Please let me know if you want to be added on the list today.

After today STRUGGLE - To Reach the Bridge of Light will be available on all Amazon sites in both Paperback and Kindle format.   

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B08YHYVB2D/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=STRUGGLE+-+To+Reach+the+Bridge+of+Light&qid=1615392312&s=books&sr=1-1

My Amazon author's page is found at https://amazon.com/author/audreyaustin

Even a homebody gets a little tired of staying home :-)

I love my family and my friends.  I love to socialize.  But, deep down, I'm basically a homebody, no question about that.  But, even a homebody gets a little tired of staying home.  I've basically been staying at home for a year, as have many of you.

For me, this year has been one of introspection, one of reflection, of contemplation, and decision making.  I've always been 'okay' with my own company and I have felt grateful that the activities I most enjoy, like creative writing and reading, for example, are things I necessarily need to be alone to do.

My 'bubble' has consisted of family members plus two, and I've been very grateful that all my immediate family, daughters, grandsons, and most recently my beautiful great-granddaughter, live here in Elliot Lake.  There have been many times, though, when even seeing these loved ones has not been possible during lock-down periods.  

During this past year I have completed several Udemy on-line courses and these have helped tremendously to keep my mind alert and thoughts positive.

During this past year I have made some changes in my home, nothing major, but enough changes to keep my surroundings interesting and, for me, comfortable.   I've felt very grateful for my little house.  I've never been a lover of housework but looking after my house has kept me busy.  I'm not a clean-freak but definitely a neat-freak, so it has mattered to me that I stay busy keeping the house organized.

During this past year I lost my beautiful boy, Samson.   I always called him my 'special needs puppy'.  I loved my Sam and I still do.  Always I will remember him with love and admiration.  He dealt with many challenges and I always knew in my heart that he wanted to be a good boy.  

Remembering Samson with love.

During this past year I've learned that my lovely Lila has a heart condition that is concerning.  She also has a fatty tissue growth above her back right leg that, sadly, cannot be removed because she cannot be under anaesthetic due to the heart condition.  I treasure every day I have to spend with her.

Lovely Lila

During this past year I have missed spending time with my friends.  I've become very grateful for Facebook which has allowed me to stay in touch and to share the love.

I have missed working.  I miss meeting with counseling clients and I miss our women's workshops. I worked hard putting together everything needed to facilitate a women's workshop that I had hoped to offer in our local library in April.   I, optimistically, postponed it to a date in July.  The workshop material is patiently waiting for the time to be right.  That day will come.  For now, it sits on a shelf.   

During this past year I have been grateful for Elliot Lake's Age Friendly Shopping and Delivery Service, and I continue to feel grateful for this service.  I know it has played a major role in keeping me, and many of my senior friends, healthy and safe.

During this past year I have completed the writing of my twenty-first manuscript.   I'm currently keeping busy with proofing, editing, formatting.   Please watch for STRUGGLE - To Reach the Bridge of Light on Amazon exclusively, hopefully late March or early April.  

Vaccinations are on the horizon.  I am seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.  I've been staying at home for so long, I truly hope I won't experience a culture shock when I venture out into the real world once more.  

Spring is only a couple of weeks away. Here in Elliot Lake it has, thankfully, been an easy winter with not a lot of snow and lots of beautiful sunshine.   

The focus this past year has been on staying home.  I hope we will soon be able to put this focus onto the back burner.

Life is good, and life goes on. 

My Audio Books

 

Author, Audrey Austin

I love creative writing.  I retired, or perhaps I should say semi-retired, from the working world thirteen years ago.  That is when I began to work as a writer. This summer, in July, 2021, I will celebrate my fourteenth creative writing anniversary.

During these fourteen years I have discovered that I am a very prolific writer and, to date, I have twenty books published and available for your reading pleasure exclusively on Amazon.  I am currently working on book #21 which is titled STRUGGLE - To Reach the Bridge of Light.

Above is a photo of all my current publications
 available in paperback exclusively on all Amazon sites.

I also have a large selection of short stories which dare to stand alone in the Kindle store.  My short stories are available exclusively on Amazon in Kindle format only.

Five of my novels, I am overjoyed to say, are available as audio books not only on Amazon, but also on ITunes and Audible.com    Below are the wonderful, creative covers designed for my audio books by SusanRK of Yuneekpix.com

A lovely, talented friend has very recently informed me that she is offering her services as audio book narrator.   Congratulations dear Becca Kelterborn.  I know you will be a great success.  I highly recommend Rebecca Kelterborn to all my author friends who are considering transforming their paperbacks into audiobooks.  She has presented my works in past public presentations and has never failed to make this author proud.

Just learning of Becca's new adventure has motivated me to consider having another of my manuscripts prepared for publication as an audio book; perhaps my most recent publication THE OBSERVER - His Eye is on the Sparrow, or maybe the manuscript I am currently working on titled STRUGGLE - To Reach the Bridge of Light.  Thank you Becca,  you are an inspiration.

My books available exclusively on all Amazon sites are available in both Kindle and Paperback format.   I invite you to visit my Amazon author's page at https://amazon.com/author/audreyaustin

Thank you to the talented, creative narrators who have blessed me by narrating these books of mine.  My five audio books are available for your listening pleasure on Amazon, Audibles, and ITunes.

WEAVING ALICE - a short story is FREE in the Kindle Store Saturday, March 6th and Sunday, March 7th

 

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FNXSKWY/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i4

WEAVING ALICE is a story about a meeting on earth between personified good and evil. The mystical ending will bring a smile to your face.

Imagine if you will a mystical, magical gift of tapestry creation powerful enough to eradicate the evil in our world.   This is the gift that Alice possesses.   Good versus evil told in an attention-holding manner.  I had a lot of pleasure writing this suspenseful story and I hope you will enjoy it; especially the surprise ending.

WEAVING ALICE - a short story is FREE for your reading enjoyment in the Kindle Store this weekend, Saturday, March 6th and Sunday, March 7th.

Check out my author's page at https://amazon.com/author/audreyaustin

Ellen and The Hummingtree is FREE in the Kindle Store this weekend

 

Ellen is a woman I came to know well during the writing of my third novel Ellen and The Hummingtree. She often puzzled me yet she also had the ability to make me laugh and cry. I grew to love her. And the more I came to know her I began to realize that she truly is a composite of the many caring spiritual women I have known throughout my life. Alzheimer is a dreadful disease and Ellen's victimization is a heartbreak. My writing of Ellen and The Hummingtree comes straight from the heart. I hope you will love her as I do.

If, like me,  you have known and loved someone who suffered Alzheimer Disease, this is a must-read book for you.

This weekend, Saturday, February 20th and Sunday, February 21st, Ellen and The Hummingtree is FREE in the Kindle Store.

Here is a review of Ellen and The Hummingtree written by my author friend, Phyllis Humby.  Thank you, Phyllis.

"Phyllis Humby

4.0 out of 5 stars Imaginative and Creative

Reviewed in Canada on August 9, 2013

Ellen and the Hummingtree is an interesting book about a woman of deep faith

 who has a unique coping mechanism. She speaks to God. Now, I know you

 will argue that many of us speak to God. But Ellen believes God lives inside a

 large yellow quartz rock in her backyard. Oh, and of course He speaks to her

 too. There's a little hole in the top of the rock. Never mind, just read the book.

It is a collection of well-written stories that weave back and forth through 

the emotional circumstances of a woman's life. These stories delve into her 

relationships as a daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Oh, and 

cousin - I forgot about her cousin Marielle.

In my opinion - only my opinion - the theme of this book is fear. I know that some 

of you who are familiar with this book may harrumph at that statement but a book 

is very personal. It's interpreted differently by each reader. That's why I love 

talking to my first readers. I'm fascinated by the interpretation of my work. Each 

person sees something different or relates with a different character. 

I digress (as always).

Audrey's character, Ellen, is on her own to raise two children. Fear. Her grandson, 

who has a learning disability, is bullied at school. Fear. God lives in a rock in her 

backyard. That would scare the crap out of me. (My attempt at humour - I'm sorry)

Ellen has many fears, as do we all. The fear of growing old and senile, the fear of 

having to give up a home to live in a facility. Then there is the ultimate fear. Of 

growing older and older and older, when all she wants is to re-unite with all the loved 

ones that have passed on. You do remember that I said this was strictly my opinion.

Near the end of the book there is a chapter I Need You to Remember Me. I remember

 reading that story, or at least an edited version, some time ago. Please tell me, 

Audrey, that this was a published short story at some point. If not, I had an incredible

déjà vu moment. I liked the story the first time I read it - otherwise I never would have 

remembered it - and it will remain indelible in my mind.

The last chapter Time to Go Home is melancholy and poignant. I have witnessed 

death and thought about life after death. I appreciate Audrey Austin's rendering. This 

chapter was a fitting ending to a thought provoking book with a unique approach."

Cover design:  SusanRK of Yuneekpix.com

Ellen and The Hummingtree is available in both Kindle and Paperback format 

exclusively on all Amazon sites for your reading pleasure.

Check it out at  https://www.amazon.ca/ELLEN-HUMMINGTREE-Audrey-Austin

/dp/1926614674/ref=sr_1_7?dchild=1&keywords=Audrey+Austin&qid=1613450014&s=books&sr=1-7

Visit my Amazon Author's page at https://amazon.com/author/audreyaustin