Squeeeeeze…

This little baby is rocking my world these days.

It is, for you plebean types who may not recognize the inherent gorgeousity, a vintage [c. 1950-ish]  juicer.

My friend A Novel Woman [hereafter known as The Negotiator] wrangled a guy down to 20 bucks for this beauty at the Lachute Flea Market. It is solid stainless steel, works like a charm and fills a glass with fresh-squeezed in four oranges or less.

It was, I have to admit, a bit of an adventure bringing it home in my carry-on — it weighs a ton, and made SEVERAL trips back and forth on the conveyor belt through the x-ray machine. [‘Jus’ _what_ did you say dis ting is, madame?’]

Totally worth it. A Novel Woman uses hers for lemonade, [which she interestingly spikes with vodka, to pleasing effect…], but I’ve stuck to oranges and grapefruits so far.

I may have to save lemonade for next summer…there are distinct signs of fall in the air. Like cold. And rain. My goal was to leave the roof off of my Jeep until October first, but…sadly, it went back on today.

In writing news, though, Fall means nothing but good things. Caught a glimpse of the Vancouver Readers and Writers’ Festival flyer today and it looks amazing, as usual. And for those of you who care more about the craft end of things, don’t forget the Surrey International Writers’ Conference.

As conferences go, you must know it is the one closest to my heart — and this year is going to be a blockbuster. Tickets are still available, so if you’ve always wanted to write that one special story — or if you are a well-published expert — there is something for everyone.

More details soon, but I can tell you I’ll be teaching a Beginner Intensive class the day before the conference proper opens, along with EIGHT other Master classes on offer, with the likes of authors Ivan Coyote, Jack Whyte, Robert Dugoni, and back by popular demand, NY agent Donald Maass. A couple of these events are close to selling out, so check out the website, willya? You don’t want to miss out!

Tonnes of all things writerly happening every day, so watch this space!

More soon…

~kc