Last weekend Bob and I attended a Celebration of Life for a neighbor. It wasn’t a sad occasion, but truly was a celebration. It was held at Filoli Historic House and Garden, an incredibly beautiful setting. After we left the event, we explored the gardens and mansion, as encouraged on the invite. It truly lightened the heart to experience the beauty and history of the setting.
Speaking of history…

As we explored the house, I searched up “Filoli Gold Rush” just for funsies, as that topic is uppermost in my mind this summer. Believe it or not, there was a connection. The family who built the historic mansion made a lot of their money during the California Gold Rush! Now I need to add the Empire Mine in Grass Valley to my list of excursions. It seems there’s always something to learn… It’s just a good thing I love to learn new things!

So I have begun chapter 4 of my new book, which still doesn’t have a title. It will come to me, or I will happily entertain any suggestions. Once I explore more places, it might be inspired! Or maybe next year’s students can help me out…

I have checked out two books from the library, and am halfway through the first one. Want to know how gold was originally formed millions of years ago below the Earth’s surface? I learned that. Are you curious about how prominent John C. Fremont was during the Gold Rush? I could tell you. I find it interesting that he was an important figure in the Bear Flag Revolt, too. Who knew? If he comes up in my 1906 SF earthquake research next summer, I will be stunned!

So my story is slowly unfolding, and the time jump will be happening soon. I can’t wait, honestly! It takes time, like carefully unwrapping a coveted gift, so I will not rush it. And along the way I will continue to read and revise, and avoid the errors made in my rush to publish book 5. And what’s helping me? My strangely inspiring Spotify playlist, “Banjo Calm Instrumentals”. It’s perfect writing music!

Until next time…
Leave a comment