“Between airports, race tracks, and hayfields, life has been full speed ahead—and finally, I’m catching my breath long enough to share a little of it.”
Back in the Groove (and Trying to Stay There)
It’s been a hectic few weeks, and my poor blog has definitely been neglected. I’m trying to get into a better routine so I can post more consistently. I’m even considering a standard blog format to see if that helps — and after the first of the year, I plan to give the whole site a refresh. Big changes coming soon!
On the Road (Again)
The past two weeks have taken me to Las Vegas, Oklahoma City, and Atlanta — plus my usual back-and-forth between Greenville and Rowlett. Thankfully, no major flight delays, just the usual hiccups. If the government shutdown drags into the holidays, though, that could get dicey! My next scheduled trip is the week before Thanksgiving, but I wouldn’t be surprised if another one pops up before then.
Work is keeping me busy as I adjust to being on the customer side of the table instead of the vendor side. The Vegas trip was my first conference as a customer, and it was a completely new experience — I actually got to attend sessions, enjoy the keynote, and take part in evening events without the pressure of managing logistics. It was refreshing!
The trip to OKC was to help man my sister’s booth at The Village Arts Festival. We didn’t sell much art, but she made a lot of new contacts — and hopefully that will help spread the word about how fantastic and fun her art is. Her pieces can brighten any room! You can check out her work at The 3rd Flamingo.
Family & Racing Updates
While I’ve been traveling, my family’s been holding down the fort. My husband and grandson are wrapping up their Texas Cross Country Racing season — only one more race to go!
Iyan officially clinched 1st place in the 65 Beginner class! He doesn’t even have to attend the final race to keep his top spot. For someone who decided to race on a whim, he’s had a phenomenal season. He’s not sure yet if he’ll race next year (the big-bike track is a big step), but he already has a new KTM waiting for him if he decides to go for it.
Ray’s sitting in 2nd place for the Over-59 Experts, and if the stars align he could finish first. It’s a longshot, but you never know! I’m proud of him too — racing every other weekend and mowing and baling hundreds of round bales is no small feat. Most 59-year-olds don’t keep that pace!
We even hosted a race at our property at the end of September — 424 racers showed up, the second-highest turnout of the season! I’ll do a separate post on that event soon.
A Milestone Celebration
We also celebrated a big personal milestone — Ray turned 60 last week! I still see him as that young, determined guy who could do anything he set his mind to. He still can — just maybe a little slower.
We threw a party at Live Happy Lane Winery, and while the winery was a bit underprepared, everything turned out great. Friends and family came together to celebrate, and I might share more about the party details in another post.
Fall Fun (If We Can Find the Time!)
With everything going on, we haven’t made it to any Halloween festivals or haunted houses yet, and we usually host a “pumpkin smash” cookout at home. Today’s our only free day before Halloween, so I’m off to scroll through Facebook Events and see if I can find something spooky for us to do!
It’s been a whirlwind season, but such a good one.
What do you think — do you prefer a more spontaneous schedule or a set routine for your creative projects? I’d love to hear how others stay consistent when life gets busy.
With love & glitter,
Valerie
Feathers and Phases 
Whirlwind periods are great, but the calm after the whirlwind is even better. A mix of planned and unplanned time works the best for me.
You need to remember – what happens at The Live Happy Winery should stay at The Live Happy Winery!
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I am sure several people would agree that what happens at The Live Happy Winery should stay there. At least everyone was happy!
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