In Memory

My grandmother, Ardie Rodale, recently passed away peacefully after a long illness. While it’s incredibly sad, I’m consoled by focusing on many warm, happy memories of her, as I think she would have wanted anyone who knew her to do.

In 2007, we both had books out—The Heir And The Spare and Everyday Miracles—and we went on tour to promote them. We did radio interviews from her office, and we traveled to Ohio and Kentucky for book signings, talks, more radio interviews and even a TV appearance (picture below), and stops at gift shops. It was a wonderful, whirlwind trip where we got to know each other as people and writers, not just as family. That was a gift.

My grandmother read my romance novels. I once gave her the first 80 or so pages of The Rogue And The Rival before it was published and she called me up demanding more. I half-jokingly offered her a version with the sex scenes cut out and she said “Absolutely not.” Hee Hee! She was a funny, spunky old lady and she will be missed.

I’m looking forward to family time this holiday more than usual.  I hope y’all enjoy a happy holiday and New Year.