Today, I had the special fun of meeting an online friend/fan in person for the first! That's right, our own Clara Darling and her mom and sister drove twelve hours to come meet me in downtown Raleigh for a truly delightful lunch-date. I was so honored and pleased!

This is just after finishing some amazing desserts at Gravy, one of my favorite Italian restaurants. Rohan came along as my escort, but sadly, we didn't get a picture with him. He acted as photographer instead.   What a wonderful afternoon we had, laughing and chattering about books and art and music and movies. Clara Darling is a girl after my own heart. I thought I would share these fun pictures with all of you Goldstone Wood Imps. I wish all of you could have been there to enjoy Clara's sweet spirit and company along with me! Many thanks to her, her mom, and her sister, for taking such a roadtrip. It made my day!  P.S. Ian, I know who did this drawing now . . .  Your secrets are out!