Whew! Just finished getting my steps. Now it’s time to go to work, but first, a sincere thank you to all the people who sent me birthday greetings either by mail, email, or blog comment. The fact that people care enough to reach out like that is both surprising and gratifying. Why surprising? Because I never expected that to happen to a scrawny little girl from Bisbee, Arizona, who dreamed of becoming a writer when she grew up.
So here’s a look at how my day-to-day life looks. I crawl out of bed and get dressed. I grab my thermal cup of coffee and sip that while I scroll through my on-line news feeds and answer emails, using that time to charge my watch so I’ll be able to count my steps. In the late morning I make, serve, and clean up our breakfast. After that, I get my steps. In the late afternoon, I make, serve, and clean up after our evening meal. In between I handle whatever help Bill needs and let Mary in and out. She’s a doxie. She’s getting up there, and our German shepherd-sized doggie door is a bit too tall for her four-inch dachshund legs.
In the afternoons I work, which is to say, I write. Whether it’s writing the blog or a book, it’s still work, and yet it doesn’t feel like it. They say that if you find your passion, doing it doesn’t seem like work. I discovered that truth in that saying when I started writing that first never-published novel in 1982. It was true then, and it still is.
In other words, I regard myself as a pretty ordinary kind of person, so what happened to me this past Saturday evening was pretty remarkable. I had been asked to be an auction item (lunch with me) at Medic One’s annual fundraiser. Saturday was very dark and stormy around here, and I headed for the auction venue with more than a little dread.
It was held at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Bellevue, and it was huge. The crowd in the hallway outside the ballroom was overwhelming, and I was grateful to be escorted inside so I could be seated before the room filled up. My hostess and the person who had procured my auction item, was long time friend and Seattle media icon, Patti Payne. Over the course of the evening she introduced me to many of the power brokers who were on hand. I was actually seated next to a businessman whose company didn’t buy group insurance from me back in my insurance-selling days.
When it was time for my item to be auctioned off, I was introduced as “J.A. Jance, a Pacific Northwest literary treasure.” To my astonishment, the ballroom broke out in a round of thunderous applause. I believe my lunch went for something in the neighborhood of $3000. I’m not sure because, while it was being auctioned off another person from back in my insurance days, someone else who didn’t purchase anything from me, came up and introduced himself.
At this point in my life, I’m grateful for all the people who didn’t buy insurance from me. If they had, I might have ended up staying in the insurance business as opposed to living my dream.
One of MedicOne’s main centers of interest is training new medics. At this point they have two classes of twenty participants each underway, and one of those current trainees was seated at of the hotel’s banquet tables.
When I’m walking in the house, I don’t use a cane, but when I’m out and about, encountering places where the footing may be uneven,I bring my cane along for safety’s sake. When I was ready to head home that night, the auction was still in progress, but I was done. So I pointed at the young medic trainee seated at my table and asked if he would mind walking me down to the lobby.
Turns out it was a good thing I had both my trusty cane and the blessing of a supportive arm. At the door to the ballroom, there was one of those plastic thresholds used to cover electrical extension cords. Without assistance, I might well have taken an undignified tumble.
On the way out, my escort told me that his grandmother is a huge fan of mine and that she had been thrilled to hear I was going to be at the event. As a result, when we got down to the lobby, I had my daughter, who was driving Miss Daisy that night, take a photo of the young man and me together so he could give it to his grandmother.
It was only nine or so when my daughter dropped me off, but by then the windstorm was already tuning up, and it’s a good thing we came home when we did. By the next morning, two huge trees had fallen—one on my daughter’s street and another on ours.
But it was still a magical night—a night of being treated as a celebrity. That’s not at all how I see myself, but when I’m treated like one, it feels pretty damned special.
Now it’s time to stop writing the blog and see what Twink and J.P. are up to.
I am a few months older than you. I also now use a cane to prevent falls.
Older is not for the faint of heart.
I own all your books. Keep writing.
I sure enjoy receiving your newsletters! I started out as a Ali Reynolds series devotee but once I discovered JP Beaumont, I was in love. I am ALMOST 77 years old and look forward to many more stories from you. ?
Happy Birthday, and I’m so glad you had that special evening. That young man’s grandma will be delighted with that photo. Thanks for all of your good books which I’ve enjoyed, as has my husband.
I’m glad those people didn’t buy insurance from you, so that now you are immersed in your passion–writing. Your comment about finding your passion, and then it doesn’t feel like work, resonated with me, because since retiring from my “workin’ for the man” jobs, I’ve been teaching music, and have found that I love it. I find myself saying, on various occasions, “I’m so lucky to love what I do!” or “Thank you, God, that my mother made me practice when I was a kid, even though I resented it at first.” Or, “I have SUCH nice students!” Almost–but not quite–makes me feel guilty about accepted money for it!
Faith, on a personal note – did you go to school in Three Hills Alberta in the late 60s? If so, please message me, I’ve been looking for you!
I’m sitting here with goosebumps on my legs because, due. to the two comments above, I’m pretty sure two long lost friends are about to reconnect through reading my blog. That makes me very happy.
You bet I did! 1965, 66, and then 68. What’s your name besides Pastor Kerry’s Wife? I loved it there. How do I message you though–I’m pretty techno-challenged! I’m on Facebook if you care to PM me….
Dear Pastor Kerry’s wife,
I need you to send an email to me at jajance@me.com. I have something I need to send to both you and Faith.
Yes, I did, from 1965 to 1969 with a year off in between to attend grade 13 in BC. What’s your name, besides Pastor Kerry’s wife? I can hardly wait to find out!
Happy Birthday late, to my favorite author. The Girl From Devil’s Lake is great. Every book you have written is great, and I have read them all. Have a wonderful year.
You are a celebrity! I’d have been honored to have won lunch with you. That would have been a highlight of my life. Ever since I found your books you have become the author by which I evaluate other writers. Little did I know when I found, “Second Watch” how much enjoyment I’d get from all your books. I was like the kid in the candy store seeing how many you had written. But, now that I’ve read all of them (twice) I am waiting for your next book. Well, I guess I could read them through a third time. That’s how much I LOVE your writing. Thank you so much.
We are sending our applause across the miles as well. Celebrating you is a gift. Today’s blog, A day in the life is wonderful. Growing older is not for sissies, for sure.
I’ve been saying in recent days, I may have to grow older, but I don’t have to grow up!!
Your favorite Yuman!!!
Love it. Great story
I love all your blogs, but I do believe today’s is my favorite [so far]. Not only are you a celebrity, you are my favorite celebrity.
Considering I am a few years [87] older than you, I agree, growing older is not for sissies.
Blessing to you and Bill.
I love your down to earth blog. Best thing in the morning! Have been reading your books from sheriff Brodie on. Missed most of J P but thanks for the education on Arizona life
Just finished Girl From Devil’s Lake, sure have missed Joanna Brady. I thought the alternate perspective layout of the story worked quite well. Was the protagonist based on a actual sk case? Read very true to life. Keep up the steps!
No, he’s a figment of my imagination—a scary figment. I don’t use real cases in my books because real cases affect real people.
My reply to this didn’t post. No, Stephen Roper is not based on a real case. He’s a figment of my imagination.
What a wonderful post! Because I live in WA, I know the night you’re referring to, and it WAS nasty! Because of my MS, I also use a cane and understand your reluctance to cross the covered wires. It’s nice to be able to relate to my favorite author on a personal level. Thanks for sharing this.
I look forward to Fridays every week just to read your posts.
Jackie Olsen, Battle Ground, WA.
Happy Belated Birthday Judy! I hope you had a great day!
It doesn’t surprise me that being celebrated still surprises you. But, of course, you deserve it.
I wonder who won the auction lunch with you and where you’ll go and what you’ll have for lunch? Love to be a fly on the wall. No doubt it will be a wonderful experience for that person and hopefully for you too.
Sounds like you and your daughter were both spared any real damage by the fallen trees. Thank goodness. I always worry around here will all our trees during windstorms.
You are an ordinary person like everyone else doing our daily routines. But you are also extraordinary in your wonderful talent as a writer. I’m picturing you right now in your chair in your family room writing! Where will your imagination take you next?
I’m laughing now. That’s exactly where I am—in my writing chair!
Happy Birthday and many more! Keep on writing please and remember…the cane is your friend!!!
You may not see yourself as a celebrity, but your fans do…
You are an extraordinary person living an ordinary life…
God bless you and keep you safe.
Judith, we raised dachshunds when I was growing up. Dad was “just a small town country doc from Central Missouri,” as he like to say we had a small farm just outside the small town of Smithton. Caduceus Farm was the name. Our doxies were small, but not miniature, dogs. I remember one summer we had thirteen puppies and five adult dogs plus two German Shepherds, a Beagle, and the usual clowder of barn cats. It was a fun time.
You are a celebrity and a wonderful. Thank you for what you do and for all the fabulous books you’ve written. I’m just starting to read The Girl From Devil’s Lake and so far am throughly engaged. Thank you for writing it.
~Nancy
As your “elder”, 88, soon to be 89 in December…I am delighted to recommend fun, and to hear, you are doing fun things, and going fun places…,
That was an evening that did more for you than medication, naps, and all the ways we can spend a few hours.
A close friend my age wanders through antique stores for “fun”…has no room on her walls for one more painting. However, yesterday after a scary medical procedure she found an antique store to wander through, said it calms her. Yepppp, she found a bright colorful painting of flowers that made her happy. As she told me, she has zero space on her walls to hang one more thing, so, she chose to place it on a chest, lean it on the wall…and it looks JUST FINE!! Furthermore, the artist is a local 92-year-old woman…still creating beautiful art, her idea of fun.
Yes…I, too, am practicing the art of having fun, whenever possible.
Hi there. Long time no see. It’s the Mesa Library woman with Stage 4 colon cancer among other things. Wanted to share with you. After 2 hospitals stays and falling 3 times the 1st 2 on carpet the last on tile requiring 7 staples, I decided to write a book called What the Heck is a Colostomy. My son Will did all the legwork on publishing it on Kindle. It’s about my experience with “Gomer” my stoma. Wanted you to know that you influenced me to do it. Stay well Judy. Looking forward to your latest books!
That is taking lemons and turning it into lemonade at an Olympic level. Congratulations. I’m sure your encouraging words will be a blessing to many people in similar situations.
Reminder to self: Better to fall on carpet than tile
Happy Birthday!
Great story! I can relate to the cain thing! It’s become a.part of my life as well! Getting older (81) mis challenging?
Judy, of course you are a celebrity! Own the title. You certainly have earned it. Reading your blog is such fun and then reading the comments from your fans is even more fun. We all love and admire you and always await the next book.
I’m so excited you’re giving us a new mystery with JP and Twink! Boy, what a special share that was at the end of your Blog! ?? Happy Halloween Judy. God Bless you and your family
My sister and I certainly enjoyed your and Margaret Mizushima’s chat on Wednesday evening at Third Place Books. It was unique and very interesting.
You must be a celebrity of some sort as I know several people who read your books. Thank you for all you do!
My husband attended “book talks” by only four different authors with me. You were his favorite author and loved to go wherever you would be in the Burbank-Glendale area. He especially liked chatting with Bill as we waited our turn to have our book autographed. While our encounters have been extremely brief, I so enjoy your books, your weekly blog, and your responses. You writing entertains, and your replies are like words from a good friend. Thank you.
Your birthday is also my anniversary day.my husband has passed away but I have not remarried so to me it will always be my anniversary. So happy belated birthday and hope you have a wonderful and healthy year
Love your books and can’t wait to read your latest book.love from
Tucson arizona
I so enjoyed reading this, JA. It put a smile on my face and a thank you on my lips for such a privilege to “know” you.
<3
Belated birthday greetings!
Who i sTwBobink???
Happy belated Birthday, and yes, you truly are a treasure! Love your books!
Belated birthday greetings from me as well! I just recently discovered your blog and am enjoying the insights into your world. This year, I have been working my way through your books – up to date on Joanne Brady, and almost current with Ali Reynolds. I just picked up your new Brady book – can’t wait to get into it! As far as being “ordinary”, I think most of us have the same opinion of ourselves – and it is good for the ego to occasionally have someone show us that we are anything but ordinary! Take care.
Remember when they used to say, ” if you’ve got it flaunt it”? Well you’ve got it in spades, and are certainly a literary treasure far and wide. Impossible as it is, I wish I could have been there to join in on this celebration for you. So happy that it happened for you.
A belated happy birthday to you, and a happy Halloween. May all the tiny ghosts and goblins out and about be shepherded about by responsible adults… Dibs on all the bite sized Snickers and kit Kats my grand kids might score.
All the best to you and Bill till next week. God bless for being your warm, caring and compassionate self…
Jim W
Clever to request an escort down to your car and you undoubtedly gave the young man and his grandma a big thrill!!
Ceci
Here is my belated Happy Birthday! I’m grateful for you and wish many happy returns of the day.
One of your long-time readers!
Sounds like a wonderful night for a true literary treasure in every state!I can’t remember if I wished you a happy birthday so please accept a Happy belated birthday.
So enjoy your weekly blog – have read all of your books, some twice. Also have attended some of your book signings in Arizona. Also want to wish you a late Happy Birthday. I so enjoy your blog and books and look forward to the next book. We have visited Bisbee and did so because we had heard so much about it from your books. Keep writing.
Happy belated birthday. Those of us in our 80s need to make sure we celebrate them as vigorously as possible. Both my husband and I are huge fans of yours. My husband lived down in AZ for many years, so is especially interested in your books that take place there. Anyway, your reference to the doggie door … We rescued a ten pound Chihuahua, after our 107 pound Lab passed. We had a huge doggie door, but the Chi refused to use it after we altered it and made it small for her. My husband had to make it Extra-Large again. Do our dogs control us? Of, course!
You are special and down to earth. Thanks for
doing the work to share your thoughts.
Happ
I belated birthday, Judy. Looking forward to reading another Beau.
Hello!
What a fun night at the auction for you! You may be modest, but we who love your books know you are a treasure.
I hope you had a great birthday. I’ve been so busy dog-sitting that I don’t remember if I told you happy birthday.
This is fall yard clean-up season in Kansas, so I know what my future holds! Nothing got done when it was so darned hot.
Well, anyway, I’m glad to know you are still going strong.
Hello!
What a fun night at the auction for you! You may be modest, but we who love your books know you are a treasure.
This is fall yard clean-up season in Kansas, so I know what my future holds! Nothing got done when it was so darned hot.
Well, anyway, I’m glad to know you are still going strong.
I’m so happy you continue to enjoy writing. Always makes me happy to know you are working on another new book.