From the day they are born, we spend a lot of time watching our kids. And delighting in that activity. Who didn’t watch their kids sleep when they looked so peaceful and angelic?

Like most parents, when our daughter was young, we hovered constantly, watching her roll over, crawl, take that first step, etc. During the school days, we watched countless soccer games, band concerts, piano recitals and horseback riding lessons. We had so much fun watching our daughter discover nature – taking her to Sea World, aquariums and zoos all over the country. There were parties and dances and awards ceremonies where her fun, her accomplishments, were our entertainment and pleasure.

Those years whiz by, and then come the big events: Watching her receive her high school diploma and her college degrees. A couple of weeks ago we had the joy of watching her get married! Wow! What an amazing day we had. I’m tearing up now just writing about it. So many smiles, so much happiness. Of course, she looked gorgeous in a fabulous “princess” dress and flowers in her hair. But there was a special inner glow. I think what’s different about watching this is seeing the way she and her new husband look at each other and knowing that she is loved and cared for. It’s the best feeling!

As I look through the photos, the smiles and happiness show up in every shot — and on every face. They were obviously contagious! The friends and family members enjoyed the joy of the couple, too. We took pictures, and danced, gave toasts and speeches, and through it all, the smiles were constant. For the mother of the bride and a romance writer, it was so fun watching the happy-ever-after unfold!

Have you had the opportunity to see your grown children find their life partner?

Most of my romances include an engagement. There are fun vineyard and beach venues where the hero pops the question. But now, I’m anxious to include a wedding in one! My newest romance is a holiday novella, so there’s no time for one—but you can tell one could be coming! Cookie Collision, from The Wild Rose Press, releases Nov. 3 and is available for pre-order now. It’s a sweet romance with a fun twist and lots of holiday cheer!

Here’s a tiny excerpt:

“Anyway, all the hustle and bustle of the Plaza makes for a festive holiday atmosphere. It’s pretty, and I–”

Alana lurched forward when a yellow light caused the horses to stop abruptly.

With quick reflexes, Justin grabbed hold of her. “Whoa, there.”

Bracing a hand on his knee, she sputtered hair from her mouth. “Thanks for the catch.” As she settled back onto the bench, Justin’s arm slid across her shoulders. She smiled inside. Well played, ponies. Well played.

Happy reading to all!

https://www.amazon.com/Cookie-Collision-Christmas-Cookies-Darlene-ebook/dp/B09FXHKZDH/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=darlene+deluca&qid=1633885048&s=books&sr=1-2

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/cookie-collision-darlene-deluca/1140147032?ean=2940162321422