This blog by fellow Aussie romance author, Barbara Hannay, re the rebuilding following the devastation caused by Cyclone Larry and the donation of romance books to the Innisfail library, gladdened my heart. Hope it does yours!

No, I'm not about to name mine...although now I've typed that subject line, I'm thinking about it. Trouble is, I don't keep a reading journal or even a list of what I read, and I can barely remember what I read in December (probably nothing) let alone earlier in the year. But those of you who do keep track or who have a memory, might be interested in the eHarlequin Reader's Choice Awards. Check out the books already nominated and if you feel so inspired, add your own nomination -- although you need to sign up as a community member (pain-free, I promise) to participate. There were so many brilliant books published by Harlequin's many imprints and series lines in 2006. This is your chance to nominate what you think were the best!

One book nominated severally -- Drop Dead Gorgeous, by Linda Howard -- definitely rates as one of my favourites (although I think it'll be ineligible in the eHQ poll, because it's another publisher.) I read this in one gulp. Blair's voice and view on life is just irresistible. And Wyatt is no slouch either. Hot and hilarious. Anyone else read this one? Any other one book that stands out in your memory from 2006?

I'm ba-ack...and just in time to celebrate Australia Day, my country's national day, a day to celebrate what's great and fabulous and wonderful about Australia and being Australian. One of those things is our laidback lifestyle, so most Australians spend this public holiday kicking back with family and friends, maybe at the beach or the lake or around a backyard pool.

Some communities host organized fun events--parades and fireworks, sporting events and concerts--as well as the more formal events which include flag-raisings, citizenship ceremonies and presentation of community achievement awards. These local ceremonies often include a keynote speech by an "Australia Day ambassador," that title a recognition of the individual's contribution to Australian society. One such ambassador is romance author Valerie Parv.

We also acknowledge Australians who have made extraordinary contributions to our society. In 2007 the "Australian of the Year" is Professor Tim Flannery, scientist, environmentalist, writer, for his contributions to the environment and sustainability practices.

Why do we celebrate our national day on January 26? Because on this day in 1788 Captain Arthur Phillip took formal possession of the colony of New South Wales. Cool little piece of family history...or possibly legend, because who knows if this is true or not? Anyway, apparently one of my ancestors had the dubious honour of carrying said Captain Phillip ashore. Apparently naval captains didn't much like getting their feet wet. Even more interesting is that he and his wife--Henry and Susannah Kable--were part of the first (group) wedding ceremony at the new colony. Henry and Susannah Kable were transported to Sydney as convicts, along with their illegitimate child who was born in Norfolk prison. They were able to travel together on the "Friendship" in the First Fleet due to the intervention of Lord Sydney. He received representations from the citizens of London about the plight of the young couple and their child, otherwise they would have been separated. Yay Lord Sydney, a true hero.

To celebrate this special day--and my return to blogland--I've put together a fabulous collection of Aussie goodies which one lucky reader will win. I'm still finalising how-to-enter details. They will be posted right here on this blog next week so keep on visiting for your chance to win. Meantime, Australians all let us rejoice, for we are young and free...