This October of 2025 has been a big month. In addition to my usual October Celebrations like my birthday (this year 64) and wedding anniversary (37!), I published a book (my sixth). Too, although recently claiming retirement, I agreed to present a keynote and session at an early October industrial hygiene conference. I too struggle with all that is going on around us. One daughter worries she won’t be reimbursed for client services she provides, while the other spent days off recovering from working eighty hours in a single week as a healthcare provider. And yet, I don’t worry how we will pay for this week’s groceries or next months rent or mortgage. I join protests and send money to the food bank and try to figure out where an email or phone call might make a difference.

I too get the privilege of spending a day a week with a fresh new spirit. We collect chestnuts and fallen leaves and watch squirrels play ring-around-the rosie in fir and maple trees. He keeps me giggling and being in the moment. And gratefully exhausted at the end of Gaga Friday.

In all this, I continue to market A Map of Her Own and revel in the joy I’ve found in writing. I find myself wiser and more realistic with each book published. I still love my story about Celia and Emma and Paul. I too know my book is only one of millions published each year, adding to a massive, ever growing inventory. Enough choice for everyone who can find access. All I can do, is share what I’ve got!

Looking ahead

November 14 Book Talk

My final scheduled area book talk is coming up on Friday, Nov. 14 at 7 pm at the wonderful Bold Coffee and Books. I’m excited to be in conversation with Carolyn Dasher, author of American Sky. We hope you find time to join us. Come a bit early to grab a snack or drink.

December 4 Virtual Book Group

Next up is a virtual conversation with Pam Walaski. Pam and I met in person years ago as members of the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) COPA (Committee on Professional Affairs). Gratefully we have stayed in touch since then, and Pam has read and reviewed several of my books. As I began planning my book events I thought about all the longtime colleagues I have afar, and with themes around work (even including one workplace fatality) it seemed like a fitting thing to do. Both my professional colleagues and those not in the safety field are invited to join us. We encourage you to read the book as there is likely to be a spoiler or two. I may reconsider this but at the moment I am not planning to record this for privacy reasons.

December 7 Holiday Cheer at Oregon Historical Society Museum

I seal up 2025 with my favorite event: the Oregon Historical Society’s Holiday Cheer on Sunday, December 7, from noon to 4 pm. This is a fabulously fun event and provides access to dozens of 2025 released books by Oregon authors. I will have A Map of Her Own along with copies of my older books.

A big THANK YOU to friends and supporters joining recent events in West Linn, Portland and Eugene. I find it essential to be in community in these moments, and oh, what fun!

Yes, that’s more than enough. I do have plans beginning for 2026, including an event in Astoria. But for now, find a good book or two to keep you company. And remember – authors appreciate readers sharing book reviews.

P.S. I am curious what folks think about my audio version of My Music Man. I released it over the summer without a lot of fanfare but you can find it through all the usual audiobook platforms (including Audacity and Libro FM.) Learn more.