In my earliest draft of Beyond the Ripples, I had already determined several plot points. Yes, Annie would pitch the bottle in the Willamette River upstream of Wilsonville - how about Newberg? Yes, it would tumble over the Willamette Falls. And yes, Ernest would spy it somewhere along the Columbia River. As I imagined where … Continue reading From Deep River to Westport: then, now, fact and fiction
Author: dedemontgomery
Journaling for well-being
I hope you consider joining me as I talk about Journaling for Well-being and Personal Growth, hosted by the West Linn Public Library on November 2. But before I get to that, a bit of background. And yes, a few stories. Several years ago I was invited to talk to three third grade classes at … Continue reading Journaling for well-being
Book birthday: heart, heritage and privilege
My debut book and memoir, My Music Man, was released by Bedazzled Ink four years ago this month. My! It has felt to have been so much longer. Acknowledging that, I realize it was only a few years before that Dad died, me putting bits of what I shared at his Celebration of Life into … Continue reading Book birthday: heart, heritage and privilege
Paddling, mournfully I muse
I went for a paddle this morning. Knowing it to be one of the last warmer fall mornings. Relaxing a bit, knowing I couldn’t get in the water as early as I do in the summer with daylight lapsing, yet still one of the only boats on the water. Not being much of a cold … Continue reading Paddling, mournfully I muse
My life and alcohol
My inner voice has been re-crafting this blog for some time, stopping when my outer voice tells me no. Is it because I feel a bit of an imposter? Yes, my dad was an alcoholic, but my childhood was so good compared to many others. Is it my recognition that many of us have stories related … Continue reading My life and alcohol
From lupus to dementia: the art of healing and acceptance
No, this isn't really about COVID. Although, having a loved one acquire breakthrough COVID, after already having it once, does have me wondering more about disease predisposition. In all the controversies of today, some believe positivity keeps all evils away: even COVID-19. What I know, is that it doesn't. For after all, whether a disease … Continue reading From lupus to dementia: the art of healing and acceptance
It’s time for more
It's time I stopped beating around the bush! Plying you with, what I hoped to be, enticing details: a signed contract, title and book cover. Perhaps you'd actually like to know what Humanity's Grace is about! Now that Bedazzled Ink has created a page for this to-be-released January 2022 title, I figure it is time. … Continue reading It’s time for more
Gloveless and out of juice
I found two reasons to return to my office, once it was allowed earlier this summer. Those of us working as "non-essential" or "telework able" for large healthcare institutions aren't wanted onsite during these troubled times of infection and overcapacity. One reason I returned at two days per week –although I'm appreciative to have flexible … Continue reading Gloveless and out of juice
Moving on: out beyond
Today marks one week since our mom's Celebration of Life. It was beautiful, authentic and shared by almost seventy people who loved her dearly. As with dad, though perhaps for different reasons, this event was scheduled months after she died. And though everyone makes often personal decisions on whether or not or how to hold … Continue reading Moving on: out beyond
It must be said
I woke up this morning knowing I must write about this. Usually I feel the rush of words dictating my next blog at other times: during a walk, as I cycle to work, even while reading a book. Not this time. This is tough to write, a topic some may say best for intimate conversations. … Continue reading It must be said
Dede's Books and blog 