I loved the book, Hanna's Ascent by fellow Bedazzled Ink Publishing author Jayna Sheats. That's the take-away here, but some background first. Ten years and five books into this publishing episode of my life, I’m appreciative of the authenticity and mission of my publisher, Bedazzled Ink Publishing. Way back when seeking a publisher for My … Continue reading Celebrating Bedazzled Ink: The Power of Women’s Voices
As I began drafting this blog – and was patting myself on the back for the completion of my audiobook – I began to sing Eric Carmen's 1970s pop song, All By Myself. Curious to listen to this tune I haven't heard in ages, I found it online, sat back and closed my eyes. I … Continue reading Creating (Another) Audiobook: A Tribute to Mom
I’ve been thinking about the importance of female friends, particularly as we age. Today I honor my Birthday Bestie. But before I get into detail about that, I too honor the dear friends I have in my life. I feel fortunate in friendship. As I chat about A Map of Her Own in my recent … Continue reading Birthdays and Besties: The Power of Female Friendships Over Time
I adore children's books. In fact, I have to remind myself whenever I'm in the children's section of a book store to temper myself. Of course, that doesn't mean I don't buy books –only that I'm extremely picky. I don't often blog about books written by others, but today is different as I share two … Continue reading Exploring Books That Delight Kids and Adults Alike
Keynote talk at the 2023 ASSP WISE (Women in Safety Excellence) event at Oregon Governor's Occupational Safety and Health Conference. My mom was a bit younger than I am now when she retired from her adjunct faculty position at Marylhurst. It was a difficult choice as she loved what she did, but an autoimmune illness … Continue reading Embracing Retirement: A Journey of Growth and Mentorship
In May 2014, two months before Dad died, my parents joined me as I presented a talk at OHSU on behalf of Oregon's Safety Break for our Institute's science seminar. It was a day to advocate for workplace safety, and I created a slide deck with images purchased from John Klatt, founder of Old Oregon … Continue reading Grieving the Loss, Embracing the Launch: My Parents’ Impact on My Writing
Until last year, listening to audiobooks was something I rarely did except when on a long drive. I would have to backtrack or rewind many times as my mind drifted to one thought or another. Once on a trip to Missoula, Russ and I listened to Invasion of the Body Snatchers enroute, and a collection … Continue reading Embracing Audiobooks: A Journey of Discovery
Near Pine Creek in the Wallowas. Yes, it’s been exactly one year since I was laid off from what I know now, though didn’t know then, my final chapter of traditional employment. While it took me a month to recover from my surprise and frustration, I know now how much I’ve gained. And how fortunate … Continue reading Wandering and the Gift of Time
Recently, I met a new friend who is on the path to recovery. "Sober for a year," they said, a smile sad and proud at the same time. Because we were talking about all things books, I shared with them my favorite page from my first book and memoir, My Music Man. After they read … Continue reading From Memoir to Audiobook: Celebrating Healing and Connection
Creating a writing community of close friends was not one of those things I imagined in my future when I was young. And yet, it is something I’m deeply grateful for, especially in this time of midlife. Don't get me wrong, I spent a lifetime journaling, reading, even writing a few poems. But it was … Continue reading Empowering Stories: The Strength of Writing Communities
Dede's Books and blog 