Recently I spied a plea on social media from Dan & Louis Oyster Bar requesting supporters to stop on in for a meal. Like a lot of local businesses, they’re being challenged economically by the times, and perhaps, their location. But unlike other Portland restaurants, this one is the most sentimental for my family. After … Continue reading Support Local and Visit Portland’s Iconic Dan & Louis Oyster Bar
It never fails. Just when I'm unsure I have another blog in me, a new inspiration floats in. Today it is a memory about a set of glass goblets, and the Oregonian's front page story celebrating 175 years since its birth. Today's Oregonian article celebrates the anniversary of the first printing of the Oregonian. That … Continue reading From Newspapers to Glass Goblets: Creatively Weaving Fact into Story
In case you missed the news, Sunday, December 7 (from noon - 4 pm) is a perfect opportunity to support local, buy holiday gifts, visit downtown Portland, and celebrate the joy of reading. All this within the beautiful Oregon Historical Society's museum. This annual event is my favorite book event hands down. Invited authors must … Continue reading Celebrate Reading at the Oregon Historical Society’s Holiday Cheer
There is a let down after the initial excitement of releasing a new book. Perhaps it’s not spending those hours drinking tea at my dining room table, editing, writing, imagining. Or maybe it is recognizing (again) that most people still don't know about my book. And conceding that the bulk of readers never will. Even … Continue reading Navigating Post-Launch Blues
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 … Continue reading Take a Breath
I'm excited to be in conversation next Friday evening with my friends Maura Doherty and Kirk Charlton at Bold Coffee and Books. What a perfect venue to be in conversation about the topic of recovery and creativity. We hope you'll join us. Four years ago, I posted the blog "My Life and Alcohol." It begins … Continue reading Exploring Recovery, Creativity, and the Stories We Share
I never thought I'd make a special trip out to the Portland International Airport just to have lunch. Once or twice I'd headed out to Port of Portland offices at the airport in years past for work, but never for a meal. And of course, dozens of times over the years to fly elsewhere. But … Continue reading Why PDX Is the Must-Visit Airport in 2025
Yes, I added 2024 because I certainly hope we'll have Portland Book Week 2025! I offer buckets of thanks to the folks who made Portland Book Week happen: organizers, bookstores, authors and supporters, readers. I had much more fun than I anticipated. And, I too was exhausted from all the excitement even though I only … Continue reading Hurrah for Portland Book Week 2024!
The Portland Public Auditorium in downtown Portland, Oregon circa 1918, viewed from the west, across the intersection of SW 3rd & Market. Completed in 1917, the building was heavily rebuilt in 1967–68, when it was known as the Civic Auditorium, and currently is known as Keller Auditorium. Unknown author - Carey, Charles Henry. (1922). History … Continue reading Music halls and wig stylists, then and now
Dede's Books and blog 