Exploring Author Insights Through Book Groups

Yesterday I told a friend that my favorite author-related activity is joining book groups to discuss my books. I meant what I said. As much as I enjoy presenting book talks, usually with folks who haven't yet read my book, nothing compares to exploring a book's nitty gritty details. All of it: what people most … Continue reading Exploring Author Insights Through Book Groups

Musing about My Music Man: The Healing Power of Writing

My memorial altar. Notice the sobriety chip leaning against the typewriter. My first book, the memoir My Music Man, was published in October eight years ago. But now I look at it with fresh eyes. Never in my wildest dreams would I imagine how publishing that book would lead to my creation of five other … Continue reading Musing about My Music Man: The Healing Power of Writing

Why PDX Is the Must-Visit Airport in 2025

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

Sliding into summer

One of my favorite passages from my books is about summer. I don't imagine it to be my finest writing, but the imagery remains powerful for me. "Summer is true river time. Lazy summer emanates nature's special recipe: a potpourri of carp and cottonwood that transports any grown-up river kid back to childhood on the … Continue reading Sliding into summer

Spring forward with hope

What was this emotion I was feeling? The pink cherry blossoms dotted the sidewalk. I replaced my rain jacket with my down parka as the unseasonably cold wind struck my core. I wouldn't feel rays of sunshine on this stroll; raindrops left tracks on my glasses upon my return. And yet, I felt so much … Continue reading Spring forward with hope