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
Finding community in writing
During the pandemic I connected with a few other local writers for a virtual authors event. As a bit of a followup, we are happy to invite our friends and followers to visit with us, check out our books, and learn about what's coming next at the July 28 Wednesday Market in Historic Willamette. I … Continue reading Finding community in writing
The anniversary emotional rollercoaster
So many different anniversaries we note in these human lives we lead. We anticipate them, celebrate some and mourn others. We memorialize significant historical and celebratory events, the bad and good: D.Day, 9/11, the first pandemic lock down, the 1977 Blazer NBA win, February 14, 1859 Statehood. Some anniversaries remind us of accomplishments: we reminisce … Continue reading The anniversary emotional rollercoaster
E-bike: my two year review
Hard to believe that nearly two years ago I was dead set against ever purchasing an e-bike. Me, the mostly frugal individual that I am, would never spend more money when I already had a fine bike to both get to work on and get out for exercise. In fact, back then other earlier than … Continue reading E-bike: my two year review
What is Place?
I feel Place in my soul. The power of Place in my writing is almost impossible to explain. Writers combine place with time and events to “show not tell” more than a description: who or what is in this place, why are they there, how do they relate to what is happening in that moment … Continue reading What is Place?
Summer in the Willamette Valley
"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 rivers of the Willamette Valley. After cottonwoods cover banks and nearby roads with white fluffy fibers, mowers and tractors hew lawns and till soil. The milky fibers … Continue reading Summer in the Willamette Valley
A gift for Father’s Day
I haven’t before pitched My Music Man as a Father’s Day story, a gift to give a father or someone who’s missing a father or loves their own father. And yet, readers have told me my memoir is just that. Not that your father was like my father or that your relationship was like mine, … Continue reading A gift for Father’s Day
Make way for ducklings!
My solo early morning kayaking ventures gives me space to breathe, remember and practice gratitude. I began these prior to publishing My Music Man and not long after Dad died (see: My Boat and I). Although I am surprisingly eager to return to work and no longer practice 100% telework, I do know working at … Continue reading Make way for ducklings!
Dede's Books and blog 