Last summer I blogged about the "Portland and Columbia River souvenir playing cards" I was gifted by my Boston friend Jack. Upon the advice of a staff member at the Oregon Historical Society, I scanned the 52 cards, each with a unique image. The cards hold a copyright date of 1909 by the U.S. Playing … Continue reading Oregon’s past in a deck of cards
Reflections on #MeToo
When I was in the midst of writing my memoir, My Music Man, conversations about sexual harassment - at work and beyond - were there, nagging and being ignored, as they have been for much of my life. #MeToo hadn't yet launched: encouraging nearly every woman I know to share her story into this bottomless … Continue reading Reflections on #MeToo
An apology: To geologists everywhere
Before I get on to Thanksgiving, there's something I need to say. But first, a story. It was during my first job out of graduate school when I encountered my worst boss ever. One specific incident triggered something new: a compulsive fear of printing (posting, in today's world) anything with an error. Back then, I … Continue reading An apology: To geologists everywhere
Maps for Mary
My good friend Mary sent me a short text the other day while she was in the middle of reading My Music Man. "I need a map in the book!! 2nd edition!" I have to be honest: At the time, I was quite satisfied to produce both a family tree and an organized list of … Continue reading Maps for Mary
The Falls: History, stories and lamprey
Willamette Falls. Last week was sprinkled with references and stories about this powerful local cascade. Our Willamette Falls. Its beauty and history poked and prodded at me so many times during the week. Each moment linking the past with the now. It began with an unforgettable memorial service for our dear friend, Chris, in the … Continue reading The Falls: History, stories and lamprey
Inscriptions: Then and now
I'm learning. First lesson this week: Duo author book readings are awesome. Thanks to Joseph Haeger for partnering with me at Auntie's Bookstore in Spokane - how did they know our work would interrelate so beautifully? After Joseph read his new essay, it was as if the stars had lined up. The essay was a … Continue reading Inscriptions: Then and now
Lessons from a book launch: Friends, Support, Love
Thursday night was the best night I have had in such a long time. To those who say - it's your party, make it fun: you are right. I was high for hours, and although it left me on short sleep the next day, I had no doubt how very worth it, it was. However … Continue reading Lessons from a book launch: Friends, Support, Love
Anticipation: Book launch…finally
I know a lot about some things - but frankly, my knowledge about publishing a book was pretty non-existent before I began this writing adventure. And as I prepared to sign that contract, after Skyping with the publisher in what felt like dream, I went looking for tips from others. I looked for guidance, not just … Continue reading Anticipation: Book launch…finally
In appreciation of the Stafford Hamlet
There have been downsides to being married to an elected official. They all pale, though, when compared to one big gift: the people I've met. And our good friend Richard Fiala is one of those at the top of the list of people we're grateful to know. Richard and I can lose complete track of … Continue reading In appreciation of the Stafford Hamlet
Family, friends, mountains…and moments
My mind drifts between two storylines - that of My Music Man, as I perch between excitement as I plan my book launch and worry regarding whether books will be released in time - and my still unfolding novel, Beyond the Ripples. As I backpacked earlier this week for the first time since breaking my … Continue reading Family, friends, mountains…and moments
Dede's Books and blog 