Reading has always been one of my most favorite things. I still feel excited as I seek new books to read, whether at a favorite library, a neighborhood lending library, bookstore, or even an audiobook on Libby. I own more books than I may ever read, even though I’ve also spent time clearing my shelves. … Continue reading Our Connection to Departed Loved Ones Through Books
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
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
UPDATED: As of Wed., October 22 A Map of Her Own is now readily available on Amazon for the retail price of $16.95. Find it here. That being said, you can still find it under the other book buying options listed below. It's a good thing this wasn’t my first or second, or perhaps even … Continue reading A Map of Her Own: Testing My Limits
Yes, today is an exciting day! It is the release of A Map of Her Own, my fifth book set in the Pacific Northwest. Thank you to Bedazzled Ink Publishing for, once again, helping me get my stories out. So, I'll begun by encouraging you to check it out. If you have enjoyed any of … Continue reading Embracing Unexpected Encounters: The Power of Connection
Yes, I hear a few of you thinking: Didn't she just say she's retired? Yeah, yeah. It's just that I do always hope to give back. And as evidence in my sharing this piece, though it might be contrary to what some believe, I too can't turn my brain off. After catching up with a … Continue reading Total Worker Health: Idealism vs. Reality
This essay was first shared on Women Writers, Women['s] Books on September 29, 2025. Thanks to Books by Women for supporting authors and readers. When I began this story, I thought it would be my fifth rather than sixth book. But as other authors know to happen, life interrupted. I did know that Celia, a … Continue reading The Writing of A Map of Her Own
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
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
Dede's Books and blog 