The Hope of Tomorrow

It had been an unsettling day, for some reason. No earthquakes or tornadoes or devastating news, but it seemed as if a spirit of evil or a spiteful sprite had been present. A prickling word here, a worrisome conversation there, an unsettled, fearful feeling of something just out of sight, something left un-done, something that […]

A New Start

I’ve never started any of my books with a prologue or flashback. I’m considering this for my work-in-progress. What do you think? The wind was wild that night, dashing spates of rain against the hardware store tucked between the grocery and bank. It hit the three men like cold, stinging needles as they stepped out […]

Backyard Birds

Poem about Backyard Birds Six squirrels, some robins, a rabbit or two— My backyard resembles a wildlife zoo. Snowbirds, titmice, cardinals, and doves— Lots of pretty feathered friends that everybody loves. But, wait! What is the matter with this pushing, scolding pair? Those rude and raucous bluejays are not inclined to share. The jays are […]

Once a Year?

  As I get older, it’s the small things that matter to me the most. As the song goes, Little Things Mean a Lot.  For a writer, it’s a treat to get a special Valentine from a happy reader. I remember the email I received from a fan of The Cemetery Club.  She enjoyed it […]

Weather and You

Does weather affect your moods or do you go sailing through the seasons undaunted by snow, rain, or cold? Do you prefer balmy temperatures year round and escape to sunny places when possible? Or, does cold weather give you energy and pep and you love to see a bountiful snowfall? Weather is changeable and atmospheric […]

Ah! The Wonder of It

I’ve always been a shy person. I mean, bashful! When I was a child, I was sure I didn’t know the learned and sophisticated things other people knew, so I remained quiet, not to disclose my lack. But now–ah, the wonder of it! I am young no longer. In fact, I’m older than most people […]