In the middle of July, I took a 3-day solo writing retreat. I love the Mississippi state park cabins because they’re cheap, air-conditioned, and secluded. I’m more interested in glamping than roughing it, especially when I’m tackling a difficult revision, and this was perfect. After wiping all surfaces with disinfectant and rewashing the dishes and…Continue reading Solo retreat, 2020 style
Finding the words
At this moment in history, my sincere hope is that 2020 will someday reflect a shift in our country toward recognizing what’s important: Life. Health. Family. Community. Sanity. There are three words that say more right now that any I can come up with: Black Lives Matter. For the time being, I am spending my…Continue reading Finding the words
Odd comforts
After being hit hard with coronavirus, New Orleans is slowly reopening. I am not. I’m still in hunker-down mode, which includes comforting my family and myself through a myriad of feelings and situations that exacerbate those feelings. We’re doing fine, and I’m cautiously optimistic about the future, but I function best when I take things…Continue reading Odd comforts
Festing At Home
With Jazz Fest canceled this year, I’m joining the rest of New Orleans (and outta town Jazz Fest fans) with WWOZ’s JazzFesting at Home. I’ve got the radio going, made a batch of Rosemint iced tea, and am planning/hoping to make some Jama Jama and plantains like the ones from Bennachin. Maybe even to find…Continue reading Festing At Home
Bright spot
Look at what arrived on my porch today! Kat Pigott is a fellow member of SCBWI here in Louisiana, and last fall she showed me proofs of her new picture book. I thought it was so cute and charming. The finished product with Tami Curtis’s beautifully expressive illustrations is even more magical! My thanks to…Continue reading Bright spot