Once upon a time, I had the perfect writer's day. My alarm woke me up at 5:45 AM in the middle of a dream. Or I woke naturally when the sun glinted off the mirror and into my eyes. Or the cat stood in the doorway and meowed like the world was ending. I turned my head and … [Read more...]
Self Reflection
When I sit at my desk to write, pay bills, sign permission slips, find recipes, or try to get the cat off of my lap, I often look to my left to get lost in the view as I'm thinking. Thinking is hard. To my left is a window. I leave the curtains open so I can get distracted … [Read more...]
The Newest Year
Ladyface Peak in Agoura Hills, CA I'll go gently into 2018. I am recovering from loss and sickness, too much travel, too much to do. Everyone's load is heavy, and mine isn't special, but right now it's so close, so personal, so heavy. I lost my grandmother and one of my … [Read more...]
Love Song for a Matriarch
My Nana passed away two weeks ago. Her impact on my life and the person I've become was profound. With permission, I am sharing my Aunt Karen's eulogy, which she read to family and friends the day we laid her to rest. Thank you all for being here to pay tribute to, and … [Read more...]
What Are You Looking At?
I'm starting to lose feeling in my face. It's just as well. I have to be hammered to get through this. Apparently, you can still smoke in bars in Milwaukee, or at least in strip clubs. My eyes water from it. I rub them, coughing. When my vision clears, I see her. Sliding … [Read more...]