For most of my adult life, I’ve been engaged in the study of World War II. I wrote seven fictional books (two for adults and five for children) based on interviews with men and women who contributed to the war effort in various ways. It’s impossible to be a historian and not wonder, when talking...
I was once asked by a very nice homeschooling mother if my children’s books incorporated religious messages. “Not specifically,” I said, “but they do address issues of strong character, like being honest, responsible, caring, courageous, thoughtful, loyal, and hard working.” She felt those were messages her children would benefit from hearing, and she bought my...
It’s time to write my blog post (tick) But I can’t think of a single thing to say this week (tick) It’s probably just the foggy brain from this sinus infection (tick) Oh, what does it matter anyway? The world does not need another blog post (tick) But you usually enjoy writing your blog posts....
I’m sorry to admit, Halloween has never been my favorite holiday. But I give it due credit for being one of our most creative holidays. Witness all the clever yard displays in your neighborhood, or the variety of spooky or adorable appetizers popping up on your social media feeds, or the myriad Halloween-themed crafts you...
My husband showed me a TikTok video the other day of a chicken high-tailing it across a field headed for the henhouse, while a hawk swoops down repeatedly trying to snatch it. The people filming the video are too far away to help, but they’re screaming at the chicken. “Go, RUN, go, go, go!” Some...
As a creative soul, I love digging deep into the paradoxes of modern existence. Here are a few I’ve identified for myself and circle back to all the time. Can you relate: To ask people to avoid saying a derogatory word, you must first say the word. To let people know you’re taking a break...
When I was young and listening in as the adults talked, I heard a common refrain, “Nothing surprises me anymore.” Usually, it referred to any type of behavior or trends with which they disagreed. As a kid, though, I found the expression kind of sad. I mean, surprises were the best thing ever. In my...
I’m far, far from being a health and wellness guru, but I do try to take care of myself. Over the years, many people have asked me about some of my healthy living routines or my writing schedule, but when I start to lay it all out for them, most people shrug it off and...
They say with age comes wisdom. Which is why we so often like to brag about the advice we’d give our younger selves. But lately, I’ve been wishing I could have lunch with my 22-year-old self not to lecture her, but to connect over shared concerns and longings. I think my 22-year-old self (let’s call...
Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.” Ah, Eleanor, nothing will ever knock you off your perch as my hero, but I’ve got to challenge you for a moment on this one . . . I’m convinced even great minds occasionally discuss events. I’m sure, for...