Hello everyone. I recently came across a list I'd written while listening to a talk given by the talented and lovely Shannon Hargreaves (librarian and creator at The Cozy Bookery on Instagram). This was at the fabulous Mississippi River Readers Retreat over a year ago (which is coming up again this summer!) I liked the ideas she shared, so I've kept the note but never shared it. At the risk of … [Read more...]

I know many people watch a lot of movies over the holidays (both Christmas movies and other types as well). With my annual manuscript deadline falling in January, most of my movie-watching occurs after the holiday season traditionally ends. But once I reach that deadline, I reward myself with a few movies that have become treasured old friends. Here are five of my go-to movies I like to watch … [Read more...]

Goodness, it's a busy time of year, and a very busy week for me and I'm guessing for most of you as well. My Christmas will be a simple one, due to multiple deadlines. I haven't yet baked a single cookie or wrapped a present, but will be busy today, trying to catch up! Still, I wanted to pause a moment and wish a Merry and Blessed Christmas to all the Inspired by Life and Fiction readers and … [Read more...]

This past weekend I attended the annual Christmas event of the Jane Austen Society of North America's Minnesota chapter. We gather every December to honor Jane Austen, whose birthday is December 16th. This year we enjoyed a delicious brunch at an elegant country club, where we were entertained by a talented singer/songwriter named Monica Livorsi, who performed songs from her album, All About … [Read more...]