It's been so long, you may not remember, but when Tammy introduced me last month, I mentioned some of the things I was passionate about, and asked you to share some of the things you're passionate about. Most of you were too busy sending warm, friendly welcomes to take the time to do that. But today, I'd sincerely love to know! What floats your boat? What makes your heart sing? What makes you feel … [Read more...]
Small Things. Big Rewards.
I dedicated my latest book, The Dancing Master, to my own dance teacher: In honor of Aurora Villacorta ballroom dance instructor at the University of Illinois for more than twenty years. Thanks, Miss V. Your lessons are forever with me. Dance steps, yes, but so much more—etiquette, manners, respect, and grace. Your classes were the most enjoyable of my college years. I will never forget … [Read more...]
Just Do It
A friend recently told me he had an idea for a book and planned to write it after he retires in 10 years. I frequently hear comments like that, often about writing or some other dream for the future. “Someday, I would love to…” Followed by the excuses: “My kids are involved in too many activities right now; things are really crazy at work; I don’t have a calm, quiet place to write; I don’t have … [Read more...]
The Kissing Bridge: Amish Fiction Release!
It was a beautiful summer day when my family and I climbed into a horse-drawn wagon and were taken on a ride through the hills of Northwest Montana. Our tour guide had grown up Amish. Ora Jay has a way with horses. He and his wife Irene also have a way of telling stories. They once told me about a time when they and their Amish friends took a wagon ride from Montana to Idaho. It took them two … [Read more...]
It all happened on a dare
A neighbor recently asked me what inspired me to write novels... I didn’t have to think long to recall the exact moment that my journey in novel writing began. It all happened on a dare, really. From my husband, Joe. But first, as we say, some backstory… In 1995, my mother-in-law, Claudette Harris Alexander, gave me a book she thought I would enjoy––I took one look at the cover and … [Read more...]