I love to be involved in interviews. I have friends who hate to be subjected to the “dreaded” author interview. Not me: no question is too weird, too off topic or bizarre. It’s most likely because I’m Irish: we have an opinion about everything, will discuss anything, and we never meet a stranger who we aren’t soon chatting up about all things political, religious, or pop culture-esque. It’s in our DNA – it’s just science. Over the years, I’ve had interview questions that have stuck with me. I … [Read more...]
How to Survive a Blizzard Vacation
It will come as a surprise to few that I’m not a big fan of winter. This Florida gal just doesn’t have the chops to hang out in the snow. I moved to Virginia in 1995 and 8 months out of the year I love being a Virginian. But from December through March, Mother Nature can make me downright homesick for ‘ol FLA. “Oh, but that heat!” they say. “The humidity!” they moan. Yeah, well, you don’t have to shovel humidity. I’ve tried to enjoy what winter has to offer. I’ve attempted to ski – twice. … [Read more...]
Do You Know Why You Write?
Why someone puts pen to paper or fingertips to keyboard is an extraordinarily personal matter. If you ask ten people why do you write?, you’re likely to get ten very different answers. Because I write mostly creative nonfiction, my writing is particularly personal. I’ve often been asked: why do you share such intimate details of your life in your books, for all the world to see and read? My common reply: I know, that answer is kinda glib. The truth is, on any given day I’m writing for reasons … [Read more...]
To All the Days Here and After
Oh, we Irish do love our toasts. We never miss an opportunity to wax poetic about the past, the here and now, and the future. Especially this week, as we welcome 2016, I’m reviewing my repertoire of go-to ditties. I thought I’d share a few of my favorites, just in case you find yourself in need of a good tribute. Image provided courtesy of The Commons/Flickr: … [Read more...]
2016: The Year of the Great Shed
Do New Year's resolutions work for you? Nope? Me neither. My ever-present dedication to lose ten lbs, eat less junk food, exercise more, floss daily, and stay out of the sunshine unless I’m wearing SPF1000 sunscreen, somehow always seems to go by the wayside by no later than February 1st. Therefore, for 2016, I’m trying a different approach: I’m creating a doable list devoted to things I can shed/toss/throw away. Who’s with me? Image Provided Courtesy of Morgue File: … [Read more...]
How I Found My Midlife Tribe
This week, I did something I’ve been waiting to do since April 13th, 2014: I registered for the 2016 Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop (EBWW). EBWW only happens every other year and when the last one ended in 2014, I knew I would be going back in 2016. Why? Because in 2014 I found my tribe of funny, big-hearted, midlife women. And in midlife, it can be tough to find your peeps. In your earlier years, life readily presents opportunities for tribe building. For example, high school, for all its … [Read more...]
The Dirty Dozen Babes of the Blogosphere
As Thanksgiving approaches, I’m reminded of how grateful I am for a family who loves and supports me, a husband who puts up with me, and a son who makes me laugh every day. I have the added joy of announcing that just this week my son Jimmy attained the status of ABD – “All But Dissertation” – in his trek toward doctorhood. Proud mama is bursting with pride as Jimmy moves ever closer to #MYSONTHEDOCTUH! Image provided courtesy of … [Read more...]
Life Lessons from An Irishman
Today, October 2nd, is my dad’s birthday. It’s kind of a big deal, being that it’s number 75, but I think he wants to keep it a bit low key. That’s alright, it’s his day, he’s entitled to celebrate any way he wants. However, as his daughter, I get to shout: Image provided courtesy of MorgueFile: Image URI: http://mrg.bz/L4mLzi What was happening back in the year Dad was born? Well, let’s see: the first social security benefits were paid (oh, I know Dad is loving this one!); the first … [Read more...]
Once Again, With Feeling
Please indulge this announcement: this week we gave birth to a 212 page bouncing baby book! I say “we” here because it was a group effort–a team of editors, proofers, designers, reviewers, hand holders, tequila drinkers, and one crazy publisher–who wrapped this little bundle in an intriguing cover and presented her to the world. I’m a bit biased, but I think she’s beautiful. World, we present to you, Magic Fishing Panties! This isn’t our first rodeo–we published I Was In Love With a Short … [Read more...]
You’re In My Spot
It happens at the beginning of each summer. Right about the time we’ve perfected our routine, established a rapport with the instructors, and staked our claim to our preferred spot in the room, they swarm in and wreak havoc upon our community. Image provided courtesy of Pixabay, http://pixabay.com/en/fish-sea-ocean-fish-swarm-22646/ I am of course describing the coeds who invade the gym and our exercise classes each summer when they return home from college. We middle-aged gals have … [Read more...]
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