What I Learned About COVID 19 While in the Emergency Room

Here's what I learned about COVID 19 (the novel coronavirus) when I ended up in the local hospital emergency room this week. Coronavirus, or Going to the ER During a Pandemic Sometimes, I get really frustrated listening to the news and perusing social media. It seems as if everyone has a different opinion about the…

The Gift of Figs and Fig Trees

The first time I ate a fresh ripe fig, I was 28 years old and worked for a Manhattan financial service firm. One of my coworkers lived in Elmhurst, Queens, and he brought in fresh, ripe green figs, a variety called Italian Honey. Thus began my lifelong fascination with this ancient, keystone fruit. Fascination with…

The Best (Worst) Gift to Give

The story of the Birthday Mug and a few thoughts on the best - and worst - gifts you can give.

The Man in the Van

I've been silent lately, more so than ever in the past, on my various blogs. Part of this is the lurking feeling that everything that can be said about 2020 has been said: COVID virus, race riots, murder hornets. I'm waiting for Godzilla to rise from the Sea of Japan and a sharknado to arrive…

Guest Appearance on Ghost Chatter with Mary Ann Poll

I had a terrific time chatting with author Mary Ann Poll on her podcast! We talked about my true-life ghostly encounter, our pets, our books, and more books. You can enjoy the podcast here: Ghost Chatter with Mary Ann Poll.

Two Updates from Writer Jeanne Grunert

Two quick announcements and updates from writer Jeanne Grunert: Both of The Majek Family Mysteries - I Believe You and I See You - will be offered FREE as Kindle downloads, no strings attached, Thursday, March 19 through Saturday, March 21, 2020. I wanted to give my readers and fans something to take their minds…

Guest Writer for BACCA Literary

I'm the guest author this month over at BACCA Literary, a writer's group in Charlottesville. I share a story of poor judgment, bad taste, and creative sandwich making. Like Salami and Peanut Butter: AI and Editing Don't Mix. Enjoy!

Holding the Father’s Hand – Salesian Thought

Trusting the will of God is an important aspect of Salesian thought. My morning meditation today came from the book Set Your Heart Free - 30 Days with a Great Spiritual Teacher (St. Francis de Sales). I'll link to it at the end. Photo by S&B Vonlanthen on Unsplash Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me,…

When St. Francis de Sales Found Me

What is Salesian spirituality? It's a life-changing spiritual approach that's part of the Catholic mystical tradition. It follows the direction of one of the doctors of the faith, St. Francis de Sales. He's my patron, my spiritual guide, my guru. And, not coincidently, he's the patron saint of writers. He chose me as his daughter…

An Advent Wreath Just Like Me

"Not that old thing." My husband frowned at the tarnished brass ring. Foil fluttered from one of the four candle holders, a remnant of Advents past and my attempt to keep a candle in place. They never fit well in the cups. "Can't you buy a new one?" "This was my mom's." "I know, but..."…