What Makes You Purr?

Molly Finds Her Purr, illustrated children's book, picture book, purr

© Shelley Steinle, illustrator.

A year ago I lost my purr.

At the time, I didn’t think of it that way. I was suffering the side effects of a concussion. All summer long I’d been unable to enjoy the activities that helped me feel fulfilled.

 

  • Limited screen time, which meant little to no computer/TV/Kindle/phone usage.
  • Reading was difficult because of eye strain and blur.
  • I mean, really, even thinking was a chore.

What’s a writer-woman to do? Continue reading

How Was Your Vacation, Erma?

sunrise, seashore, Ocean City NJRemember those first days of school, when the teacher asked you to write about your summer vacation? Did you focus on the days at the pool? The hours riding your bike aimlessly? Maybe your family drove for hours and hours to camp in mosquito-filled woods where the frog hums kept you up every night.

As I thought about my week vacation at the shore, Erma Bombeck came to mind. She found humor in the everyday calamities of life. Here’s a short synopsis of “what I did on my summer vacation.” Continue reading

The Dog Days of Summer

dog days of summer, golden retriever, dog loveFor years I’ve wondered why the best part of the year is called the “Dog Days of Summer.” Most dogs I know (and I’m close to many) aren’t enamored with summer. Too hot for their heavy fur.

My granddog Charlie loves being outside, but on a “dog day of summer,” he buries himself in the dirt (usually in my daughter’s well-loved rose garden) and hangs out there until he’s discovered and chastised. Continue reading