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A Light Exists in Spring
A Light Exists in Spring By Emily Dickinson A light exists in Spring not present on the year at any other period—when March is scarcely here. A color stands abroad on solitary fields that science cannot overtake but human nature feels. It waits upon the lawn, it shows the furthest tree upon the furthest slope…
Read MoreShadows In Paradise
HBO’s – The White Lotus – Season Three One of the things The White Lotus captures so well this season—set in Thailand—is the quiet but ever-present dissonance between its wealthy American guests and the culture surrounding them. Having lived in Thailand, I recognize the subtleties: the way Western entitlement brushes up against deeply ingrained customs, the moments…
Read MoreHappy Valentine’s Day!
Why Reviews Are an Author’s Best Valentine Reviews are like valentines for writers—small but heartfelt messages that mean the world. Each one, whether a few words or a paragraph, is a sign that our stories have reached someone, moved them, or lingered in their thoughts. This February, if you’ve loved a book, consider leaving a…
Read MoreNew Year, New Stories A Sneak Peek at My Next Book
Happy New Year, Friends! There’s something magical about the turning of a year—a sense of fresh beginnings, new possibilities, and the joy of meeting kindred spirits. To those I met during the holiday season, welcome! This is where I share glimpses of my writing life, reflections on creativity, and stories inspired by the rich tapestry…
Read MoreSeason of the Longest Night
Finding Comfort in Hard Times One of my favorite Leonard Cohen quotes is: “There is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.” Lately, I’ve been feeling a bit “cracked” myself. With global crises and personal health challenges piling up, it’s all too easy to linger in the shadows. But I’m making a…
Read MoreGreetings From Myanmar
Myanmar continues to face immense challenges as the civil war drags on, with military crackdowns and armed resistance throughout the country. Inflation and power cuts exacerbate the hardship, yet here in Yangon, life seems to continue as usual with bustling shopping malls and full restaurants creating a surreal vibe. I was happy to visit 50th…
Read MoreHungry Ghosts and Sapphires
September Inspiration I’m thrilled to share this month’s creative “threads” with you. By diving into different cultural and artistic traditions, I uncover fresh insights that I hope will add depth to my storytelling. I hope you find some inspiration along the way! Sacred Sapphires If you were born in September, sapphire is your special…
Read MoreAugust Inspiration – Following the Thread
I am captivated by the intricate designs of medieval illuminated manuscripts and the vibrant patterns of Burmese tapestries. These art forms, though rooted in different cultures, reveal striking similarities in their symbolic depth and meticulous craftsmanship. As an author, I find inspiration in these connections, weaving narratives that bridge past and present, East and West.…
Read MoreWas Catherine the Great, Empress of Russia, duped?
Empress Catherine the Great’s crown, created in 1762 for her coronation, features an impressive 4,936 diamonds, 75 pearls, and a large, crimson spinel – sitting like a massive cherry atop a priceless sundae. This jewel was the inspiration for the ruby in my book – The Worth of a Ruby. Historically, rubies and spinel were…
Read MoreWhat Do Farmer’s Markets And Monsoons Have In Common?
They both run from May to October! Most Thursday afternoons, you’ll find me at my local Snohomish Farmer’s Market, not just shopping, but engaging in a vibrant community. Here, I connect with farmers, artisans, and fellow food enthusiasts, all united by our shared love for fresh, local produce. Local markets are not just a way…
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