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Happy 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…
Read MoreApril Showers Bring Independent Bookstore Days!
April 27th – National Independent Bookstore Day! Here in Snohomish County, we really love our local bookstores and celebrate for a week! April 20th – 27th. Five participating shops will be hosting special events and promotions. I’m excited to be signing books at two different locations. Please stop by and say hello! Main Street Books…
Read MoreHow To Travel Without Leaving Your Couch
It’s the season for snowdrops peeking up from winter soil – harbingers of warmer weather to come. My family loves to pin down the year’s travel plans around now – purchasing plane tickets and making hotel bookings. In April, my husband and daughter will visit family in Belgrade, Serbia while I stay home for a…
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