Monthly Archives: August 2012

Big Boy’s Toys

Big Boy’s Toys

Finally the departure morning of the long, awaited sailing trip together up Desolation Sound arrived. Two sailboats, two couples, and two weeks ahead cruising the Pacific Northwest coastline bathed in an August heatwave. Sounds ideal, right? Extensive preparation for this trip to “the wilds” was completed.  It all began with the purist sailor, Ryan (always indignant over the power boats and their noisy gadgets in anchorages) purchasing a honking, massive Honda generator.  Yes, a big boy’s toy. The justification, you ask? He could proudly brag he’d be brewing his wife a Starbucks Pike Roast on a newly purchased Keurig. Yes, another big boy’s toy. After all, Desolation Sound might actually be desolate!

Nothing matched the frenzied excitement caused … Read the rest

Maeve Binchy’s Writing Advice

Maeve Binchy’s Writing Advice

Maeve Binchy, an entertaining Irish author, passed away recently and I wondered how many people around the world were touched by this woman through her books. Whenever I was on holidays and had a chance to pick up a book for an extended time, Maeve Binchy novels were always my first choice.  One could count on the story being set in Ireland, memorable  characters, and it would be an enjoyable, light read.

Before starting my second career as an author of Middle Years novels, I purchased Maeve Binchy’s ‘how to’ book, entitled, The Maeve Binchy Writers’ Club.  This book is a collaborative effort (like guest blogging) with contributions from authors, poets, editors and publishers.  It served as a road … Read the rest