My high school senior writing students who are applying to colleges using the early decision and early action options have been logging onto Zoom for the past few days, one after the other. I’m also working with dental applicants who are finishing time-pressed applications, along with law applicants who are striving to get their materials…
The Many Meanings of “Other”
Other? What does that mean? Other means not us—someone different. Someone who does not share common traits, beliefs, locations, or even species. Other is a word that comes up often when people want to judge someone harshly. He has other beliefs. She has other interests. Not ours. Against us. Not with us. These are the…
The Shoes That Have Carried Me
A list of the types of shoes I’ve worn over my life: Kid’s Keds. A favorite of mine when I was little, white and navy blue. Patent leather little girl shoes for special occasions like Easter or Christmas (in white or black). Flip-flops, which, when I was growing up, were referred to as “thongs.” Pink…
When Friendship Fills the Room: More Photos from the Vroman’s Reading at
My friend, Gary Moy, took loads of photos of me at my reading and book signing last week at the legendary Vroman’s Bookstore in Pasadena. I had twenty people there who came just to support me and my writing, which was such a sweet gift for them to offer. Thank you, everyone! Gary sent me…
Heart, Heart, What Do I Need To Know?
You love nature You are at peace when among the trees, plants, and animals It’s okay for you to rest It’s okay for you to relax It’s okay for you to breathe deeply Do nothing Stare at the sky Be four years old again Enjoy the moment Savor the moment Connect to the moment You…
Story Circle Network Virtual Writing Conference
I’m hosting this wonderful event tomorrow. Come join us! Here’s the link: https://www.storycircle.org/virtual-conference-2025/
A Major Reason I Am Excited to Visit Madrid
In just two weeks, I’ll be heading to Spain to host our annual Story Circle Network International Sightseeing Tour and Writing Workshop. While I am always eager to go on these incredible trips, I am especially excited to have the chance this time to see Picasso’s Guernica in person. This extraordinary painting about the atrocities…
25 Lies Writers Tell Themselves (and How to Fight Back)
One of the biggest challenges in writing is quieting the negative self-talk that can paralyze creativity. Below are 25 common thoughts that often surface—followed by a method I’ve discovered that helps combat these discouraging messages. Why I tell myself I shouldn’t write today: How to Combat Negative Self-Talk Set a timer, pick up your notebook…
When Words Take Flight
I have been editing students’ essays and stories today— switching out a word,a phrase,sometimes an entire sentence. Cutting repetitionwhile still honoringthe rhythm of the words. Searching for themes,motifs,tropesthat cast light across the page. Delighting when I stumble uponan apt metaphor,a succinctly stated feeling,a burst of action verbsthat make me want to run,dance,and play. And always…
Lighten Our Darkness
When I was a little girl, my mother came into my room every night before bedtime so we could say our prayers. She would sit on the edge of my twin bed while I lay under the covers with my head on the pillow. “Our Father, who art in heaven,” she would begin, and I…
20 Minutes a Day 