Category Writing

The Simple Stuff

So much deprivation over the last year has left me feeling disconnected. The lack of a social life. The inability to go anywhere or do anything. Even eating in a restaurant seemed hazardous. Or hugging someone. After attending a crowded art show opening in May, I kind of gathered the courage to venture out once […]

The Monster In The Basement

Even though it was July 4, I still had laundry to do. Sunday’s the day I usually change the sheets and wash the towels, plus throw in a few other items, if need be. The picnic I planned to attend got shoved to Monday, which was just fine by me. The day was cool and […]

To Begin Again…Again

Here I am, on a recent Saturday at a Hudson Valley gallery, posing in the sculpture garden. It was pretty darn hot, and I was positively aglow with dew. Though somewhat disoriented without a mask, me and a fellow friend attended an opening. So strange to witness a smile without imagining it through squinted eyes. […]

Anticipation

I go for my COVID-19 second shot on Wednesday. Can’t wait. My boss and I already arranged to take the day off afterwards (she goes on Tuesday) so we can recuperate. Since it’s a common side effect to feel lousy within 24 hours of the second dose, we figured we’d probably need time under a […]

The Endgame

So this is me, back in 2016, just before my life took a left turn. I went to a Random House Open House, and, if you haven’t been, well, it’s something. Was so excited to be there my sister took a picture of me. Equally excited was the security guard, who was trying to stop […]

Self-Isolation

I’m sure I’m not the only one to say this, but I’ve been spending too much time alone. There’s lots to be said about the solitary life, such as it creates self-reflection, gives one the chance to clear out the basement, or cook odd food combinations for dinner, like split peas and licorice. Mind you, […]

Many Happy Returns on the Day

I gained another year the other day. It wasn’t by choice; I had little say in the matter. But I did choose to make it a bit special, even if I was the only attendee at my birthday bash. I’ve been isolating because COVID is raging in these parts, and after a scare at Christmas, […]

Winter Wonder Land

It snowed here last week and I still can’t get used to the sight of it. Which is strange, because in earlier years, we’d have tons of it by now. But over the past ten years it seems that the white blanket that began to coat the hills and valleys has stopped, to be replaced […]

Gone Missing

I’ve not written much over the course of the past few months, mainly because I’ve been rushing to finish what started to be an edit but wound up being a major rewrite of my book. I’m almost there. Just a few last things and it’ll be ready to send off to my agent. But first, […]

At A Loss…

I sat here in front of the computer for a very long time, not exactly sure, really, trying to think of something to write. And it’s not like I’m uninspired or anything. It’s just that whatever I put down doesn’t seem to be adequate in every sense of the word. And I apologize in advance […]