One month ago today, my dad slipped away for his tee time in heaven, surrounded by nearly all of his family (we’re talking 4 kids plus spouses, nine grandkids plus spouses, ten great grands, and one devoted wife). We’ve now celebrated his life with a room overflowing with people he’d touched — and teased!… Read more »
My mother in law, Carolyn “Kelly” Larson, passed away a few weeks ago; her memorial service is this Saturday. So I’ve been thinking a lot about her. She was a child of the Depression, growing up on a poultry farm in northern Washington state. She was expected to pitch in and help — no free… Read more »
(this was inspired by emptying my suitcase this morning after spending the long weekend in Santa Cruz with our kids and their families, celebrating our fortieth wedding anniversary) Here is what I unpack from my suitcase: Sandcastles on the beach Conversations with my children as the sky grows pink then Inky black With candleglow to light… Read more »
I was the new kid in sixth grade. Again. Funny glasses. Funny name. Some misguided kids who felt the need to write notes to tell me I wasn’t welcome at Paramount Park Elementary. But the yuckiness only lasted about a week because that’s how long it took our teacher, Mr. Craig, to cast his spell…. Read more »
I’ve just finished reading Wendy Wan-Long Shang’s newest book, The Way Home Looks Now. Two thumbs up! It’s a story with lots of heart, sadness, hope and baseball. One of the plot points has got me reflecting on my growing up. As a terrible athlete, I never personally felt the pinch of those days before… Read more »
Today would’ve been my father-in-law’s 95th birthday. Ted Larson was about the kindest man I have ever met. When I first whispered aloud my dream to be a writer, it was Ted who brought home a spare IBM Selectric (self correcting!) from his office for me. I will never forget that vote of confidence. He… Read more »
It’s such an honor to host Nikki Loftin on my blog today, especially with all the buzz about her new book, Wish Girl (lovely review here in the New York Times!). I ADORED her book, The Sinister Sweetness of Splendid Academy which is why I got bold enough to ask her to be my friend even… Read more »