November is a month that never fails to remind me to be grateful. Thanksgiving is probably one of my favorite holidays because of the appreciative spirit at the heart of it. (But I don’t mind eating tasty stuffing and delicious pumpkin pie either!) Another important date in November happens on Small Business Saturday. Have you heard of this special day? This movement started in 2010, and it happens every year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. It’s a great opportunity for people to support … [Read more...]
Book Review: Till Death Do Us Port
November 3, 2022 Leave a Comment
5 stars Genre: Cozy Mystery Till Death Do Us Port (March 7, 2023) A delightful book. I love the strong cast of recurring characters that Lansing uses. It’s especially fun to have mother and daughter helping each other on this one. I also appreciated the maturity and growth that happens in Parker. What’s great about this book/series is that Parker gets to be philosophical, to sort things out, and to confront her fears. The premise behind this novel—a botched wedding—was done with … [Read more...]
Surrey International Writers’ Conference
October 26, 2022 Leave a Comment
Honestly, I thought I might be too conferenced out to enjoy SiWC. I'd already attended three writing conferences this year and was ready for a break. The organizers, though, were so lovely and inviting. Plus, Canada! The forecast was rain, so I didn't get to leave the hotel much. I did take a quick walk to the local park, marveling at the fall foliage along the way (see my Instagram account for more photos), and even discovered a black squirrel (check out my IG reel)! At the … [Read more...]
Canada, Here I Come
October 18, 2022 Leave a Comment
It's been years since I've traveled internationally (thank you, pandemic). Later this week, though, I'll be heading to Canada. To Surrey, BC--my first time there! I'm grateful for the chance to attend the Surrey Writers' International Conference. It'll be a lot of fun, and I'll need to turn on my conference mode. Since it's been so long, I had to make myself a checklist of items to think about: -Passport: Oops. I found out that my passport had actually expired, so I had to renew it. … [Read more...]
Goobne Chicken
October 10, 2022 Leave a Comment
I'm a sucker for fried chicken. I even had a cousin who worked for Kentucky Fried Chicken (discount, anyone?). Recently, though, I've had friends tell me about the original KFC: yes, Korean Fried Chicken. I also love this version. What I like is that they're usually smaller drumettes I can enjoy. They've also got a delicious marinade--something garlicky, soy saucey, and spicy (if you prefer). I've been hearing about roasted Korean fried chicken, so I thought I'd check out Goobne. To be … [Read more...]
Happy 35th, SinC!
September 27, 2022 Leave a Comment
Sisters in Crime officially started in 1987, so it’s been around for 35 years! We even had a members-only online celebration this past Saturday organized by the fabulous President Stephanie Gayle and amazing Executive Director Julie Hennrikus. It was filled with great panels, inspiring videos, and a fun social hour. Even from the beginning, the organization strove to be inclusive and not exclusive; it welcomed not only crime writers, but all crime fiction fans. The mission statement in … [Read more...]
While At Bouchercon
September 13, 2022 Leave a Comment
I’ll be honest. Bouchercon has intimidated me for years. A mystery fan convention that regularly boasts over 1000 attendees? That’s scary for an introvert like me. This year, though, I wanted to go in person, to mingle with authors and fans, and also to celebrate Sisters in Crime’s (SinC) 35th anniversary. (I’m currently VP on the national board and nominated to become President starting October 1, when the new term rolls around.) Here are highlights from my trip: SinC Executive … [Read more...]
Off to Bouchercon
September 6, 2022 Leave a Comment
Just a friendly note saying I'll be traveling to Bouchercon (9/7-9/11). If you're going, find me there! … [Read more...]
Book Review: The Christmas Clash
August 26, 2022 Leave a Comment
5 stars Genre: YA rom-com *Available Oct. 4, 2022 The Christmas Clash Such a cute story! I relished the setting of the suburban mall, and the vivid descriptions brought back such good memories. Peter and Chloe complement each other well. I loved diving into their different personalities—and getting to virtually enjoy the cuisines of their family restaurants. The holiday atmosphere added a special touch to the story, making it an even cozier feel-good rom-com. Find more of … [Read more...]
Foodie Friday: Chowdah
August 19, 2022 Leave a Comment
One of my favorite soups is clam chowder. Maybe because it reminds of the sea because I loved the ocean but grew up in landlocked Central California. Or perhaps since I liked those cute oyster crackers. I have fond memories of going to San Francisco and enjoying chowder in a sourdough bread bowl. Once, I even wrote down a recipe from a cooking show to create homemade chowder. It was very tasty but took a long time to make. After that experience, I opted to get gourmet versions from … [Read more...]
