Want to win some book contests? If you’re self-published or an author published by a small, independent press — here’s a starter list of contests to enter. Read more.
Barbara’s Riffs on Life
What I Really Wanted for My Birthday
What did I want for my biggest, fattest birthday yet? I wanted to visit to Nancy Selvin’s pottery studio — and go home a beautiful pot. Read more.
Kirkus Reviews ‘Wrestling with God’ This Month
Kirkus reviews ‘Wrestling with God: Stories of Doubt and Faith” in its print edition this month. Read more.
The Shame of Aging: The Big Seven-Five Has Finally Arrived
It’s here. My birthday. The Big Seven-Five. I’m now officially old. But I don’t wear my trousers rolled. Read more.
Wedding Dress Shopping — When Your Daughter Lets You Tag Along
When I went wedding dress shopping forty years ago, I went all by myself. My daughter was smarter. She phoned and asked me to go with her. Read more.
Airbnb — When a Home Away From Home Gets Way Too Homey
Airbnb is supposed to be a good deal — homey and cheap. But maybe, really I’d be better off in a real bed and breakfast like this one. Read more.