I republish this post every couple of years because, frankly, most writers can use a kick in the pants sometimes. This one, however, is painless. It's motivating, and it will work to cement definable, positive writing goals. I credit the exercise to author and writing coach Cheri Caddick! First step: Fold a piece of lined paper in half. On the left half, write a list of what stalls you … [Read more...]
Sneaker Squandering
My biggest indulgence: buying athletic shoes. Some women hoard high heels. Some women have closets full of boots, heels, flats and pumps. Leona "Queen of Mean" Helmsley had 250 of the same Ferragamo shoes. I'm not that bad, but whenever UPS or FedEx brings a box to the door, the husband laughs and asks me, "More shoes?" My indulgence is based on my biggest fear: that the athletic shoe that … [Read more...]
Should parents censor what their kids read?
What is acceptable reading material for your child? It's a legit question, especially since banning books by some schools has in turn created a demand for these books. Suppose your middle schooler wants to read Art Spiegelman's Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel Maus? Would exposing them to certain truths harm them, or frighten them? Looking at this list of banned books, I realize … [Read more...]
Honoring our Fallen Veterans
Teaching the meaning of Memorial Day to children To most kids (and to many adults), Memorial Day marks the beginning of summer. We barbecue hamburgers, take a trip to the park, or plant flowers since there’s no longer the threat of frost. To families who have lost loved ones in the service of our country, however, the meaning runs deeper than a cookout. We want our children to … [Read more...]
What, Why, How, Diana Dinverno
What: Each poem in my chapbook, When Truth Comes Home to Roost, is meant to be a revelation, a slant of light shining through a window. The poems lean toward autobiography, capture experiences, both large and small, over time and against shifting backdrops— childhood in the working-class Midwest, a Northern Michigan meadow, World War II Europe, a funeral during the pandemic, and in … [Read more...]
- « Previous Page
- 1
- …
- 20
- 21
- 22
- 23
- 24
- …
- 112
- Next Page »