Tag Archives: teaching

Over the Weekend I Pretend I’m a Writer

Just kidding. I know I’m a writer. It’s taken a while to accept it as a fact inside and out (yes, I’m aware that’s nuts; and yes, I have seen a therapist), but I’ve got it now. I may not … Continue reading

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Pandemic Parenting: Sending my kids back to school after 305 days at home

Today is the first day in 305 days that I have been away from both my children. The last time was March 12, 2020, when they went to school for the day before the Covid-19 pandemic changed all our lives … Continue reading

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In praise of teachers, who are the candle lighters

Well, I had this teacher who ________. This is the start of an answer I’ve given hundreds of times at book clubs or venues where I’ve been a featured author or speaker. Because someone always asks, “What inspired you to … Continue reading

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First Book Love, Book Clubs & Tea Towels

I believe I’ve mentioned before my undying love of book clubs. Since my debut historical novel, Keowee Valley, was published waaaayyyy back in 2012, I’ve met with dozens of book clubs to talk about it. These “meetings” never fail to … Continue reading

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New column: “‘History junkies’ needed to make field trips come alive”

Field trips make history–and any other subject–come alive, for kids of all ages. This and more in my newspaper column this week. Plus the Transylvania History Society, who is looking for a local history buff to help them help area … Continue reading

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New column: “Before kindergarten begins, this preschool deserves thanks”

In one day, my younger daughter will go to kindergarten. My last child, my buddy, my baby. But before she does, I need to thank the preschool that cared so well for both my daughters, and for me, for the … Continue reading

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New column: “Here’s to the dads who taught me to waterski”

I am woefully behind on posting my newspaper columns. I blame the summer, that mercurial minx. This one is about childhood, learning to waterski, and the dads who taught me how. With a belated Happy Father’s Day to all the … Continue reading

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New column: “Birds of a feather”

Last week my kids (not me) were on Spring Break, and in the chaos I completely forgot to post my column. Here it is! It’s about birds of a feather, getting away, finding your flock. I hope y’all enjoy it! … Continue reading

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America’s children are out of time

“America’s children are out of time” Because of print deadlines, I turn in my newspaper columns a week before they’re published. This piece was written over a week ago. On Tuesday the college where I teach was placed on lockdown, … Continue reading

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Sullivan’s Island, here I come: Tinderbox Writers Retreat 2018

I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be joining the Tinderbox Writers Workshops this Spring on beautiful Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina, as a workshop leader. Founded by Kimberly Brock, author of The River Witch and Georgia Author of the Year 2013 … Continue reading

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