Look who came to visit! After years of FB messaging, sharing online reading, exchanging chapter reviews and comments about sewing, Deb Lacativa and I met in person. It felt as though we’d known each other for decades.
Deb was in town to deliver the key note speech at a writers’ conference in Salem. Her talk was what you’d expect: at once earthy, humorous, and inspirational. I was proud to be her plus-one.
During her visit, I made a bland chili, an alright chicken and potato dish, and an okay spinach salad. Why is it, sometimes, that my renditions of tried and true dishes disappoint when I have guests?
Oh well.
It rained one day but that was okay. Deb joined my class that morning and wrote along with us. That was fun. She also blew everyone away by reading a portion of her manuscript.
Regarding my own draft: conversations at the conference about word count have me all fired up. Today, I printed out a list of chapters and highlighted those that I either love or deem essential. That left about half as dross. Half! I’m eager to see a leaner, more narrative version.
The world is rather rusty and yellow right now. Still quite a lot of raking to do.
The collapsed vegetation offers the rough beauties of decay.
A faux tree made of road ribbons!
What an amazing and wonderful opportunity to spend in person time with Deb who you have known for so very long. Fantastic 🎉👏👏👏❤️
It was so natural! Proof that online community is a real thing. And yes, it was wonderful.
Yes … sometimes I think this ether-real community is more real than “real” communities …
And I hereby invite anyone who comes anywhere near Austin or San Antonio to stop by … please!!!
Agreed!
I’ve been away visiting my brother in Birmingham so am only now catching up with posts. I love that you and Deb got to meet in person .. sounds like you have so very much in common. I’m sure you both were inspired by each other.
Did you drive again this time?
Sadly my husband no longer has any desire to travel so I flew by myself. Having to transfer flights in Atlanta is for me is a nightmare but spending time with my brother was wonderful.
Wow! I was so confused coming here and seeing that first photo!! Oh fabulous for the two of you! I feel the same way as Liz, if I have people…they are here in this community 🙂 xo
It was fabulous.
a wonderful meeting of kindred spirits and good to hear the editing is underway!
Such an easy guest!
just LOVE this…what a Surprise! and how at Home….sisters with dog.
This does my heart good. Thank You Both
Finn loved her!
Yay! How wonderful for you and Deb to spend time together in person, with writing as your focus. I am happy for you both.
Yes it was a good time. Affirming in all kinds of ways.
Sounds like a wonderful, kindred and providential meeting of creative minds. I’m thinking that with each of these “real-life” connections, the circle grows closer for all of us.
Yes. The circle grows closer.
The warmth, the hospitality, and friendship were palpable from the moment you, K., and Finn me me at the airport. Your home is a true reflection of your good heart. “Welcome” whispered from every cozy angle. Thanks for putting up with my mission.
It was great to “meet” you. And in spite of the horrible traffic getting to Salem, it was an honor to be your guest.