Until I wrote At the Narrow Waist of the World I did not understand the still-raw wound that I carried. I began the book by serendipity, with a scene I’d held in my memory full of texture and detail. I saw myself at the age of 5 or 6 carrying a white tray with hinged sides, hot milk in a Noritake cup, taking dinner to Mami who was very troubled at the time and was in bed.
Read moreChildhood’s Gifts to Memoir
When we are kids we’re protagonists in a one person play as we measure up against the world. Everything is vivid; feelings are fierce. This is pure gold for writers.
Read moreWhat will you allow yourself to be open to?
We are vulnerable. Let’s celebrate this fact of life. The hurt, the anger, the noticing, the love. It’s never about perfection. Perfection covers up all the interesting things about being human.
Read morePrimas, Primos, and Piñatas
We didn’t know then that these were times in our lives when we were fully alive.
Panama’s birthday yesterday had me thinking of the birthday parties of my childhood in Panama when primas, primos, tías, and tíos were the cast of characters in my life. So I spent the afternoon searching for that one gorgeous photo of my little brother’s birthday party in the carport of tía Connie’s house. Here it is! Come play with me.
Read moreLaunch for At the Narrow Waist of the World
Emocionada and K’velling.
I’ve been waiting to share with you pictures from the book launch for At the Narrow Waist of the World two Sundays ago—and to thank those of you who could be there at the flagship Barnes & Noble store in Eastchester, NY. What a thrill for me to see so many loved faces! Did you notice my guardian angels that afternoon?
Read moreHow Do I Wear a Panama Hat?
Dear Friends and Readers, here’s some fun. Click on the link to learn about the Panama hat — and how to wear one. At The Narrow Waist of the World is 12 days from pub date!
Read more