Happy New Year! I’m writing via Substack as a streamlined way to communicate about my life. Since social media is fraught with algorithms, and everyone is hanging out various platforms, I’m giving this a shot.
My posts will be short and sweet, and I’m super afraid to commit to a posting schedule, just yet. This communication will serve as my newsletter, blog, professional update, place to share personal stories, place to give advice, or whatever you want to call it. And, it is free because, let’s face it, unless I’m supplying truly compelling content, why would you pay?
College: My oldest daughter committed to a university! Woo hoo! I can step away from the fresh hell known as the college application process. When I tell you that it is out of control, I mean, it is out of control. Ask me questions if you have them, I’m happy to share my limited knowledge.
Dogs: We rescued a two-year-old stray terrier mix from Georgia and named her Cinnamon Spice. Although Chilli Pepper is in his golden years, he has been a super trooper while handling his baby sister’s antics. Cinnamon is also an aspiring writer! She sits on my lap while I draft and she joined me for this weeks’s ASJA board meeting via Zoom. Cute, not so cute.
Author Interview: I’m in conversation with author, Michelle Cameron, at Temple B’nai Jeshurun, on January 18th at 7:00pm. We’ll discuss her riveting Jewish historical fiction novel, Babylon: A Novel of Jewish Captivity. This interfaith conversation will also explore how educating others about Jewish history can help combat anti-semitism. If you’re local to the Tristate area and are interested in joining, please register for the event here.
This Mama is Lit! Podcast: Along with Brianna Avenia-Tapper and Amanda Fields, I’ve interviewed a number of interesting authors about the intersection of mothering and writing for Literary Mama’s new and super relatable podcast. Please follow us here if you love it! Listen to some of my favorites: Susan Shapiro, Alyssa Ages, Corie Adjmi.
TikTok: Why did it take me so long to get on TikTok? It’s so in my wheelhouse. I’m getting to play the actor, screen-writer, and filmmaker that I’ve always wanted to be. I love posting silly, writing-related vignettes with my daughter. Follow me here.
How To Dance in Ohio: My husband and I have dipped our toes into Broadway production and we’re involved with this show that is meaningful to any parent. This groundbreaking musical features an autistic cast. Get tickets here.
Writing and Life Tip: Be a “yes, and-er”. Instead of saying “no”, a “yes, and-er” says, “Yes, and how can I apply what I’ve learned to my life or career?” For example, I’ve said, “Yes, and how can I use Substack and TikTok to authentically communicate with my audience and grow in an industry that is constantly changing?” Well, here we are and let’s see how it goes. I hope you’ll join me in my journey!
Hi Evette, Thank you for your kind words and for connecting with my work. I just watched a segment on CBS for How to Dance in Ohio and I'm so proud of being inloved with that show! It is super exciting and a wonderful experience for all!
Hi Holly. So proud of you and your accomplishments as a Mom and Writer. I love reading all your stories. College applications are quite the ride and then there's the FAFSA (and the dreaded CSS Profile, if they still use that). But the reward of your daughter getting into her top choice!!! Congratulations! Also, very excited that you and your husband are part of "How to Dance in Ohio". I've been sharing information about this show with parents at our studio. I love that the crew has made backstage sensory friendly as well. The cast was fabulous at the Macy's TG day Parade. I'm looking forward to seeing the show.