NPR played this discussion and this phrase really struck me: I have a view that I just have to do the best I can, get the results I can, make a difference in people's lives. This was part of a soundbite of Hillary Clinton speaking of her time as a senator. I was absolutely struck by… Continue reading Musings: Women in Politics
Writing: Tributes & Titles
History is full of ranks and titles. With those ranks came specific honorifics (tribute) which people gave to denote their respect to that rank. Emperor King Duke Marquee Admiral Commander Lord Honorable Grace Liege When writing historical fiction, I think it's important to keep titles accurate. Why would anyone ever call a king "my lord"? Is… Continue reading Writing: Tributes & Titles
Rambling: Economic theory(s)
I have been saying since high school that if we took humans out of the discussion, I think Marxism would be a great system. But the moment you add people it breaks down. The same is true of Capitalism. It works great until you add people. Pretty much any economic theory works that way. That's… Continue reading Rambling: Economic theory(s)
Manners: Insults
When I feel the need to insult someone, I have decided I am going to call them a kidney stone. No one likes kidney stones. No one wants them. They are painful. They make you miserable. Everyone feels sorry for the person who has to deal with the kidney stone. Doesn't it sound like… Continue reading Manners: Insults
Politicis: NC’s HB2 (“The Bathroom Bill”)
How is this anything like a "commonsense" bill? It does not even make sense - as a lot of comedians have been saying. It is someone trying to hurt a group of people who they don't like. It's a Bully Bill. Let's be really frank here. If I am in the bathroom and anyone tries to assault… Continue reading Politicis: NC’s HB2 (“The Bathroom Bill”)
Manners: Everyone gets a vote in a Democracy
I had to type democracy three times in the title. I kept typing "democrazy" and my mind went "yeeeesss" and "No!" at the same damn time. But it's true, democracy is the most difficult kind of government. This political cycle is already showing signs of being ugly and demeaning to both parties. Here's the rub I… Continue reading Manners: Everyone gets a vote in a Democracy
Writing: Cost of Writing
It's difficult for writers to make money. I went out into the cold corporate world after college because I don't like going hungry. Some days I hate it. I hate going to work. My fingers itch and all I want to do it use post-it notes on a wall and figure out the plot hole… Continue reading Writing: Cost of Writing
Politics: Society without work
I've been asking this question very deliberately since about June. Most of the people I talk to like the concept, but we don't have answers. Every time I ask this question, I have a great conversation about the issues around it, and it peters off into a frustrated silence. I think is a very real… Continue reading Politics: Society without work
Life Events: Listing
Yesterday I listed my condo for sale. I am writing this the night-of, so when you read this, it will be "yesterday." Almost exactly 3 years ago the contract was accepted for me to buy this condo. I was terrified. Terrified. Homeownership is a big deal. It's the American Dream. Granted, I'm pretty sure the American… Continue reading Life Events: Listing
Writing: Esthabar Chapter 1
I walked as quickly as I could down the corridor, the books bouncing hard against my ribs in their sack. I snarled a bit at the passing faete, his massive green hands shifting upwards, the leaves slowly getting out of my way. I hurried out of the building, grateful classes were over for the next… Continue reading Writing: Esthabar Chapter 1
Dream by Day 