November is “National Novel Writing Month”. Every year people take up the challenge to write up to 50,000 words during the month. There is even a chart to see how you are dong on your goal and you can sign up “Writing Buddies”. This year I took the challenge , which is huge for an…

“Jack..stop making funny faces at all the people in passing vehicles to see how many people you can get to smile. This is Chicago!” “Scott…too bad. Motown music doesn’t have annoying  electric guitar..it is still music. When you are a parent  you can pick the music you think your kids will hate just to annoy…

Many people can identify with the beloved loved Christmas song, “There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays.” For 13-year-old Lisa, her one wish has finally come true. She now has a place to call home. Lisa, who had been in and out of the foster care system for most of her life, was among…

Savor -to enjoy with appreciation; dwell on with delight. Amy and I have been ramping up our culinary prowess and learning new recipes.  I had never thought to add nutmeg to a cheese filling, or fresh ginger to chicken and yet that is what we have been doing. The kitchen smells wonderful and even the…

Prologue William Gooch was consumed with the prospect of gold. The journey from the flat plains of Missouri over the rugged Sierra Mountains was treacherous. They would leave for California at dawn’s first glow. He watched his slaves, Peter and Nancy, load the wagon with needed supplies. There was only one more thing William needed…