Author Archives: Debra

Perspective

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After getting only 11 hours of sleep in the past two days I started the morning thinking, “Wow, I am not going to be looking so great at brunch today.” How was I going to tame my frizzy hair, fix all the flaws reflected in the mirror, and find something decent to wear?

I managed to pull myself together, and had a nice time with relatives I hadn’t seen in awhile, but in my mind, they were probably judging me too.

As I was leaving, Mom pulled me aside and said, ”You looked beautiful when you came in today. Your hair looks lovely with all the different shades of blond in it. You’re a beautiful girl!” It was said with such sincerity, I felt tears stinging my eyes. I had not been feeling anything close to beautiful, and it took me a minute to even process the words.

I realized then how unkind I can be to myself. Being shocked to hear a compliment is not a good thing. I’m going to work on that.

~ Debra

Just Peachy!

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On a recent trip to HomeGoods, I ran across this stylish quilted desk chair in the unexpected color of peach. Although I wouldn’t normally choose this color, it adds just the right amount of fun and femininity to my office decor.

Thank you, Beverly Cleary.

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When I heard that Beverly Cleary passed away at the age of 104, my mind was instantly flooded with wonderful memories of childhood reading.

I got lost in the Ramona books. Ramona was brave, and I was shy. She was loud, and I was quiet. She was a pest, and I was . . . well, pesty! My older sister can attest to that. Sitting next to me at the dinner table was not a treat; unless you enjoy receiving an extra helping of your little sister’s vegetables on your plate. If I was lucky, she wouldn’t notice, and she would eat them! (Sorry, Lynn.)

Anyway . . . I can still picture the exact shelf in my grade school library where the Beverly Cleary books were displayed. I would sit on the floor for what seemed like hours, sorting through the hard cover books, hearing the distinctive crack of a spine, and breathing in the scent of paper.

Because Beverly Cleary was such a prolific author, there was always a new treasure to discover. Once I finished the Ramona series, I moved on to Henry and Beezus, Ellen Tebbits, Ribsy, and Socks. All . . . MAGIC.

So, thank you, Beverly Cleary, for allowing me to explore my imagination through your delightful books. Because of you, and many other children’s book authors, I will never forget how good it feels to love a book.

— Debra

I put a bow on it.

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Every year when I prepare my cards for mailing, I tie a satin bow around them. I love hearing the big “THUNK!” as I drop them through the mail slot. I picture the postman picking up the stack, and hope my little act of holiday cheer brings a smile.

Maybe the bow will somehow make its way under a Christmas tree, adorning a special gift. Wouldn’t that be fun?!

Do you still mail Christmas cards?

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

— Debra

Trees, please.

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My favorite trail.

Today I felt a distinct pull toward nature. Not only because fall is fleeting and I don’t want to miss it, but because I just needed it. 

It was so good to be among the trees, with rain drip dropping from the leaves, and birds chirping softly above.

I come alive when the weather is crisp. I love the contrast of bright leaves against dark tree bark, crunchy twigs underfoot, and the strong, peppery scent of the woods in autumn.

This little neck of the woods is a favorite of mine. It always reminds me of “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost. But I’ve taken this path hundreds of times over the years, and it never fails to bring me peace.

I hope you have a chance to enjoy the fall season; especially this year, when every experience is precious!

– Debra

Self Isolation and Souvenirs

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After self isolating for the past month or so, I’ve definitely been dreaming of traveling further than the kitchen. (Sigh.)

Never did I imagine that my world would get so small! It makes me want to plan a trip.

One of my earliest vacations was to the Black Hills with my parents, three siblings, and grandparents. We all piled into one car—my youngest sister and I happily squeezed into the very back with the luggage—and we were on our way to a grand adventure!

Of course we loved visiting all of the sites, but buying souvenirs was great fun too. A giant pencil from Mt. Rushmore, a note pad from Wall Drug, any cheap little trinket would do!

At the time I was too young to consider the souvenir plates that were readily available at every stop, however, I’ve since discovered them on Etsy. Even though they’re inexpensively made, they’re a colorful and unique reminder of the places that we’re longing to visit when life returns to normal.

Vintage souvenir plates are typically about 4″ across and can be attractively displayed in a wooden box like the one above, or used as a kitschy set of coasters that your company is sure to appreciate!

I hope that all of us can escape somewhere soon; especially to see our family and friends. Until then, stay safe!

— Debra