Saturday, August 29, 2009

Back to Pennsylvania



I grew up in the Keystone State, and it was good to be back to visit our friends Ryan and Jenifer, along with our 'godson' Hawk. We had a great time at the Wharton Esherick museum and just hanging out with the one-year-old wonder. This is "Shearer Elegance" - the amazing bed and breakfast in Linfield, where we stayed.



We ended up splurging and buying an actual print made from a wood block carved by Wharton Esherick for a plate illustrating Walt Whitman's "Song of the Broad-Axe." It now graces our foyer and reminds me to work hard as I'm leaving the house, or entering it. Work is a pleasure that is unknown by the young, who often think it unpleasant. I know I did, but now revel in the opportunity to create and teach.

On Monday the fall semester begins, and it's back to some of that serious work. I'm deep into writing the history of Hamden, but this fall I will have plenty of chances to talk about Bridgeport on my fall tour. You'll be hearing more on that soon...

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Tamper 3

My friend, Bill Ectric, was interviewed by Literary Kicks. They also linked to my review of his newest book, Tamper.

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Prince Edward Island

This island now has to be one of my favorite livable areas of North America (I like the wilderness out west a lot, but wouldn't necessarily want to LIVE at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, etc.). It reminded me a lot of Europe, except the houses were not as old. The red sandstone really contrasts with the green fields, purple sea, and blue sky. We stayed for the most part in the 'touristy' part of the island - and it was barely touched.










This last one is the famous Green Gables, home of the fictional heroine "Anne of Green Gables," in reality the home of the author's (Lucy Maud Montgomery's) cousins.

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Friday, August 14, 2009

Nova Scotia

I have recently returned from a journey to the Canadian Maritimes, and found much to love there. Here are some photos from the Nova Scotia section of the journey...



Fields of wildflowers!



Halifax...



The ubiquitous fireweed, my favorite 'weed' of all.



And the Falcourt Inn, with a porch one could sit a lifetime on.

Monday, August 10, 2009

Tamper by Bill Ectric

My friend, Bill Ectric, has released his newest book, TAMPER. Check it out and maybe purchase it...



I wrote a review of it that he has on his website here.