Not too many years ago our city of Springfield, Oregon was embroiled in a controversy over allowing a new medical facility, Peace Health Sacred Heart Medical Center at Riverbend, to be built near the juncture of I-5 and the city limits, not far from a community hospital already serving the community. Riverbend won the dispute […]
Jane Kirkpatrick
Writers–Keepers of the Story
In my home cupboard, I have a collection of things handed down through my grandmother from her grandfather’s family—a pioneer fork, a glass Easter egg, salt cellars, a butter stamp. All my childhood years I heard tales of my great-great grandfather who crossed the plains on horseback and settled on a donation land claim on […]
When Writers Speak
One of the benefits of attending a writer’s conference like the venue I wrote about last week is hearing from special speakers—usually writers—who have ventured down the path of publishing ahead of you and offer insights into the journey. Last week was no exception. Ed Underwood, senior pastor of the historic Church of the Open […]
Why Writers Need Conferences
I attended a writers conference this week. Truth be told, I lacked enthusiasm before I drove there. I’d attended three conferences last year and they left me drained—physically, financially, and emotionally. The thought of attending another one held as much appeal as facing an appendectomy. But I went. Like the act of writing itself, conferences […]
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Pebble in the Water Inspiration–Weekend Getaway
Everyone worked from a personalized notebook, complete with a bookbag. Bob Welch teaches writers to find their voice. Last weekend I attended the 20th Beachside Writers Workshop in Yachats, Oregon. Founded by Bob Welch as Pebble in the Water Inspiration in 2005, the weekend getaway seeks to encourage new writers to find their voice. An evening, […]
Shore Acres–A Draw for Writer, Gardener and Tourist
While celebrating our anniversary this week with a trip along the southern Oregon coast, my husband and I visited one of our favorite stops—Shore Acres State Park, south of Coos Bay. Whether you are an avid gardener seeking floral beauty, a writer seeking setting for a book, or a tourist out for a great hike, […]