On my way to town, I drive past houses where smoke from chimneys curls upward. It’s comforting to watch the updraft. I suddenly recall...

Rain had fallen for days. Puddles, all over the yard. The days had been dark and cold. I could feel it inside my body. It made me reflect...

4:00 p.m. It’s Friday, December 7th. I’m on time at Curious Craftsman, a shop in Norfork, Arkansas, ready to sign books for four hours....

Midmorning. We entered the parking lot at the church where we vote. We could not believe our eyes. So many cars. Wonderful turnout. We...

Sweater weather. Friday afternoon: I arrive at the Mennonite Fellowship Building located behind the church, beside the creek. Laughter. I...

What space does Labor Day occupy with you? My family has always been heavy with blue collar workers. Have I always been grateful for who...

Today is the first day of school in Norfork, where I live. I’m thinking about children, teachers, schools. I am not numb to the blue...

I look back at my Monticello High School years and remember that time as fun, difficult, a little warped. I needed cue cards to maneuver...

I am numb today, so I am up early and looking for my yard shoes. I’m not outside, because I want to beat the heat. Today it’s all about...

Pioneer Days in Norfork, Arkansas, population 511. The town stretches a mile or so down the main street with post office, grocery store,...