Universe smiles on committed writers

One of my favorite quotes is, "At the moment of commitment the entire universe conspires to assist you," from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

Oh, for the days of sky-high heels

The other day I went for a pedicure and manicure. My manicurist looked taller than usual as she walked toward me. I looked at her feet - she was wearing a pair of platform stiletto-heeled shoes.

Definitions of 'mother' and 'love' complicated

has written several books, teaches writing workshops and lives in Oro Valley

Definitions of 'mother' and 'love' complicated

Pushing a cart through the grocery store recently, I spotted a large Mother's Day card display. Sadly, I realized this will be my first Mother's Day without my mom. Memories of past Mother's Days flooded my mind.

Desert Ashram offers serenity, lightness

This is the outside of the Temple at the Desert Ashram at 3403 W. Sweetwater Drive. It's one of several buildings on the property.

Desert Ashram offers serenity, lightness

The Buddha Garden is rich with desert flora and fauna. The serene setting imparts a relaxed, untroubled state of mind.

Desert Ashram offers serenity, lightness

If you're thinking of taking time off to reflect on life and yourself, you might consider visiting the Desert Ashram.

A focus on others, being positive can transform

A friend of mine has this saying posted on her refrigerator: "In every connection we are either positive or negative. The choice is yours."

Even snakes and scorpions delight this new desert dweller

has written several books, teaches writing workshops and lives in Oro Valley

Even snakes and scorpions delight this new desert dweller

Now that I've experienced snakes, scorpions and the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, I consider myself an old-time resident of Tucson.

A few key words helped me defuse arguments

My odometer notched up another year in February. Now that I'm in my vintage years, I am calmer and don't feel the need to win every quarrel. What changed?

'Uncle Stanley' has been inspiring friend for many years

My forays into writing have led me to all sorts of characters - literary and otherwise. I met one of the most fascinating men I know at one of my book signings. His name is Stanley Gordon. From that day on I called him "Uncle Stanley" because his last name is the same as my protagonist, Leah…

Arizona weather offers adventure

It never occurred to me that I would ever utter the words "I can't wait until the weather gets warmer."

Live for day, but also trust the flights of fancy

A friend sent me an email with this message: "Heal the past, live the present, dream the future." This concept spoke to me.

A daughter's visit is a special time for Mom, and for a party

Madeleine "Madi" Suarez prepares some hors d'oeuvres for a party to welcome her at her mother's home.

A daughter's visit is a special time for Mom, and for a party

A few weeks ago, my younger daughter, Madi, phoned.

Love Windows 8; love computer tech more

My middle name should be "tech-challenged," so when my computer started giving me grief, flashing messages such as "You are obsolete," I panicked.

Hats off to those brave women who misbehaved

I recently read the quote "Well-behaved women seldom make history." My immediate reaction was to think of Planned Parenthood founder Margaret Sanger, followed by the women who were arrested for their efforts in getting the vote for women. Hard to believe how badly they were treated. After su…