TEN QUESTIONS WITH AN AUTHOR: D Wallace Peach (25June2022)

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Hello Readers,

Today I am sharing “TEN Questions with an Author” featuring D Wallace Peach.

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Some long-time followers of this blog might know that I startsd the Priorhouse Interview series back in 2015-2016Ish – and managed to do a handful of interviews (mostly yoga teachers) and then in 2021, I decided to put more of a focus on it (thanks in part to Marsha  @alwayswrite).
Also, to get momentum, I scheduled monthly interviews ahead of time (and next month – July 2022- we have author Robbie Cheadle – here – so hope to see you back for that).

Another thing that helped the interview series was doing some unplanned interviews that unfolded on their own- like with Paul Lucas from the Mariner’s Museum (here) and like this mini interview today.

D Wallace Peach, DWP,  has a new book coming out in August and that was one of the reasons for this mini interview post.  I also had a blog insight for authors and wanted to share that as well (see #5)

#1

Can you tell us about the new book being released in August 2022? And thanks for doing this interview here at Priorhouse.

DWP:

Thanks for having me over for a mini-interview!  And thanks for the fun questions with a chance to jump up and down about a new book!

Book Details:

The Necromancer’s Daughter will be out at the end of August 2023! Here’s a brief version of the longer blurb:

Barus, a healer and dabbler in the dark arts, is forgotten in the chaos of the dying queen’s chamber. He spirits away her stillborn infant and breathes life into the wisp of a child. Raised as the necromancer’s daughter, Aster learns to heal death.

All is well until the dying king defies the Red Order and summons his only heir. For his boldness, he falls to an assassin’s blade. In a land splintered by those who practice magic and those who hunt them, Aster flees for her life. She must choose whether or not she wants to trust the one man offering her aid, the one man most likely to betray her—her enemy’s son.

#2  

That sounds really detailed! And while fiction is not my main reading genre, your book sure feels like a “Lord of the Rings” kind of adventure story – with fantasy, trust, and various layered realms.
How can we find you (and this book) online?

DWP: I will be sharing book updates on my blog and on Amazon.


#3

Can you tell us a little bit about your background and brief bio?

DWP: Before I started writing, I was a children’s mental health counselor, working with the under-five crowd (and their parents). I loved the work, but a move to another state meant recertification, and I ran out of steam. At age 50, I needed a career change and decided to write. I moved into it full-time and was completely hooked. I’ve been writing fantasy for thirteen years and blogging for about ten. I have nineteen novels now, a children’s book, and spots in a number of anthologies.

Priorhouse: Wow- that is quite a career change!  I have been following you for about five years now, which leads us to the next question.

#4

Do you still offer writing tips online?  When I was reading Kelvin M. Knight’s Flashes of Weather book (post is here), I noticed that he added a quote from you in his book! I think that seeing your name there said a lot about how so many folks are inspired by you and what you share online.

DWP: That was so kind of Kelvin Knight (K to the 2) to do that.

Yes, I used to offer writing tips on my blog but have moved most of that activity to Story Empire (https://storyempirecom.wordpress.com), where I’m one of eleven contributors. I never get tired of talking about writing, and I consider myself a life-long learner when it comes to this craft.

#5

Do you have any tips for “author bloggers”?

Regarding publishing, I went through a huge learning curve and switched from traditional publishing to self-publishing, a move I’ve never regretted. When I started blogging, I was also completely clueless. (That’s my MO, Yvette, jump in with both feet and doggy paddle like mad until I figure it out.)

The biggest tip I can share related to growing an author BLOG is to comment.
Comment, comment, comment.


Priorhouse: I love the three comment words.

  • In real estate we have “location, location, location.
  • In relationships and consulting we have “communicate, communicate, communicate”
  • In skin care we have “exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate”
  • With the immune system we have “gut health, gut health, gut health”
  • With blog connecting we have “comment, comment, comment”


Priorhouse tip for author bloggers:

I wanted to mention that I recently was reading a blog post from an author and she was inviting folks to preorder her book. I left a comment and looked around her site. Then later, when I was curious about her book – (I wanted to know more about it and was maybe going to help her out with an order – because I do want to support more authors). Anyhow, I couldn’t remember her name or the book title (guess it was a busy day for me – hahah) but the reason I am sharing this story is that if she had visited my blog and left even one little comment – I think I would have recognized the name and gone back to her blog!
I know it takes time to visit blogs (and I am not trying to say folks should become a “blog-visit junkie” or force it and visit lots of blogs because that can tax the mind! – but if promoting a book it might be a good idea to make some rounds- especially if someone commented on your promotion post).

Yes, we know it can be tough to leave comment after comment (even though a short – even one sentence comment – can be more than enough) but it is crucial for “author bloggers” to do this if they want to build a following and promote their work! 


DWP: It takes time to leave comments, but blogging for authors is about building relationships, and comments are the main way to do that. It’s our online friends who’ll support us when a new book hits the shelves. And we should do the same for them in whatever way we can.

#6

I joined in with your “share about your muse” challenge a few years ago, which  I enjoyed.

Do you host any other challenges?

DWP: I loved that muse challenge (which was three years ago, I think).
A different challenge that I hosted regularly involved posting a monthly speculative fiction (sci-fi or fantasy) image, and bloggers were invited to write a story or poem using it as inspiration. I typically got about 70 responses that I reblogged over the month.

However, family stuff happened, and my parents started needing a lot of care. I couldn’t keep up. I’m certain I won’t restart it since life has gotten even busier, but that shouldn’t stop anyone from finding an inspiring image and writing!

#7

Do you listen to music while writing?

DWP:  You might not believe this, but I don’t listen to music. I haven’t in about 13 years – since I started writing.  I can’t write with music on, and if I’m not writing, I’m reading, and if I’m not reading, I’m listening to books. And if I’m not listening to books, my husband has the television blaring. There’s no escape from that.

Priorhouse: I believe you that you don’t listen to music – but it was shocking to hear that because I love music so much! Wow! 
I do have quiet seasons where I might go without music for days and days – but I really need a variety of music in my life!

🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶


#8
Can you share a song that makes you smile or lifts your mood.

DWP: Pick a song for me, Yvette, and I promise I’ll get up and dance.

Priorhouse: Well, I considered a lot of songs and decided to share an “oldie but goodie” that made me smile a lot this spring. 
It is “And the Beat Goes On” by the Whispers!

Song:

Priorhouse: I knew the song from High School, when some upper grade music majors sang it in the basement halls (sweet acoustics down there). Then this spring, we did some painting and I played this song on a booming speaker (there are some amazing speakers available these days).

I noticed the song had a few lyrics that were uplifting! It amazed me to think that we can enjoy a song for years but never really hear the lyrics. 

Here is a snippet from “And the Beat Goes On” by The Whispers

And the beat goes on
Just like my love everlasting
And the beat goes on (you’d better believe it)
Still moving strong

on and on

Don’t stop for nobody
This time I’ll keep my feet on solid ground
Now I understand myself (when I’m down)
Like the sweet sound of hip music
There’ll always be something new.

I didn’t realize the lyrics related to rebounding – and learning life lessons (ie “this time I’ll keep my feet on solid ground” and “now I understand myself”); the song is about letting the beat of our life move on – while staying well! Funny how we can listen to a song (on and off) for decades and then suddenly “hear” the lyrics and it changes the song experience. That leads to the next question.

#9

What do you do for wellness and mental sanity?

DWP: This is an easy one after that last doozie of a question about music.

 I go straight outside and into nature. I love being outdoors taking walks or growing food or just sitting still and listening to the wind. Mother Earth is the cure-all for me, and the crazier the world gets, the more I need it to unwind and find a place of peace and sanity.

DWP: Also, my husband and I gave up sugar, grains, and seed oils about four years ago when we started a Keto diet/lifestyle. We avoid all chemicals (like artificial sweeteners) as well as processed food. We just love the diet and have seen a huge difference in our overall health.

#10

If you had an extra $500.00 to spend in an afternoon – how would you spend it.

DWP: Oh… besides using it for important things, I’d snag my working-mom daughter and we’d splurge at the spa.

If my daughter was not available for some spa time, I’d blow the whole thing on a fancy pants book promotion.


D. Wallace Peach’s Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/D-Wallace-Peach/e/B00CLKLXP8

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And now to the readers  – we were wondering what “you” would do with an extra $500.00?
Or….

can you share a song that brings a smile?

Please leave any feedback in the comments below.

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248 thoughts on “TEN QUESTIONS WITH AN AUTHOR: D Wallace Peach (25June2022)”

    1. Thanks for stopping by and reading, Dan. I love the way Yvette puts these together. It’s like sitting around with a cup of coffee and having a face to face chat. I’m glad you enjoyed it and discovered something new at the same time. Have an awesome weekend. 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

  3. Thanks so much for the interview, Yvette! I’m honored and delighted to be here. That was great fun. I’m going to set it up to share, and will be right back to say hi to everyone. Hugs.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. My pleasure D, and I appreciate that the timing worked out for you because it was great timing for me and when it all lines up that feels so good<
      🌸🌺

      Liked by 2 people

  4. Pingback: Interview with Yvette at Priorhouse | Myths of the Mirror

    2. Hi Jacqui – I like how you said “Another Peach read” and have to admit that the Barus character seems like he has much good to offer 😊📚

      Liked by 3 people

  6. I don’t listen to music either, so I was happy to read I’m not alone. I love the courage to let go of a career at 50 and dive into something new. Another good interview, Yvette. As to your question….I could use some new clothes, and haven’t been shopping in years…so maybe that.

    Liked by 4 people

    1. Thanks for the comment, VJ. I find music either too distracting or too evocative and it just takes over the mood of whatever I’m writing. Is that the same with you? I’m glad you enjoyed the interview. Happy Weekend and I hope you get to shop in the near future. 😀

      Liked by 2 people

    2. Hi VJ
      Isn’t it great to learn so many new things about blog friends? For example even after our interview I didn’t know that you don’t listen to music!

      Another example of how we layers humans take time to peel back some layers !

      And thanks for sharing what you would do with the extra moola 💰
      (And I think I would use at least half of it on books!)

      Liked by 3 people

    1. Thanks for stopping by Yvette’s to read and comment, Mike. I had a lot of fun creating that cover and I think it represents the book well. I’m glad you were intrigued. Have a great weekend. 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

        1. Thanks, Cee. Some of them I’ve made myself and some I’ve had done professionally. It all depends what’s in the budget at the time! A juggling act sometimes. 🙂 Thanks for dropping by!

          Liked by 2 people

  8. Nice interview girls! I think I still don’t know you Diana… it’s a revelation that you don’t listen to music! Music of Mother Nature is enough for you! I can’t live without music and the best time to listen is when I cook, it adds to the flavor of the food. 😊
    Looking forward to the release of your new book. Have a wonderful weekend Yvette and Diana.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. I’m glad I still surprise you after all these years, Balroop. Ha ha. I listen to books while I cook. And while I’m driving and doing laundry and weeding the garden, so music just gets back-seated. That might be different if I wrote poetry though, where it’s helpful to get swept up in the mood. Hmmm. Have a wonderful weekend, my friend, and Happy Writing!

      Liked by 2 people

        1. I think most people are with you. I listen to kindle books in the car. I can listen to an entire book in two trips to my parent’s apartment. It’s my best reading time and the trip flies by. 🙂

          Like

        2. Yes – ballroop – jamming to tunes on a drive can be refreshing – and the audio books can be a gift too.
          Back in the 1990s, I listened to radio shows while commuting (and chuck swindoll”s radio program gave me so much needed insight as a young adult)
          iAnd nowadays we also have podcast options to make a commute ether – so Diana I bet the trips do fly by with those books streaming!

          Liked by 1 person

    2. Hi Balroop! First a huge thanks for the tip about music while cooking because some of those who have challenges in the kitchen might really value the tip!

      🥘anything that helps flavor just makes life better – ha!🌮🥗

      Thanks for the visit and comment for D’S interview
      ☀️📚

      Liked by 3 people

  9. I greatly enjoyed your interview with Diana. Her comment about jumping into something new and exciting with both feet and doggy paddle like mad until she figures it out struck of very responsive chord with me. (I’m the same way.)

    To your question about a song that makes me smile, here you go! https://youtu.be/tGI4r2zgq0o

    Liked by 2 people

    2. I didn’t know that about you, Liz. I think of you as very methodical and organized. But I like that you’re a dare-devil too. It’s exciting, isn’t it? I have your song choice playing in the background. Great pick and new to me. Now I’m going to get another cup of coffee while it plays to the end. 🙂 ….. There. Thanks for dropping by Yvette’s!

      Liked by 2 people

  10. Coincidently, I just met D Wallace Peach this week. It was so fun to get to know her better. I’m not a writer or reader by any stretch of the imagination. Her books do sound interesting though. I found out she lives about 2 hours away from me in a gorgeous small town. I love her attitude on building blogs…comment, comment, comment. That is so true. No matter what your blog topic or theme is. This was a fun interview. 😀 😀

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Thanks for the visit and comment, Cee. And I agree that it doesn’t matter what the blog is about. It’s secondary to the connections we make and the friendships we build. I chat more with my blog buddies than I do with my local friends, by a lot! Have an awesome weekend and enjoy the sunshine!

      Liked by 3 people

    2. Hi Cee-

      I also like her artsy book covers and agree that the blog tips offered applied to more than just authors!

      And side note – I remember years ago (2014) when a blogger was new and she shared a post about her experience and she mentioned how much she liked your “likes”- it stuck out to me for two reasons – one, because it reminded how vulnerable the early days of blogging can be and when a post went up there could be no comments coming in and maybe five or six likes – and in those early days – every like feels so good (sadly – so many likes get missed as bloggers grow and that is why many bloggers note that if you want someone to know you costed their blog it might be better to leave a comment and not click like/ even tho likes have value IMO)

      ☀️the second thing that stuck out with that comment was how consistent you are as a blog host – someone joins a challenge and you are there connecting – very consistent (and of course you often make your rounds outside of your challenges ☀️🙏)

      Lastly – that is awesome that you were able to meet DWP and I look forward to meeting some bloggers maybe later this year!
      😊☀️

      Liked by 3 people

      1. Thanks Yvette for such a sweet comment. I get so busy, I still use the like button. I have noticed not as many people use it as much. I am way too busy to comment on each blog post, even though in my head I do. Have a great weekend. 😀

        Liked by 3 people

  11. I enjoyed this interview with Diana quite a bit. I think it’s important to learn from experienced writers/bloggers like Diana and absorb what works for them in their process. I’ve always noticed how supportive Diana is to others, and she practices what she preaches by offering lots of helpful wisdom to fellow authors.

    I don’t have music going on when I write because I find it distracting when I’m trying to concentrate, but when I’m not writing, music is often going on in the background. I like many different kinds of music, so choosing one song that brings a smile is difficult, but I’ll go with Happy by Pharrell Williams. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6Sxv-sUYtM

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Hi Pete Springer – thanks for your comment here at Diana’s interview and for sharing about the way she supports and connects 😊
      Also – your song choice of “Happy” by PW not only played in my mind right away – because it was so popular at one point (think he got the “Oprah” bump with that) and you really picked a song that can deliver a smile and maybe get Diana dancing a bit! Ha
      🕺💃

      Liked by 3 people

    2. You caught on to blogging so quickly, Pete. I think it’s your naturally outgoing nature. It took me two years to realize that blogging was supposed to be social. I have 8 likes and one comment my whole first year! Lol. I was such a clueless newbie. And I almost picked that song too! I used to sing it with my grandson when he was a little tyke. Awesome choice. Thanks for the visit, my friend, and Happy Weekend!

      Liked by 3 people

  12. Great interview! I learned some new things about Diana:) I agree how important commenting is and we share the love of healing nature. Your diet sounds very similar to mine and does make a huge difference.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thanks for the visit, Denise. I think we have a lot in common, and now in another way! My husband was pre-diabetic and on medication. Within two weeks of cutting out sugar and most carbs, his blood levels were normal. He hasn’t needed meds, and it’s been years since either of us had a cold. I wish I was as disciplined about exercise! Lol Have a wonderful day and Happy Touring! Enjoy some sunshine too.

      Liked by 1 person

    2. Hi DL
      Thanks for joining us on the interview – my family is keto too even tho I am not sure I like the term because it is getting overused –
      Also – my husband is a part time health coach and you likely both already know this / and one of the first things he has his clients do is stay away from the “unholy trinity”:
      The sugars that are everywhere, the industrial seed oils (canola, vegetable, etc) and grains – but whew – does this go agains common thinking!

      And Diana – he has a 16-minute workout and folks that do their version of it (3x a week) have excellent results – I will try and share it later – but it is potent and gets results in little time!

      Thanks again DL and wishing you a good day

      Liked by 1 person

  13. Nice interview Yvette with an interesting mix of fun and serious questions. Diana, it’s nice to learn more about you personally. I was surprised by the no music and diet. Kudos. I eat well but am not as disciplined as you and your husband. I also can’t write with music, but enjoy listening to music at other times. Best wishes on your upcoming book.

    Liked by 3 people

    1. I enjoy music, Brad, especially when I’m socializing (which isn’t often, I’ll admit). But when I’m home alone, I just choose to read instead. And yes, we’re very disciplined about food and reap the benefits. Not so much about exercise – the bane of many writers. In that regard, I’m terrible! Stay cool, my friend. (We just got into the 70’s so I’m outside with the squirrels.)

      Liked by 2 people

        2. Hi Brad

          Thanks for your comment and with the questions – I try to change them up so I appreciate the feedback on that especially -☀️

          And my entire family has been keto for years now and it really becomes a lifestyle (for us it has) and that helps -‘and is less about discipline (if that makes sense)-

          Also / finally getting the “boot in the head” about how bad sugar is for the human body (arrests the immune system and hinders health) and then bad oils and the grains these days are no bueno – so understanding that helped me a lot.😒

          Hope you are enjoying the squirrels and yard D
          And happy binging and relaxing Brad
          ☀️☀️

          Liked by 2 people

  14. I feel the same as VJ about the music. Actually I really love music, but that’s why I can’t write and listen to it at the same time. I find myself getting right into the music, even with classical music I’m waiting for a recurring musical phrase or theme, and then I find I’m not thinking about writing anymore. It just doesn’t work for me. I love the cover of your new book, and I know the story inside is thrilling and fulfilling.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. I’m not surprised that a lot of us can’t write to music, Anneli. I find it distracting, or it just dictates the tone of whatever I write. I’m so glad you like the cover of the book. I’m busily getting things ready to launch and I know it will be here before I know it! Enjoy your weekend.

      Liked by 2 people

        1. Hi Anelli – thanks for sharing about how music doesn’t work for you – and it was interesting what you said about classical music . 🎶🎶

          Liked by 1 person

        3. Yes! I get that and so I should have said that it doesn’t work for while writing (or concentrating on writing details)
          A while ago while finishing a big writing project I had a writing playlist of about 75 easy listening songs that looped and looped as I wrote – Kenny Chesney, Delirious, Jami Smith, Lionel Richie, etc – and I became so used to it that I didn’t really hear (maybe like someone being nose blind to their home scent) but I can understand how some folks need or prefer the quiet
          ☀️😊🎶

          Liked by 1 person

  15. Wonderful and fun interview, Diana and Yvette. I listen to music when I write but it has to be instrumental. I love the instrumental soundtracks from Game of Thrones and the Twilight movies. I’m with Diana on using any extra £500 on a major book promo splurge.

    Wishing you both all the best, and can’t wait for The Necromancer’s Daughter to release! Have a wonderful weekend. Hugs 💕🙂

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thanks for the visit, Harmony. I think I could listen to music if I was writing poetry, but Games of Thrones! Lol. That would be way too evocative! But it sounds like fun. And yes, wouldn’t a big book promo be great. I’d hire staff for a day to run it. Have a great weekend, my friend. Hugs.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Harmony – I did not even think of the GOT soundtrack for a music option – and will check it out (even if not for writing it sounds like it could be good for other times – even yoga) – and I sure loved the series so now you have me curious about the tracks!

        Also / thanks for sharing what you’d spend the money on – a book promo like d.
        I think I would have weekend getaway to south fla

        Liked by 2 people

  16. Wonderful interview, Yvette, thank you. I loved learning more about Diana. I realized that we share much in common, even the simple things like nature and silence. My diet is not Keto but close, and I definitely adhere to an organic way of life.💗

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    1. I know you’re a nature lover, Gwen, and I’m not surprised that you have an organic way of life. I feel like I’m pampering myself when I dig in the garden or bring home fresh food from the market. It’s a gift to the old bod. Lol. Thanks so much for stopping by Yvette’s to check out the interview. It’s felt like a conversation! Have a great weekend. ❤

      Liked by 1 person

    2. Hi Gwen – thanks for joining us for the interview – and regarding the organic – a while back I didn’t think it mattered and slowly I saw a difference with organic products – especially when it comes to coffee! My body seems to do better with organic (and I heard that there is a “clean fifteen organic” or list of items that are crucial to try and go organic with like strawberry, spinach, kale, – nectarines, apples, grapes, peaches, cherries, pears, tomatoes, and celery – those items are crucial to get organic and were in order of toxicity (kripalu.org) but we don’t eat much fruit at all….
      Anyhow – the little smart choices add up so I guess we just do the best we can
      ☀️🙏

      Like

  17. What a super fun interview! I just love Diana’s enthusiasm that comes across in her answers. She is a wonderful contributor to the Story Empire blog and I always learn something from her posts. I have to say I absolutely LOVE this new book cover. Then I read the blurb and I’m sold. I’m standing in line with my hand up! Thank you, Yvette for this thoughtful interview and Diana thank you for your thoughtful answers!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. You write the best comments, Jan. I’m glad my enthusiasm comes through. I would never have continued blogging if it weren’t for the great people I’ve met on WP, and that’s the God’s honest truth. And thanks for the lovely comment about the cover and blurb. Yay! I hope you enjoy it when it floats to the top of your kindle this fall. 🙂 Hugs.

      Liked by 2 people

      1. Hi Jan – I plan on checking out Story Empire now that I know about it (and I need to check out your stories from the road series).
        I agree that we can feel Diana’s enthusiasm and I was glad she happened to have time this past week when I reached out to her.
        Hope you have a nice week ahead
        😉
        Yvette

        Liked by 1 person

        1. I didn’t realize you weren’t familiar with Story Empire. Wonderful info for writers, Yvette. Jan’s been running a series on Marketing that is loaded with information, and she tries everything before sharing her thoughts and results.

          Like

        2. Thanks Diana and I meant to mention story empire to you during our emails – I look forward to checking it out and already saw a recent post on your blog! I think I recall seeing it mentioned a while ago but don’t realize it was resources and tips / I just assumed it was a place for sharing more short stories and poetry and the last thing I want in my feed is more weekly literature /
          I have enough TBR and my brain can only read so much before it starts resisting more content – lol

          Liked by 1 person

  18. Enjoyed the interview, Diana 🙂 Based on your writing genre, I would never have imagined that your were once a children’s mental health counselor. It’s also a surprise that you don’t listen to music. Music is an integral part of Caribbean and Brazilian cultures. When writing, I play music that puts me into the emotional mindset of the scene I’m working on. I enjoyed Priorhouse’s very upbeat musical selection 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I loved working with children, Rosaliene. They’re creative and funny and resilient despite growing up in so very difficult situations. But I’ve always been a fantasy reader (my dad had hundreds of fantasy and sci-fi paperback books that he’d pick up at the thrift store and all of us kids read them). I know that music is a huge part of many cultures and I do love it, especially music that makes me want to cha-cha around the house. But it’s way too distracting when I’m trying to write. I have lots of friends who love writing to music and you must be one of them. 🙂 Thanks for the visit and Happy Writing. ❤

      Liked by 2 people

    2. Hi Rosaliene, thank for joining us for this interview – I could imagine various times when you mentioned Caribbean and Brazilian music – 🎶🎶 and as a former art teacher – for about four years we had cubism lessons in January and that led to Spanish guitar music (with some of Picasso’s cubist pieces) which led to making castanets ( with cardboard and buttons) and mini drums or stringed instruments and – and then some Brazilian gaucho music:

      Liked by 1 person

  19. This interview triggered too many thoughts to write out here, lest I wind up writing a blog post to a blog post. But I’ll share a few.

    “Jump in with both feet and doggy paddle like mad until [you] figure it out.”

    Versions of this advice have been around for a long time, from ‘Perfect is the enemy of good” to Nike’s “Just Do It.” I know it to be true. Yet as a lifelong perfectionist, it still trips me up. It’s something I’ve been focused on and getting better at; but then I wind up in a paradoxical loop of trying to be “perfect at not being perfect.” Reading Diana’s unique wording here and taking it from the real person I know her to be just “sounded” different to me today and sparked some immediate ideas on things I’ve been putting off with regard to my own books and promotion for too long.

    “Share a song that brings a smile.”

    Like Diana, I cannot listen to music while I read or write (and a good many other things). I am someone who gets wholly absorbed in whatever I set my attentions to. So listening to music while ____________ would split my attentions. (In fact, my brain tries to focus on both, and that is counterproductive.) And yet, music has been an enormous part of my life. I would even say that certain songs have been life-changers for me. I myself am a lifelong singer/songwriter, as well as a writer/author (and a good many other things). I am quite literally the most eclectic person I know where it comes to music. Yet I’m very selective at the same time. I don’t ever listen to just “background music,” at least not if I’m making the choices. I’m an intentional listener. A song must meet at least one of three criteria in order for it to make the cut (preferably more):

    1.) The lyrics (if lyrics exist) must cause me to feel something.

    2.) The music must cause me to feel something.

    3.) The song must cause me to think something new (whether due to production, instrumentation, style, cultural insights, personal insights about others, etc.).

    Here is a song that meets criteria #2 and #3 for me, I think particularly in conjunction with the video. It feels like summer and joy and human connection to me: Sigala: Sweet Lovin’.

    “What would you do with an extra $500”

    Like Diana, I would most likely spend it on additional book promotion right now, especially having just released my third book in late April. Few non-authors ever realize the work that goes into writing just one book, let alone many. But it doesn’t end there, especially for those of us who choose self-publishing. Promotion never ends. It is its own form of creativity, but like writing, it’s also hard work. The only way to decrease that work is to pay someone else to do it, and that can quickly get expensive.

    Thanks to both of you, Yvette and Diana, for continuing to make the blogger community a true community.

    [Imagine if I had shared all my thoughts? Ha! You can tell I’m a writer at heart.]

    Liked by 1 person

    1. So much to comment on, Erik. First, “perfect at not being perfect.” Lol That cracked me up, but I can relate too because I was a perfectionist for a long time. I think I just ran out of time and had to be satisfied with what I could do at the moment. I realized that there are a lot of things that I can do “half-assed but good enough for me.” 🙂

      And we aren’t alone here with the need for silence when we write, or in your case do something else that requires your focus. It’s kind of funny that I don’t listen to music because I enjoy it so much that I lose my focus. You’ve mentioned before that you sing, I remember. 🙂

      And yeah, writing is a lot of work, and marketing doubles the effort and time. I’m still looking for the silver bullet of marketing ideas, and I haven’t found it. Money helps, but even that isn’t enough. There’s that huge dose of good luck and being in the right place at the right time with the right movers and shakers. 🙂

      Thanks for taking the time to head over to Yvette’s and read her fun interview. She set it all up so well. It feels like a conversation! Happy Weekend, my friend.

      Liked by 2 people

      1. My counter-measure to being a perfectionist is strikingly in line with something you said here, Diana. While I am a perfectionist at heart, I am also fully aware (as I put it) that “my half-assed is better than most people’s full-assed.” A friend of mine put it to me this way some years back: “You want to give people caviar. But most people are used to cold gruel. So if you give them warm mashed potatoes with a little butter, it’s the same to most people as caviar.”

        That’s not arrogance. Most people feel it is somehow virtuous to know and speak about their faults often. But if we don’t know and speak about (and feel comfortable knowing and speaking about) our strengths as well, then we can’t ever maximize them. By analogy, money we don’t know we have is money we can’t spend, which is the same as having no money at all.

        As you’ve said many times of yourself, the older I get, the less I care what anyone else thinks about me or what I do. Again, that is far from my arrogance, ambivalence or antipathy. I’m just comfortable with who I am and what I do at this point in life. I’ll always be aware of what could have been done better. It’s how my brain works. But I can also now see that, acknowledge it… and most often say, “Meh, it’s good enough. Move on.” Still, today’s interview post here was a timely reminder of all of this. So again, thanks to you both.

        Liked by 2 people

        1. I love the analogy about the warm mash potatoes with butter. Lol. That’s perfect and so true. And sometimes that’s exactly what people need even if we think they’d prefer caviar. I also liked the “Meh, it’s good enough. Move on.” That’s part of prioritizing and we Must do it, because there just isn’t enough time to put 100% into everything. I put my very best efforts into some areas of my life (like writing and family stuff). Does 100% equal perfection? Not even close, but it’s the intention that is most important to me. The rest… housework, cooking, painting the deck… meh, it’s good enough. 🙂 Love chatting with you, Erik, always. It’s so much fun. 🙂

          Liked by 2 people

    2. Hi Erik – I enjoyed your comments and Diana’s replies – nice to meet you
      And now to chime in here

      First – I enjoyed that song you shared and wanted to add it with the link

      Liked by 1 person

        1. Hi Erik
          That Bing Crosby song does show your wide range of taste ! And it was new to me
          Thanks for sharing it here – because it was a nice end of the day song!
          🎶🎶🎶

          Liked by 1 person

    3. You mentioned that this interview post was a catalyst for many thoughts – that is how I felt with your comments.
      For example – I just say a t-shirt that had the famous “just do it” on the front – and then at the bottom it said “then do it again”
      (That then reminded me of the Bob Newhart skit with Just Stop It:

      Anyhow – whoever was on the marketing team to crest the Just Do It slogan must be super proud because it sure was successful – and as you noted – the “just get the heck up and it it” mindset can be a key motivational factor (and as DWP noted – it allowed her to see that when she does “just do it”- she can doggie paddle and make things happen).

      🐾🐾

      Regarding the strengths you pointed out! Whew – enjoyed the way you worded it because it felt like confidence and self-awareness rather than cocky boasting
      I think that so many people wrestle with understanding the difference between healthy confidence and puffed up ego that elevates self to tower over others (which usually relates to underlying shortcomings and insecurities – )
      So it was nice to read the way you shared about being eclectic and good at this and that.
      It also connects to “strengths-based” positive psychology tenets, which aim to help people stop seeing what is wrong and they find their top 20 strengths, then top ten and then top three and then try to find ways to tap into that more for a more enjoyable life
      (Some folks are like a monkey trying to swim like a fish – when they need to “see” their strengths and what they were wired for – )
      I think of this wiring with
      self-publishing and then marketing/promoting a book – I have noticed that some very talented writers just cannot switch gears and go from writing to then promoting!
      some can promote other people’s work but not their own – then there are some writers who just don’t have the skills to promote anything – and so they might need to realize it might not be lack of motivation – it might be wiring and maybe they need to outsource.
      //
      Thanks again for the comments Erik –

      Liked by 1 person

      1. I’d never seen the “Stop It” clip. Thanks for sharing it.

        Your added comments caused me to want to add another category beyond (or between?) strengths and weaknesses. That is, things we may be good at but don’t enjoy.

        I can’t tell you the number of times in my life people have said to me some version of “You should have been a [doctor / lawyer / computer analyst, etc.]. You’re so good at __________________.” And my reply is always the same: “I am good at ______________, but I don’t like doing it.”

        “I am good at dealing difficult people. But I don’t like it.”

        “I am good at argumentation and can corner someone logically. But I don’t like it.”

        “I am good at self-promotion. But I don’t like it.”

        Etc.

        I think the self-published writer not only needs to be aware of strengths and weaknesses—to stop being a monkey who’s trying to swim like a fish”—but to also be aware enough to say “I can do X… but I don’t like it”; and, where possible, to do less of those things. Because everything we say yes to means saying no to something else—potentially something more important or fulfilling. Conversely, rather than thinking of saying no as being somehow mean or irresponsible, it’s a wonderful thing to be able to confidently see each no as saying yes to something else. This has been a real life-saver for me and is something I speak and write about often as well.

        That being said, the self-published author often also just has to realize that, sometimes, we must do things we aren’t great at or don’t like to do (or both) at least for a time. And that’s where “Meh, good enough, move on…” becomes helpful, at least for me.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. Hi Erik
          Your note about the “being good at something but not wanting to do it” also ties into Diana’s choice to walk away from counseling children – she reached the “done” point
          😊

          And I like how you said the self published author might have to do certain things “for a time” – meaning it won’t be forever but might be a “cross to carry” temporarily and so maybe they need to “just do it” or strategize ways to get help.

          📚📚

          Oh and for me – it would have been the lawyer profession that I would have been really good at and year ago folks said I missed my calling – (I am a psychologist and feel I have lived the exact path I needed to for me) but the truth is that I probably could have had HUGE success as a lawyer because I am good at arguing, using details and facts for support, and for thinking on the spot with numerous options for the next point coming easily for me. And when we had to save money on lawyer costs back in the 1990s (my husband’s ex gave us hell about visitation and she was miserable to work with – sigh – but it worked out in the end) anyhow – I did some legal writing and filled paperwork / and I did so well I got a letter from the state of CO saying I had to stop practicing law wig kit a degree (still have the letter in the large box of paperwork) – and sometimes I used to agree and think I missed out on that but the truth is that even tho I might be good at such and such – I think 25 years of it would have smothered me and drained me way too much!
          😔

          Oh and I look forward to checking out your latest book

          Liked by 1 person

  20. My husband always has the television blaring! It’s maddening! This was a fabulous interview and as always I learned something new about life, Diane, and to always comment, comment, comment so the Beat Goes On…C

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I think I’ve mentioned before, Cheryl, that we’re married to twins who don’t know they’re related. That television is maddening, isn’t it? Every time my husband gets up, I turn it down just a little hoping he won’t notice and turn it up again. 😀 I’m glad you enjoyed the interview and appreciate your visit. Have an amazing weekend!

      Liked by 1 person

    2. Hi Cheryl – nice to meet you and the end of your comment made me smile because I love how you added the note about commenting and how the best goes on! Ahhhh
      🎶🎶

      And you both noted your spouse’s have the TV blaring and that reminded me of my FIL- who always had one of his three TVs blaring !
      Well one thing we did was asked him to turn it off for 15 minutes – it reset the ear threshold and so then turning it back on led to a much lower volume
      So for example – if he had it on level 10 and went to a 7 – he couldn’t hear it the way he wanted it !

      So if it went off – to a level zero – his ears adjusted for approx 15 minutes – then putting it back on – a level five sounded loud enough

      Something like that…
      📺💥🎧

      Like

      1. Craig – thanks for the comment and Diana – I have said it before – but i think this interview came together so well because it was unplanned and we both had time this week – and our little back and forth via email gave me some nice tidbits !
        Thanks again For the support Craig

        Liked by 1 person

  22. Totally loved this fun interview and its interesting range of questions, especially your thoughts on how you approach music and nature. I find both music and nature inspire me; it truly depends on the inspiration I am seeking and the mood I am in.

    I love the song “Shivers” by Ed Sheeran and, right now, an extra $500 would pay my college enrollment fee. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. “it truly depends on the inspiration I am seeking and the mood I am in.” I like that comment, Jaya, and it sort of explains why I can’t write with music on. I’d have to switch songs and artists every ten minutes as the nature of the scene I’m writing changes! My head would spin. Lol. But I can totally relate to how music and nature inspire you. They are both powerful influences. Have a lovely weekend filled with both, my friend. Hugs.

      Liked by 1 person

    2. Hi Jaya – similar to Diana, I can relate to what you mean with how it depends on your mood and current needs!
      Also / best wishes with school and I checked out that song you shared – nice beat!

      Liked by 1 person

  23. A terrific interview Yvette and Diana. I can resonate with Diana’s comment, comment, comment statement. It surprises me how many bloggers just hit “like ” on posts and let it go at that. Also, I’m more than surprised when commenting on a post and only receiving a “like” in return. I have been blogging for almost ten years and most of my time is spent commenting. If I had the $500,000 like Diana I would spend it on a fancy pants book promotion. That would be so much fun. Thanks again for a delightful post.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thanks for the visit, John. I agree with you that a “like” when we take the time to comment is not good blogging etiquette at all. I also get links dropped into my comments now and then with a “check out my blog/book” (or no comment at all). Those go straight into the round file. Yeesh. But it took me a while to figure out that blogging is social, so maybe they’ll catch on. And yeah. Wouldn’t a big fancy pants book promotion be great? I’m dreaming. LOL. Thanks for the visit!

      Liked by 2 people

    2. Hi John
      I think there might be a time for liking a comment -(like if it is after a few back and forth comments and time to wrap it up) but not if a starting comment and someone wrote with genuineness –

      Because a little reply can go a long way!

      And thanks for sharing what you would do with $500 – seems many folks have gone with book promo stuff
      ☀️📚😊

      Liked by 1 person

        1. John – I liked that too and wondered if it was something Google or Amazon offered for authors – “publish with us and for $499.99 you can have a fancy-pants promo package”
          📚📚📚

          Like

  24. I love the interview!
    So much fun to see Diana’s new book and love the characters and story line!
    This is relatable and I’m laughing as I get it completely.
    “Then I started blogging, I was also completely clueless. (That’s my MO, Yvette, jump in with both feet and doggy paddle like mad until I figure it out.)

    Love the Comment, Comment, Comment as I’m reaching across our community one by one to see if they saw me in reader yesterday. Most haven’t and so I’m in a bit of WP fog (like Covid .. yes.. another bug.. YIKES) but without my relationships and friends I would never feel comfortable asking. It’s critical.

    How true is this!!!!!

    👏👏👏👏👏

    Priorhouse: I love the three comment words.

    In real estate we have “location, location, location.
    In relationships and consulting we have “communicate, communicate, communicate”
    In skin care we have “exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate”
    With the immune system we have “gut health, gut health, gut health”
    With blog connecting we have “comment, comment, comment

    Thanks for your words and music as the beat goes on (listening now).
    You both light the path in our blogosphere community which is inspirational!
    I need both and am going to hit the trails soon.

    So exciting the book is almost here!!! 13 WOW!!!

    💖💖👏👏👏🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks for dropping by Cindy, and I’m glad you enjoyed the interview. Yvette made it super fun and I feel like we were sitting across the table for this. I was so darn clueless, Cindy, when I started blogging. I got only 8 likes my whole first year. I was completely anti-social. Lol
      Blogging is super time-consuming and I’m appreciative of every single person who takes the time to stop by and say hi. At the same time, I know that everyone is trying to juggle a bazillion other priorities, so it’s no sweat when they don’t have time. Another bug? Oh no,. Rest up, my friend. Take a book outside and read. I hope it’s short-lived. Hugs.

      Liked by 2 people

      1. It’s always a pleasure to read and support you. You are a rock star.
        Yvette is the best and I had the pleasure to be interviewed by her as well so I know how great she is!!!
        There is soooo much to learn and I’m still learning in the blogging community for sure Diana!! It takes time and it isn’t for the weary for sure.
        I soooo much agree with you on every level.
        Oh my yes and it sounds like I’m not alone. I’m not showing up in Reader. lots of bantering back and forth with them.
        I’d like to be type D instead of A so it didn’t bother me so much…., next life? Don’t sweat the small stuff right?!
        Thanks a lot,,I’ll have extra fuel walking today 💖💖😂😂😂

        Liked by 2 people

        1. That’s a pain that you’re not showing up in Reader. I don’t use Reader that much. Instead, I have your posts set up to spill into email on Sundays. Just in case I miss you during the week, I can always catch you then. I hope that gets fixed for you!

          Liked by 2 people

        5. Hi Cindy
          Thanks for taking the time to read and comment!
          I must share that I NEVER see your posts in my reader and I have unfollowed and refollowed.
          And the reason I get your posts is because you usually drop by to say hi on my blog!
          And that ties in here because as Diana was offering tips – and the topic of commenting came up – Cindy – you also model the commitment to commenting and I want to mention that because it keeps you present!
          “Out of sight – out of mind”
          But
          “Leaving a comment and it makes your presence known”-

          And Cindy – I was actually going to see if we could do another interview sometime this year because the first one we did was in “acquaintance mode” as we had just met over at Middle Me (and by the way – I never get her posts in my reader anymore either – but I get many blogs I don’t remember even following)
          Anyhow we can chat about it later and thanks again to Diana for this weekend “party at Priorhouse ”
          It has been fun!
          🎉🥳📚

          Liked by 1 person

        6. It’s always a pleasure Diana and I’m really happy you are letting me know all of this because I’ve been in contact south WP for 3 days and they say it is a problem with my followers saying they follow me but don’t. Blah. I’m going to try to make a post on it today if I can muster it up. It’s so maddening. Thanks a lot!
          My word that’s crazy!
          Re : being in reader
          Yvette – thank you so much for letting me know. Turns out my comments are necessary which is of course not why I comment. Drives me crazy but a good example to your COMMENT COMMENT COMMENT TIP you BOTH Said.
          Now I know I have to continue that path until they figure something out.
          And Yvette – That would be great fun to do another one with you. Let’s do it maybe in Dec or the new year.
          I will be featured in Sept in MMS coaching international in an interview which will be very cool by the founder and my mentor in life coaching which is exciting
          I don’t seem to get Kally all of the time either which is so weird.
          Have a great day and again fab interview!!
          Thanks for the invaluable comment.

          Like

        7. Good morning Cindy – ☀️☀️☀️I saw Kally in my feed last night so I guess I get her posts sometimes.

          Regarding the posts making it to the reader – I think even if your posts “do” make it to the reader you will still want to visit and comment to build your community – but of course you already know that and you seem to have a great approach to blogging!
          There is such an energized community and welcoming feel at your blog – and an openness with the readers who interact there!

          Congrats on the sept interview and for a PH one – I was already thinking of December because it will be two years after your December 2020 interview (or the start of 2023 would work)- I am not sure if I will do the interviews forever – but wanted to do about 100 and I am Almost halfway there! –
          -///
          Wishing you and everyone a great Monday and may we all end the month of June with some continents and joy in spite of what might be going on around us!
          //
          We have air in our lungs – nature for some reprieve – God’s sunshine – and a life to keep living “ad the best goes on”
          ☀️🎶🎶🎶🎶

          Like

        10. Glad you mentioned your Monday – Wed And Friday schedule because that is another thing that helps – when a blogger is consistent like you are – I sometimes think of them – like I know you always do Fri-yah and over the weekend I might remember and wonder what you offered up that time
          And Linda has been doing wordless Wednesday for years now and so I think of her that day!
          With that said – I have a loose schedule and like it for now

          Like

  25. A wonderful interview, Yvette and Diana. The line “comment, comment, comment” hit close to home. I make a point to always answer comments on my own blog and try to visit others. However, life has gotten so busy of late and I don’t have as much time as I’d like. I’m retiring at the end of August and that’s one of the things I plan to do. Visit more and comment. I know I’m missing some great content out there.

    Looking forward to your new book, Diana.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. I think we’re all getting busier and busier, Joan. What’s up with that?? I know that you’re conscientious about replying to comments and visiting, seems that way to me anyway. Please don’t fill your retirement time to the brim with more busy-ness. It’s easy to do. Make sure to enjoy yourself too and do some of those fun things you’ve been putting off. Thanks so much for stopping by and enjoy your weekend!

      Liked by 2 people

    2. Hi Joan
      Nice to meet you
      I appreciate you sharing your comment about commenting – and it reminded me that I have missed some on my own blog!
      Ugh – it usually happened if I took a couple weeks off – when I came back i didn’t really check all the recent posts and started blogging.
      Anyhow – I cringe at the fact that I let that happen (ignored comments – and most were good) and try not to do it anymore!
      Congrats on getting ready to retire – I agree with Diana on the warning to not max out with other areas – because we all know that can be easy to do.
      And I have a feeling that you will have a few phases in the first year or so – maybe indulging in this or that – then moving on to something else – hmmmm – retirement can be so different for everyone and i think having “writing” and “blogging” waiting for you is a huge plus – my FIL got clobbered in retirement because he had very few hobbies or interests!
      Best wishes to you as the final months of working unfold
      🤍☀️😊

      Liked by 1 person

  26. You and I followed each other since July 2018, Diana. I learned something new about Diana every time I read her interviews. I didn’t know you don’t listen to music! I know music can be distractive sometimes. When I was a student in Portland, I told a professor about having music to fill in the gaps when I studied. He said it would fill in too many gaps for him. 🙂

    I love your challenges and took part in speculative fiction, the muse, and TBR file, Diana! I wasn’t surprised by the overwhelming responses. You made every blogger feel special about their entries.

    I learned so much about building the blogging community from you. One tip opened my eyes and I still practice it, and that is, when bloggers make a comment on my post, I visit them right away and comment on their post. It works magically. I also find out their names so when I return to my blog, I could address them by names in my responses.
    My husband and I are health nuts also. I haven’t had processed meat for more than ten years. One time a friend invited us over for her party, she served bratwurst. I had the most violent vomiting in her bathroom!!

    Congratulations on your upcoming new release. I’m anxious to see the parade to celebrate your new creation.

    Thank you so much for this mini-interview and the great questions, Yvette. I love all the support we have for each other in this blogging community. You and I must follow each other before 2018 because you made valuable suggestions on how to format the photos in my poetry book which was published in 2018. Then you came over to my blog to present Lady by the River.

    Cheers to our friendship, Diana and Yvette! Have a wonderful weekend.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. What a lovely comment, Miriam. I’m delighted to have known you for four years now. It seems longer doesn’t it? Your professor cracked me up. I think I’m like him. I wouldn’t get a thing done if I listened to music. I certainly wouldn’t be listening to books and my reading would be cut by 3/4.

      And you were so awesome to participate in all the prompts. That was such fun. I miss doing it routinely, but such is life. The interaction and creativity was amazing. I’m glad you picked up on the idea of returning visits for comments too. Your blog has grown tremendously and I’ll bet that’s why.

      And you’re so funny. I’m working on the “parade” tour. I hope I don’t bore everyone to death. Lol. But I’m kicking off each blog stop with a review of the hosts book, so that will make them feel different and hopefully we’ll all sell books! Thanks for the visit, my friend. Looking forward to seeing you in person!

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Hi Diana, I studied singing and I’ve been singing most of my life. I love opera and classical music. I used to have soft music in the background when I did my study, writing, and research. I just noticed that I haven’t turned on the music for months!! What happened? I have to listen to some music before bedtime though.

        I saw Cee followed you and made comment on this post. I so look forward to you in person.

        Liked by 2 people

        1. I remember that you posted a while ago a video clip of your singing. It was beautiful, Miriam. What a gift to share with the world. And yes, I’ve connected with Cee and Marsha. Always happy to make friends!

          Liked by 1 person

        2. I learned to do trailer from you. It was fun to do it as mp4 and upload on to YouTube. I don’t sing solos because the cancer ruined my voice. I still sing in groups.

          I think Chris, Cee’s wife is a grief counselor, but I lost track. We may meet her briefly when she drops off Cee.

          Liked by 2 people

        4. Diana a I am
          Glad Miriam can still sing too even if not the pre-cancer level – and I enjoyed when she shared her music a while back –
          🎶☀️

          Liked by 1 person

      2. Hi Miriam – thanks for your comment here and I think we started following each other in late 2016 but connected more in 2017 !
        And thanks again for giving the Lady by the River book some space on youro blog!
        You do so well with the variety of posts on your blog and have Introduced me to many authors / most recently J. Biggar and Harmony Kent – so thanks for that too.

        Regarding what your professor said – I did get his point! And some folks might need to “fast” from music (or TV or social media) so they can quiet down and focus and NOT fill in too many gaps —
        That also reminded me of a story I heard about a director who would not let his actors listen to music on their breaks while filming! I guess that the music impacted them so much that they would have a difficult time getting back into character! So “no music”!

        Liked by 1 person

  27. This interview was just like having a nice coffee with Diana and Yvette. Always interesting to learn more about fellow bloggers.
    Totally agree that visiting other blogs and commenting is the way to connect. And responding to comments! I will just note that even a “like” can establish a connection. I regularly go the page that shows my posts (sidebar of the My Home page) and click on “Stats” by a specific post (which is found by clicking on the 3 dots). That shows you a gallery of all the bloggers who “liked” that post. Clicking on a blogger’s photo or other image takes you to their blog. I don’t always comment, but at least I get an idea of who has visited my blog.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. I do the same, Audrey – return visits for “likes” and like you, I don’t always comment there, but sometimes I find great posts and a new connection starts. What I didn’t know is that you can reach the “likers” through stats! I’ve been finding them through Notifications but they drop off after 10, and sometimes I miss some. Thanks for the tip! The interview did feel like a coffee klatch didn’t it. I really thought Yvette did a nice job with that. It’s been a pleasure to hang out with her. Have a great weekend, my friend. Enjoy the garden!

      Liked by 2 people

    2. Hi Audrey – here is some virtual coffee ☕️
      And thanks for the tip about accessing through stats! I will check that out!
      Also, thanks for mention “responding” to comments because that is just as important as leaving them.

      Liked by 1 person

  28. Great interview, Yvette! I admit feeling a bit relived to read that you don’t listen to music much either, Diane. I always felt a bit odd that way. Although I do enjoy music (and love to dance) music doesn’t fill my day. I discovered Diane’s blog when she hosted the TBR challenge and have enjoyed reading it ever since. I’m looking forward to the release of The Necromancer’s Daughter.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thanks for taking the time to read, Janis. I’m like you, I think, when it comes to music. I enjoy it, but it just doesn’t fit in with other priorities. And I do like silence too, when I get those rare moments when the world is quiet. It’s been fun connecting with you, and I love your writing. Have a wonderful evening and Sunday!

      Liked by 2 people

    2. Hi Janis – thanks for joining us for the interview – and I caught the very end of the TBR challenge and enjoyed It.
      Wishing you a great week ahead (with it without music – ha 🎶)
      🤍😊

      Liked by 1 person

  29. Fabulous 10 questions with excellent nuggets of advice sprinkled in there. If I had 500 dollars to splurge on something, I’d by a bunch of books because really, books are always a treat!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hi Priscilla – I am glad you mentioned buying books 📚📚because now that I read that – i think that would be a great way to spend that chunk of money – and could lead to a fun reading adventure!
      And thanks for joining us with this interview
      ☀️😊

      Liked by 1 person

  30. What a wonderful interview, Diana, and so lovely to learn more about how you switched careers and your fabulous new book. I’m with you regarding music – I can’t read or write with music on, either. Toni x

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks for dropping by, Toni. That was sweet of you. It seems like the music-writers and silence-writers are about a 50-50 split based on comments. I would listen to a lot more music if I wasn’t listening to books! Thanks so much for the kind comment and have a beautiful Sunday. Hugs.

      Liked by 2 people

  32. What a wonderful exchange between the two of you. Loved it! Wishing you all the best, Diana.

    Yvette, thank you for hosting. (BTW, I’m listening to “Bridge over Troubled Water” right now, which does not make me want to dance, but it does always remind me of my grandfather, and that always makes me smile.)

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hi Staci
      Thanks for joining us for this June mini interview – the comments have added to the experience!
      And the song you mentioned sounds like a great way to smile and remember your grandfather 🙏💛

      Liked by 1 person

      1. The comments always take things to the next level. It’s a great community.

        Thanks for dropping that video here. Even when it brings tears to my eyes, it brings a smile to my face.

        Like

        1. Staci / now I might just think of you anytime the song comes on!
          I don’t know it very well (but did know of it) and my dad (passed away many years ago) well
          He liked country music – and a few years ago – I recorded the entire concert of willie Nelson’s “outlaws and Angels” and when I finally got Around to watch it – guess what? It was on my dad’s birthday and I didn’t realize it until half way thru the concert!
          It felt like my dad was with me ad the music played! It was emotional but so good and touched my soul
          🎶🎶🎶

          Like

  33. Yvette, a lovely, informative and chatty interview with Diana – you always have a gift of making the interviewee feel totally relaxed and this reads so naturally it is as if I could ‘hear’ the conversation!

    Diana, wow! I knew you had written a lot of books and congratulations on your 19! That is an amazing achievement and best of luck with your latest release. The cover is divine (as always!) and I love the blurb for it! You are an inspiring writer and blogger, a fantastic friend to us all here on WP – you set the bar high but in the best possible way. It is a joy to be a life-long learner and I feel sorry for people who do not grasp this magical aspect of life! Af for nature – yes – always!! Just about to head out to the swing seat and treasure the fresh air, and the smell of roses more than ever.

    hugs to you both, take care xx ❤️

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thanks for the beautiful comment, Annika. Your kindness definitely brought a smile this morning. Yvette does make this feel like a little garden chat, doesn’t she? That was so fun. And thanks for the compliment on the book and blurb. I’m slowing down some, but am still looking forward to writing and sharing my work. And finally, I just love this community of writers and bloggers. It’s easy to find friendships as well as give back some of the wonderful support I receive. Keep learning and growing, my friend, and enjoy the swing seat. Hugs.

      Liked by 1 person

    3. Hi Annika
      It truly amazes me as to how each interview I do comes out so different ! Also/ I am getting a little better with it as the months have gone by and with yours (and Amanda’s interview) – I don’t think I double checked to make sure it was a good time for you both ! I just published and bam! Dropped them on ya. So in hindsight I am glad (grateful) you were available to come and connect with the interview – lol – but since that time I have learned to ALWAYS make sure the publishing date works for the interviewee!
      😬

      Thanks for your feedback, Annika, on this interview – this was a last minute idea because I had some extra time this month and it made for a very fun weekend (a Diana party 🎉)
      And hope both you and Diana got your nature fix this weekend as well
      🥬🍂☘️🌳

      Liked by 1 person

  34. Enjoyed learning more about Diana (and a few tidbits about you, Yvette) on this post. While I enjoy music, I’m the same as Diana and need quiet to write. The outdoors is also my sanctuary- I love the flower pics above, those hydrangeas, wow!
    Congrats on Diana’s upcoming release, the cover is captivating.
    Oh, yes, my song choice is: Aquarius: Let the Sun Shine In- https://youtu.be/vbCH5lnZ6sA

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thanks for dropping by Yvette’s, Jacquie. We’re not alone in needing silence to write, though there are a bunch of people here who love the inspiration writing gives them. And I smiled at your song choice. When I was about ten years old, my friends and I choreographed a dance to it that we used to perform in the playground at school. Lol. We took ourselves very seriously, but the teachers must have thought it was hysterical. Have a lovely Sunday, my friend. I hope you had a wonderful week of celebrating your anniversary. ❤ ❤ Hugs.

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    2. Hi Jacquie

      Guess what? You sort of helped make this interview happen – because it was your post I saw that mentioned Diana’s new book – the post sent me over there and then I thought of the interview – so thanks for that !

      And the song you chose was new to me and was quite wonderful – Diana – I could imagine you and the other children doing the choreography to that tune. (One I remember making group dance moves to was “We are family”)

      Also thanks for the comment on the flowers !
      The ones you mentioned are actually “viburnum” from a snowball bush but I think you really must know your flowers be sure everyone says they look very similar to hydrangea!
      And the funny thing is I had two snowball bush shrubs that i planted at the same time – one died within the first year and the other one (blooms were in that photo) is almost 14 years old! Crazy how some make it and others don’t when in the exact same soil, weather, etc
      Hope your weekend was a good one
      ☀️😊

      Liked by 2 people

        1. Hi Jacquie – I was still young and think I was still wearing a training bra 😊hahahaha and this girl Kelly was taking the lead on everything – lol
          🕺💃
          Oh and the snowball bush plants cost five dollars each! They were little starter ones about 12 inches high! What a deal – and I think I recently saw some sell (same size as my starters) for $12.00
          Anyhow – the shrub only blooms for about two weeks and mine is about 15 feet high and very healthy – I only feed it in late winter and trim it twice a year so it is easy easy
          Hope you get to try some out to see if they work for ya

          Liked by 2 people

        6. They are not very scented and they are medium to low attractants for pollinators – in my area at least –
          The flowers first emerge with bright green buds and brings a feeling of cheer – then the white eventually comes out and they are full and some branches droop now!

          I think they bloom for about three weeks — and the ones i bring in to my vase can last a week easily (I change the water every three days and add a drop of bleach and huge pinch of sugar)
          Email me if you want more info because I did almost lose my shrub by not pruning properly – and I hope you are able to try these

          Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks so much for the visit, Khaya. Yvette has some great questions, and it’s been lovely to visit with everyone here. I hope you’re doing well and enjoying the start of summer. Hugs, my friend. ❤

      Liked by 2 people

    2. Hi Khaya
      These interviews sure offer a nice way to connect and the comments have been a bonus – so thanks for adding yours and wishing you a great ending to the month of June as the final days are upon us ☀️😊☀️

      Liked by 2 people

  36. What a fun and personal interview with Diana. And I couldn’t agree more, if we don’t engage with our blog readers and followers, why should we expect anything back? You have to enjoy blogging and what comes with it to make it successful, or maybe you shouldn’t blog. It’s an investment of time for sure, but the community and rewards are worth it and become a second home for many. And I’m with Diana, I cannot write with background music – or noise, for that matter. Thanks for putting Diana in the spotlight Yvette, much deserved and a fun read. Hugs Diana ❤

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Hi! Thanks for your comment and it was my pleasure to feature Diana
      🌺🌸🌺🌸

      And regarding the rewards that come
      With the connecting – you are so right about that – !
      Although I do follow some bloggers that seem to just aim to share and go (and don’t want much back at all)
      For example – I follow a lady who posts a daily kind of journal and I only read it once in a while and have never gotten a reply if and when I left a comment
      I also follow a professor from
      England and she just paid tips for grad students – she doesn’t reply to comments and yet she consistently posts and offers so many helpful free resources –
      Anyhow – I guess it really comes down to our aim and audience.
      Hope you have a nice week

      Liked by 2 people

      1. Hi. I totally get you. Usually, bloggers that don’t bother responding, I don’t go back. But yes, there are some that post informative things that I pop by just for the info, lol 🙂

        Liked by 1 person

        1. Thanks – but I have unfollowed a few bloggers because they never reciprocated the visit and they just had the kind of blog that didn’t do much for me – that might sound crass – but recently a blogger came back and started up there blog again and after commenting there half a dozen times (on long self absorbed posts) it was easy to unfollow and free up my feed!
          Thanks again for your comments here

          Liked by 2 people

    2. Thanks for stopping by, Debby. It’s been great fun over here. I think the no-music writers are ahead of the music-inspired writers at this point. But that doesn’t mean we don’t love music. And I totally agree about the rewards of blogging connections being worth the time. They’re the best part! Just think how fun it will be when we all meet down in the islands. Lol. Have a wonderful week, my friend. ❤

      Liked by 2 people

      1. You said it girl. I’m ready! And yes, I don’t have a lot of writer friends who listen to anything while writing. I find the older I get, the less multi-tasking. LOL ❤

        Liked by 2 people

  37. This: ‘jump in with both feet and doggy paddle like mad until I figure it out’. A fabulous image that made me laugh out loud.
    Great interview and great advice as well. When I first started blogging, I read a post that recommended we forget about trying to ‘sell’ and just focus on connecting with people. A big part of that is talking to people in comments, starting /conversations/.
    Thanks to that initial advice, I’ve become part of an amazing community of writers and readers, many of whom have become real friends. That’s something money just can’t buy.
    Really looking forward to the new book, Diana. 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Hi – I Like that advice about not trying to sell and just work at being genuine and connecting
      I think it is also important for folks to not compare and to not feel insulted if there comment sections are not super active – everyone has a different blog vibe and some folks just seem to always have a hundred comments easily and then others hope to at least get two or three comments for a post!
      It sounds like you found a nice groove with your community – and that is the goal eh? To find what works for us …

      Liked by 2 people

      1. lol – I’m not Mother Theresa so I would love to sell more books, but that’s not why I write them. It’s not why I’m still blogging either. This community has allowed me to ‘be myself’, despite the fact that my passions are all over the place.
        It is a nice groove and I hope you find your ‘home’ amongst us too. 🙂

        Liked by 1 person

        1. Had to laugh at the mother Theresa comment – and it reminded me about how an item is worth it’s value when nicely priced (and a laborer is worth their wage) – something like that…
          Something we learned with charging for something vs giving it free has to consider how it will be received!
          We used to help with outreach for local events and when hamburgers and hotdogs and water bottles were free – There was much waste!
          But if they charged jut a bit – like a quarter for the water and fifty cents for the food – there was less waste!
          But when it was free we’d see a burger with one bite get tossed into trash – and half empty water bottles everywhere – the little cost changed the reception!
          /
          And i remember reading about when Seth Godin decided to give away his material – think it was early to mid 2000s – well that was a brilliant move because he was still in “building and growing” mode!
          And there was an artist on this show on CNBC- and he wouldn’t lower the price on his art- said it would insult his work – but the business coach said “you are staring out and to get some recognition – let a few pieces go for a deal and more folks can see your work” but that artist couldn’t grasp the way it would work for him!
          I know there is a fine line here if promo to insult (and by the way – I heard mother Teresa was not a very joyful person) and the fine line between insulting something vs launching it acanthus be tough!
          I could go on and on but I think we share a similar outlook with Diana – and come to this community with genuineness and openness (and like you said where we can be ourself)
          I look forward to connecting more in the coming months
          ☀️😊🙏

          Liked by 2 people

        2. That’s a great point about the value of free, Prior. And the balance between the price and what something is actually worth. You can have the best <> in the world, but if no one knows about it, what is it really worth? In a way, when Indies give books away from free, we’re actually paying the Reader to take a chance on us. Maybe we should forget about ‘free’ entirely and never drop our prices below, say, 90c.
          Really interesting insights. Thank you. 🙂

          Like

        3. Thank you for your insights too!
          And yes – I’d say be very careful before dropping the prices because it does kind of insult the work – or can lead to filters and faulty perceptions
          I learned this with art classes – I did some outreach with homeschoolers for two years – part of it was for me because I wanted to try this six hour workshops and had all these ideas that were flowing like a fast river – ha! But I also wanted to be a blessing and well – They did appreciate it but the five dollar classes were viewed as just that – five dollar classes – and so I later someone said that this is why the marketing schemes work where the price tag is high and then a markdown feels like a deal! For example- a shirt that says $85 on the tag and we see it for $20 – the perception is impacted!
          Anyhow – I think we both reached our point on this topic and so I will end my comment now – 😁

          Liked by 1 person

        6. Good point – and not dissing her life of service – but perhaps it is a reminder that humans can’t just pour out and give, give, give — because the tank needs to be refueled and running on fumes might take a great toll.

          Liked by 1 person

    2. Yeah, that’s me, Andrea. Neck craned and occasionally sputtering and choking on a mouthful of water. Lol. And I agree that selling has to be secondary to friendships. We have to promote too, but that’s my least favorite part of blogging by a mile! I’d much rather chit-chat, share news, and support other authors and bloggers. That’s way more fun. Thanks for the visit, my friend, and for the wonderful comment. Have a beautiful week. Hugs. ❤

      Liked by 2 people

      1. -snort- that sounds a lot like me! Aussies are supposed to be great swimmers, but a doggy paddle is about my limit too. 😀
        I started reading your blog because I really liked the first book of yours I read. I stayed because you treated /us/ like friends. I think kindness brings out the kindness in others…like a people magnet. 🙂
        -hugs back-

        Liked by 2 people

  38. Hi Yvette, it is wonderful to see Diana here talking about her new book and her life and writing. I learned a lot of new information about Diana from this post. It is lovely that her change of career at 50 has been so successful. Diana is an inspiration to the entire writing community. I participated in her muse challenge, her picture prompts and also her poetry challenge earlier this year (I think it was this year – haha, I lose track with blogging). Diana has a fabulous way of bringing out the best in other writers.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. What a sweet comment, Robbie. I’m so glad we’ve connected and I’m thrilled that you’ve enjoyed some of the writing challenges. I love that you participated! I wouldn’t say my career change was financially successful, but it’s been huge fun and very rewarding creatively and socially. It’s been a pleasure to hang out at Yvette’s and share some new info (she had some great questions). Thanks for stopping by and have a marvelous week, my friend. ❤ ❤ ❤

      Liked by 2 people

    2. Hi Robbie – I lose track of some of the challenges also and Could not believe the muse challenge was three+ years ago ?!
      Felt like one year!
      And I was so happy that Diana had time for this right when I had time and right when I wanted To do an unplanned one –
      And by the way – thanks for being part of the planned one for next month!
      Hope your week is off to a nice start
      ☀️😊

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  39. Loved the interview, Yvette. Thank you for giving Diana this wonderful opportunity to share a bit about herself and her work. Congratulations on the new release, Diana. Best wishes.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you for joining us Beem- The late June interview was a lot of fun and reminded me
      That sometimes peeling back a few layers and sharing can be enriching

      Liked by 2 people

    2. Thanks for stopping by to read, Beem. I’m a couple of months away from releasing my book, but I know the time of going to fly by! Where did June go? Have a great day and Happy Writing. 😀

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  40. Great interview Yvette!! Thanks for sharing Diana!! I’m always learning from these types of interviews and found this one very informative not only about the new book coming out, but how you got into writing Diana and your journey down that path!! My best to both of you!!

    Liked by 1 person

    2. Thanks for taking the time to read, Kirt, and glad you learned something new. I’ve been doing these a long time, so it’s especially fun when the questions go in new directions. Yvette put together a great conversation. Have a wonderful day, my friend. 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  41. What a great interview, and how wonderful to see Diana here. I was just thinking earlier that I hadn’t seen anything from her for a while and here she is. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    2. Thanks for the kind comment, Norah, and for taking the time to read. I feel like life gets busier and busier these days, and my caretaking roles continue to increase. But I love connecting when time allows, and Yvette was wonderful to have me over. I hope you’re enjoying your summer. Hugs.

      Liked by 1 person

        2. They are starting to get longer now, Diana. But we’re still experiencing our chilliest days. Today was the chilliest so far.

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  42. Another fabulous interview centered on the wonderful Diana Peach. Excellent job, Yvette. I love your questions and your own comments in between Diana’s. So agree with both of you about commenting on blogs. My problem is that I don’t know how to write just one sentence in a comment. My comments go on and on ….and on! It’s part of being a writer. 🙂 (By the way, the cartoon about “i wish I could find time to write” made me laugh and cringe. Urgh to people who don’t get us.) Anyway, I can’t wait for Diana’s new book. Cannot. Wait! Now, the song/music that lifts me up is “Good Morning, Starshine.” My heart leaps every time I hear/sing that song. When I’m writing or reading, though, it’s all classical. Hmmm, with that money? I’d love a nice speaker/sound system to spur me on while I’m listening to classical and writing.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hi!
      Thanks for sharing your feedback!
      The classical
      Music you mentioned reminded me a Third writing playlist I made (long time ago) and it had some songs from a “classical music for dinner” CD – and was quite a nice combination of smooth background / (some classical can be thunderous or just not for writing)
      – and cheers to your good morning star shine song.
      -/

      -/
      You brought up a good angle with the length of comments and how for writers it can be very easy to write long ones.
      For me it depends on my mood and I had to free myself up to do what I feel without feeling obligated.

      Two people influenced me – Mabel Kwong (writer) for her medium-long and thoughtful comments and then Amy Maranto (photographer) who had the gift and art of usually adding one sentence that connected so well with the post!

      Oh and regarding the comic – glad you mentioned it stood out because that might not have made it if we had this post planned for months – I likely would have used more of DWP’s images of book covers – but while putting it together I found that in my archives (and ugh – you are so right that many folks don’t get it ✍️🗒)

      Like

    2. I tend to write long comments too, Pam. Someone will comment, “I enjoyed your post.” And I’ll reply with a whole paragraph or two! Lol. Sigh. I really enjoyed the way Yvette structured the interview and added all the little tidbits of humor and music and flowers and pieces of our email conversation. It felt like we were having coffee or out for drinks. I’m so glad you’re excited about the new book – that makes me grin and gives me the jitters at the same time (you know how that goes, right? 🙂 ) And great song choice. I love that. Enjoy your music, Starshine. ❤ ❤ ❤

      Liked by 2 people

        2. Yes- breathe in and breathe out
          And maybe let’s add in some square breathing
          Not sure if you have seen this fun video (looks like Mr Clean

          Liked by 1 person

        3. I never heard it called square breathing before but I definitely practice this kind of breathe in and breathe out. It’s very helpful!

          Like

  43. What a great interview, Diana and Yvette! I, too, can’t listen to music while I write. In fact, music tends to just be background noise for me. Once upon a time, I knew every lyric to every song, but somewhere between the teen years and adulthood, I lost that skill. Lol! I also love losing myself in nature and try to do so at least once a week. 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thanks for the visit, Yvette. I had so much fun with this interview. I think the non-music writers have now passed the music-writers. I think we prioritize our interests and they constantly evolve, so who knows what the future will bring. And I can totally relate to your love of nature and the need to get out there to unwind. Have a great day and a wonderful slide into the holiday weekend. Hugs.

      Liked by 2 people

    2. Hi author Yvette Calleiro
      Thanks for your comment and ad Diana it’s – the non-music writers did take the lead here!
      Oh and similar to you – I no longer know all kinds of lyrics (or hit songs) but still very much rely on my variety of music playlists for enrichment!
      And cheers to finding what we need to help us thrive –
      ☀️📚😊

      Liked by 1 person

  44. It’s a pleasure to read another interview with you, Diana. Add me to the list of others who don’t listen to music while writing (anymore). However, I listen to it now and then. I love your idea of going to the spa with your daughter. Since I don’t have a daughter, if I came across an extra $500, I’d enjoy a trip to the spa with my daughter-in-law, who I love like a daughter. Nice to visit your blog for the first time, Yvette.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Wouldn’t a day of pampering be wonderful, Mary? Because of the cost, it’s a luxury that I’ve never indulged in beyond a massage. There’s always something else that’s a priority. I listen to music now and then too, but am much more likely to listen to books. That’s the only way I can read 8-15 books a month. Lol. Have a wonderful day and enjoy your long weekend, my friend. Happy Writing!

      Liked by 2 people

    2. Hi Mary – thanks so much for joining us for the interview and how nice to read you love ou daughter-n-law so much! That is a gift when it happens and the spa day that you and Diana mentioned does sound like a very good self-care investment!
      Back in 2013, my step-daughter and I had a spa day together and we drove an hour because in Williamsburg’ they had this “two for one” deal! Worth the drive and was wonderful
      Wishing you both a great rest of your day!
      ☀️😊☀️

      Liked by 1 person

  45. Yvette, you do write the most interesting interviews. Thanks for the link. I’m sorry that I’m so slow responding. I’m listening to your embed right now, but this is one that I don’t know. I’ve probably listened to it mindlessly kind of as I’m doing now while I write my response. I like it. Like, Diana, I don’t listen to music unless someone puts it into a blog, or I’m driving. Even though I’m doing it now, it is hard for me to concentrate and write. An extra $500 – wow, the last time I had that I bought plants, pots, new cushions, and little nicknacks for my patio as part of my WOTY – curating my home. I’d spend it on travel or entertaining. I love to visit people – especially bloggers where I see new places with someone familiar whom I’ve never met in person. It is such an enriching experience. This week I spent two amazing days with Janet of This That and the Other Thing when she visited me. It was an amazing experience – so comfortable spending time doing what we both love doing – photography and sightseeing. I smiled at the song, “Be Happy, Don’t Worry.”

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thanks for the visit, Marsha. Yvette does pull together a really fun interview and conversation. I love that concept of “curating your home.” I haven’t changed anything in my home in… years (too embarrassed to guess the number of years Lol). It definitely needs a purge, at the very least. Like you, I love to travel and now that I’m retired, that’s where the extra cast goes these days. Have a wonderful holiday weekend!

      Liked by 1 person

      1. I would love to put more dollars into travel. My husband loves to be at home – wherever that is. We do a lot of day trips.

        Liked by 2 people

    2. Hi Marsha – thanks for the comment and I feel like I have linked you too many times this year / but it is what it is (wow – did I really just use that tired and worn out phrase??)😳

      The song that makes you smile played instantly in my mind when I read it///

      ///
      It sounds like you and Diana have the travel love in common – and while I like it a little bit – I might be more like Vince and prefer day trips and my own bed! But because I travel to see family so much I think that wears me out as opposed to the fun kind of travel – hmmmm
      Hope you both have a great holiday tomorrow
      ☀️🇺🇸

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Thanks, Yvette. Great video! That was a fun post. The additional questions got me engaged. I bet a lot of people enjoyed that, too. Terri W. Schrandt and her husband are coming tomorrow to spend a few days with us. And we have a party in our condo for all the neighbors and our friends. Should be a lot of fun. What about you?

        Liked by 1 person

        1. Hi M- it does sound like you will have a wonderful time seeing Terri and with the neighbors
          We don’t have much going on for this fourth – – and right now we are “loosely” planning to go to an outdoor concert at 6 pm – a cool amphitheater called the dogwood dell – our good friend (James) is one of six sad players in the lineup – (not 100% yet tho)
          Thanks for asking
          ,)

          Liked by 1 person

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