From My Window
Star Tribune Article
The last few weeks have been exciting. Trey Mewes, a “Star Tribune” journalist based in Rochester, MN, wrote an article about me for the newspaper. Trey spent at least a half hour interviewing me and wrote a Q and A article. The title, “Rochester Author Harriet Hodgson Shares Her Experience with Grief,” begins on the front page of the Variety section and continues inside. I’m grateful for Trey’s time and insightful reporting.
My Book is a Finalist!
Winning: A Story of Grief and Renewal, released last fall, is an INDIES Book of the Year Award Finalist. Though my chances of being the top choice are slim, I’m thrilled to be a finalist. According to the email I received, “To make the shortlist—out of 2,500 entries—is impressive.” The purpose of the awards is to discover, review, and share works from university and independent publishers. According to Award Director, Christopher Nesbit, “The INDIES not only honors outstanding literary achievements but also helps to qualify and connect these exceptional books with librarians and booksellers alike. The top choices in 55 genres will be announced in June.
Television Appearance
To promote my latest book, Grief in Your Words, I was on KTTC Television’s Midwest Access program. Tom Overlie, a television and Rochester icon, interviewed me. During the interview I made several important points. First, when you write you’re expressing feelings in a healthy way. If you can’t write a paragraph, write a sentence. If you can’t write a sentence, write a phrase. If you can’t write a phrase, write one word on the calendar that summarizes your feelings for the day. I’ve expressed my feelings in 11 grief healing books and hope they help many people.
The Last Book
Grief in Your Words: How Writing Helps You Heal is my last book. I am dealing with some serious health issues and have other interests to pursue—writing articles, my Doodle Art, chairing the Arts and Decorating Committee, seeing great grandchildren and, if my plan becomes reality, serving on the Charter House Spiritual Committee. Sure, I’ll miss writing books but have plenty of things to do, and now is the time to do them.
Charter House Apartment Tour
Thanks to the Arts and Decorating Committee for making the apartment tour a huge success. Forty-two residents signed up for the tour and a few signed up via email. The tour ended with pie and coffee for everyone at Charter House. Activities Director Michelle Hoff arranged for the refreshments—lemon, pumpkin, and chocolate pie. Michelle looks a little dangerous with that spray can of whipping cream. Stand back!
Book Business
Technical Support
My granddaughter, Haley Earley, an independent photographer, designed this newsletter. She also manages my website. Though I can use publishers’ software and crank out manuscripts in record time, I’m not a technical whiz. I would be lost without my granddaughter’s help. She has saved me many times and I’m grateful for her expertise and patience. With two young, rambunctious boys, I don’t know how Haley manages to do all the things she does. In between painting walls and doing a superb job of interior design, Haley is also a minister’s wife. Amazing!
Quote of the Month
Importance of Grandparents
In this confusing and complex world, I think grandparents are needed more than ever. I’m blessed to be included in the next generation’s lives. This photo was taken at Dad’s birthday dinner. The boys were watching a video with the sound turned off and I narrated it for them. I’m proud to be a great grandma and believe Louisa May Alcott’s quote: Every house needs a grandma in it.
Grandpas are also needed too and, like grandmas, are role models for the next generation. I hope you get to interact with your grandchildren. Zoom can be a decent substitute for in-person visits if you live far away.