I’m thankful that events in Minnesota wrapped up well so that after three days of driving including great stops with friends, I reached warmer, pleasant northeastern Mississippi where my pear tree welcomed me with its sweet, ripe fruit. It’s usually through producing by the time I arrive, so this is a treat.
My ties to my Minnesota Amish neighbors and the local library have grown. This is the third year I’ve taught writing to up to eighteen area people. On October 28th we presented an Open House featuring their best writing. Several members have been published before. For others, this was the first time they have polished and released stories. I’m thrilled to see them thrive and feel validated and heard. My count my time with them as some of the most important work I do. Our classes resume in January via Zoom and then in-person when I return to Minnesota. Photos show Amish neighbor children harvesting my apples, and a photo of amazing Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds near Mansfield, Missouri, the largest project of its kind in the nation. I have to learn to reduce pixels in my new iPhone before I can post recent photos.
Mansfield is also the location of Rocky Ridge Farm, Laura Ingalls Wilder’s last and longest home with an excellent museum. Each year they host the Laura Ingalls Wilder Children’s Literature Festival, I’m among those being considered as next year’s keynote speaker.
More wonderful fun is that after we met in July at Fort William in Ontario, living relatives of Marguerite Wadin McKay McLoughlin, heroine of my Wilderness Wife book, arranged many photos in a detailed Snapfish book and gave me a copy. I am planning to write Marguerite’s sequel and they are tremendous help and encouragers.
I’m probably too busy but that keeps me happy and healthy
I’ve unloaded my car in Mississippi but am not yet unpacked, so for now receive my warmest greetings, enjoy the photos, and read my detailed newsletter which will arrive soon.
Until next time, may many blessings and all good wishes come your way,
Delores
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