Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Classical Guitarist Appears at the Denver Woman's Press Club

It was a special treat for us last Friday, when Michael Adams appeared at the Denver Woman's Press Club. He had selected some of his favorite melodies and compositions to play that night, and he played them beautifully. Michael has been playing classical guitar for fifteen plus years. It is easy to see how seriously he takes his art, and how much he enjoys playing. It was obvious that our members and guests enjoyed his performance too by the loud applause, and the smiles on their faces.

Sunday, October 24, 2010

The Denver Woman's Press Club


Last Friday, I had the privilege of presenting my latest book, Forbidden, to members of the Denver Woman's Press Club, and friends. It was delightful to appear in the beautiful Victorian home, enjoy good food and wine, while listening to a wonderful, classical guitarist. I am a relatively new member to the club, having joined only last year. I can honestly say the members have been very helpful and supportive.

The home is located on 1325 Logan Street, Denver. The club was founded in 1898, and currently has over 200 members, all published writers.

For more information on upcoming events, including the Unknown Writers' Competition which I am chairing this year, please go to: http://www.dwpconline.org/.

Go to Amazon to buy Forbidden.

Saturday, October 9, 2010

The Plague Cottages in Eyam, England


The plague cottages in the village of Eyam, Derbyshire, are still in use some 400 years later. I have visited the village several times, and never fail to be inspired by Reverend Mompesson, and the elders of the church who literally sacrificed themselves as they tried to contain the "Seeds of Doom."

Within the pages of Forbidden, (historical fiction) I have peppered the whole book with actual historical events such as the Washington and Sherman families, and also the village of Eyam.

Forbidden by Elizabeth Victoria Wallace. ISBN: 978-1-935605-34-8.

Friday, October 8, 2010

A Travelling Butcher

At first, when I heard Allan Carr (complete with microphone) I thought it was an antique auction taking place in the small village of Acle, England. I nudged towards a very large refrigerated truck wondering what I would find, and heard. "Two pounds of rump steak and four pork chops for...." Then, when the auctioneer/butcher did not get a response, he pretended to be cross, and said. "Okay, I can see you're a tough crowd - and want more for your money...I'll throw in two pounds of pork sausages." The crowd yelled in delight, and began waving their money in the air. An assistant ran around collecting the money as she handed over the meat that was wrapped in white greaseproof paper.

The whole episode was absolutely fascinating to watch - not just the butcher's antics, but also the crowd. I think Mr. Carr must have a regular following, because his audience seemed to know and trust him. He is also very entertaining, I could have watched and listened to him all day.

Friday, October 1, 2010

Arches National Park, Utah

I'm not sure what I expected to find when I visited the Arches National Park in Utah, but I was pleasantly surprised. We arrived early morning, the weather was simply wonderful. It's best to go into the Visitor's Center first to get an idea of how long the treks will take you, the complexity of the hike, etc. The staff offer advice on the trails - whether suitable for children, or those with limitations.They also caution visitors that plenty of water should be taken on the hikes since none is available on route.

Photo #1  - The Delicate Arch. A three mile roundtrip. Quite a steep climb in places.
Photo#2  -  The Lamb can be viewed from the car
Photo# 3  - The Three Gossips can be viewed from the car.

After the Grand Canyon, I thought I had seen the best of the best...but the Arches National Park has a beauty all its own. The rock formations are truly astounding, and quite beautiful in a way that's hard to describe.

For more information go to: www.nps.gov/arch