“Is that a Christmas tree?” the Dean of the College of Arts and Letters asked me during a Zoom call. “Absolutely not,” I said, turning my camera to showcase the full nine-feet of festive fall glory behind me. “It’s a Squirrel Tree!” I explained the inspiration for the tree—an homage …
It’s spooky season, ya’ll. FINALLY. Bring on the pumpkin everything and the spooky decor and soon, the candy hunting munchkins. I can’t …
When the box arrived, I was sprawled out on the couch staring the ceiling, contemplating a 10-minute power-nap between meetings. Like every …
“Have you become cynical or critical at work?” Well, my self-appointed nickname is Cynical Shawna. “Do you drag yourself to work and …
Slice. Slice. Slice. “What are you doing over there?” Mr. T asked, askance, peering over from the living room couch. “Cutting out …
Normally when a new semester starts, I think about what I want to accomplish–for myself professionally, with my students, in the department/university. …
Over the summer, I had the immensely good fortune to visit my best friend and beloved nephews (who refuse to stop growing …
One of the scariest things about publishing a book? Waiting for the feedback. I’ve been on pins and needles the last couple …
Whoa. This morning Facebook reminded me that The Bluest Muse turned 12 yesterday. (And yes, I missed it. Again.) Twelve whole years …
When planning my summer holiday trees, July’s theme was an absolute no-brainer. How could I not make an airplane tree in honor …
