On today’s anniversary of 9/11, this is my tribute to the victims, their families and friends, the citizens of the USA and every nation around the world where people value peace, understanding, and human dignity. As a gesture of spreading beauty today, I offer these photos of flowers I’ve seen around … [Read more…]
Phenomena known as mind-control or brainwashing have been written about by psychologists, sociologists, and many other “ists.” Now it’s my turn. Note: This post was written in 2015, about one year before I published my memoir, Undertow, about my cult experience. My name is Charlene, and I am a former … [Read more…]
In Turkey 2011, my husband, Hoyt, and I stopped in the town of Kas, a charming fishing village on the Mediterranean Sea. Yes, I know I’m spoiled. Writing in Kas, Turkey Kas was an idyllic spot to land in, muse, rest, and write. Seafood was yumeeee. We were on the … [Read more…]
This is a tribute to Oliver Sacks, neurologist and author. Today, my husband, Hoyt, came in my writing room and said, “Oliver Sacks has died.” Oh no. I sank back in my chair. Oliver Sacks has been one of my favorite authors about what it means to be a human … [Read more…]
Round cheese, square cheese, soft cheese, and hard cheese. Golden wax layers protect and preserve it. Gobble it up with that excellent, chewy bread you find only in Europe (is it something in their water?) a bit of juicy nectarine, and a glass of wine. You’re good to go! Gouda the cheese Last May, … [Read more…]