Writeful

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Thursday, March 06, 2025

“A Weekend in Nashville” - in the print edition of Baltimore Style Magazine

 

My Nashville story was published in the print edition of Baltimore Style Magazine (on pages 12, 13, 14). 

Our recent journey brought us to the vibrant heart of Tennessee—Nashville, a city that resonates with the vibrant chords of music history and the warm hum of Southern hospitality. During our visit, we experienced the multifaceted layers of this iconic city: 

The historic paths and the lively cultural scene of Downtown Nashville.

The storied origins of the city, once known as Fort Nashborough.

A taste of Nashville's culinary pride through places like Prince’s Hot Chicken and Arnold’s Country Kitchen.

The Parthenon at Centennial Park, a full-scale replica that stands as a testament to Nashville's nickname, “Athens of the South.”

Iconic music venues like the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium, each with its own rich narrative and contribution to the country music tapestry.

The tranquility and natural beauty within the bustling city, from the trendy Gulch neighborhood to the serene Cheekwood Estates and Gardens.

Read more about our visit in Baltimore Style Magazine.

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Monday, March 03, 2025

Faraway Tables Poetic Book Tour: Final Review from The True Book Addict

The Faraway Tables Poetic Book Tour concludes with a reflective and heartfelt review from Michelle at The True Book Addict. This final review captures the emotional essence of the collection and its ability to connect deeply with readers.

Michelle praises Faraway Tables for “touching on many subjects … life during and after the pandemic, world affairs, climate change, and the ever-changing and inevitable winding down of life.” She highlights the relatable and poignant nature of the poems, saying, “Poetry always seems to understand life and the world. These poems are no different.”

Review highlights:

  • “Toast to Friendship”: “The war in Ukraine weighs heavily on our minds as it continues on and on. This poem captured the sorrow of what was, what is, and perhaps what could be again (we can only hope).”
    “These people in Kiev—people just like us—
    no longer worried about
    when to go to the store for toothpaste,
    but whether their sons and daughters
    would live in an independent nation,
    or live at all.”

  • “Embracing Hermithood”: “If the pandemic could be looked at in a more positive light, these stanzas demonstrate this… it helped me to slow down and to be more centered.”
    “The pandemic drives us into
    our isolated caves. Gives us an excuse
    to be what we want to be.”

  • “Sassy”: “The loss of a beloved pet. This one brought tears to my eyes.”
    “How I always wanted to sleep in
    an extra ten minutes
    when it was my turn to walk you.
    How I long to walk with you—
    at any hour—now.”

  • “Water Fall Blues”: “A sad reality, and a harsh reality for people losing access to fresh water.”
    “Our off-the-beaten-path
    waterfall is nowhere to be found. Has it
    evaporated, or can we simply not find it?”

Michelle concludes by calling Faraway Tables “an excellent debut collection” and expressing excitement for future collections. She writes, “I think you will relate to this collection. An excellent debut collection.”

I’m so grateful to Michelle and all the reviewers who participated in the Faraway Tables Poetic Book Tour. Your thoughtful reviews have made this journey unforgettable.

Read the full review here: The True Book Addict.

The tour may have ended, but the journey of Faraway Tables continues! Join us at the table by getting your copy today!

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