Blog Posts

The definition of adventure—more or less—is a risky endeavor with an uncertain outcome.

Adventures are scary because we don't know what will happen, and they're exciting for exactly the same reason. They are where our greatest challenges lie, as well as the greatest triumphs.

Here are some of my own adventures (and mis-adventures!) in writing, sailing, and life.
My Favorite Historical Seafaring Novels Featuring Strong Women
My Favorite Historical Seafaring Novels Featuring Strong Women
If you love a good sea story, you might have noticed that it's a fairly male-heavy genre. I love a good Patrick O'Brien novel as much as the next gal,... Read more...
Why I Had to Write The Navigator
Why I Had to Write The Navigator
If a picture's worth a thousand words, maybe a video's worth a bit more. Beyond Ellen's amazing accomplishments, here's exactly why her story was so compelling to me personally.  Read more...
I Finally Know Who I Am Again
I Finally Know Who I Am Again
This has been the most incredible month for me and I'm overflowing with gratitude for the incredible response to The Navigator.  I'm breathing a huge sigh of relief today. Even... Read more...
Pride, Prejudice, and Pristine
Pride, Prejudice, and Pristine
If you’d asked, I would have said I liked Jane Austen. Not loved. Not ravenously consumed. Definitely not Beatlemania level, willing to neglect husband and hygiene to make it through... Read more...
On the Trail of History's Most Famous Cookie
On the Trail of History's Most Famous Cookie
True confession. I once set the kitchen on fire making toaster waffles. The kind that come pre-made. In a box.  In other words, be sure to take any baking advice... Read more...
What's In Your Tussie-Mussie?
What's In Your Tussie-Mussie?
Is your garden accidentally communicating heartlessness, or misfortune, or longing? 😱 Nosegays, also known as tussie-mussies, were small bouquets pinned to a dress or carried as fashion accessories. In the... Read more...
What Does the 16th of December Have to do With Anything?
What Does the 16th of December Have to do With Anything?
If you’re a reader, there’s something you may want to have on your radar well before the ball drops. A fun and significant date that just may change how you... Read more...
Old Writer, New Trick
Old Writer, New Trick
You know how, when you reflect on your life, there are a few key insights that stand out as true game-changers? Only a few, mind you. Not many things make... Read more...
Sailing From the Past to the Future
Sailing From the Past to the Future
I spent my August mornings sailing into the past. The writing process was a gorgeous mix of excruciating and amazing, and the first draft is now done. It took 8... Read more...
The Big Daddy Fear I'm Keeping
The Big Daddy Fear I'm Keeping
Fears. We all have them. And we’d sure like to banish them, eh? Our culture supports derring-do. We thrive on it. We make documentaries about people who face their fears.... Read more...
Why I’m Having Coffee With My Fears
Why I’m Having Coffee With My Fears
You might think someone planning to sail across oceans might be afraid of storms, pirates, or running aground. But as Colin and I prepped for the next phase of our... Read more...
Adventure is a Muscle That Grows Stronger With Use
Adventure is a Muscle That Grows Stronger With Use
My body flooded with adrenaline and I bolted up in bed. “Delete it now!” I said. “It’s a phishing scam. Don’t touch it! You didn’t accidentally click, did you?” Three... Read more...