Barbara Richard

Saturday, June 30, 2007

I didn't realize nine days had gone by since my last post. We have had great sessions about the two books, in Miles City and in Circle. Many people turned out, many books were sold. At least forty people were fitted into the small Circle library. It was amazing; some of the people my dad had offended or damaged over the years were there. Everyone has been so kind, and complimentary about the book. We've had small turnouts for the mini-workshops on memoir writing and self-publishing, but very lively discussions.

We have spent a few days in Glendive, waiting for our session on Monday. Except for a couple days of extreme heat, it's been very enjoyable. There is a lovely golf course, and we toured Makoshika state part, so far. Dinosaurs next.

Sidney is next, on July 5th. Our contacts there have expressed high anticipation in meeting us and obtaining the second book, "Walking Wounded.")

I'm going to embarrass myself, but would the lady (I have forgotten your name) who called for the Northern News Network, log onto my website (www.dancingonhisgrave.com) and click on the button titled "Excerpts." These "snapshots" will give you a good idea what kind of man we are discussing and a partial scope of the abuse he inflicted. As I explained, the sexual abuse of my oldest sister starting at age 13 is mentioned but not emphasized, simply because the array of outrages becomes almost overwhelming.

I'll try to improve the frequency of my posting.

Thursday, June 21, 2007

I'm so spoiled by having broadband at my fingertips when we're in Sequim. On this trip, I'm learning to appreciate it, while I hunt for internet cafes, RV parks or hotels that provide wireless internet. Thankfully, it's becoming more and more common and available.

We've checked into the KOA in Miles City, preparing for the first book signing and workshop tomorrow at noon. Nerves are not too bad yet. Weather forecast is for TRIPLE digit temperatures. I'm not accustomed to such conditions anymore (nor the mosquitos.)

Russ and I are working on an update to my website, to include info about "Walking Wounded."

Saturday, June 09, 2007

Here we are in White Sulphur Springs, Montana. We had an enjoyable--albeit uneventful--trip from Washington, pulling our travel trailer. We found our house and grounds in very good condition, thanks to lots of spring rain and the ministrations of our next door neighbor, who takes care of the yard. We were settled in within hours of our arrival. I had to ask Trafford to ship my last few shipments of books for the tour directly to WSS, and they have all arrived safely.

Shortly after we arrived, I received a call from the Women's Resource Center in Glasgow (Montana) asking if I might be a speaker at a gathering being held to celebrate the opening of their new building. I was happy to oblige, and we have set the date for July 11, the day before I will be speaking to the Glasgow area seniors about writing memoir and self-publishing. It is shaping up to be a very busy six weeks, beginning with Miles City on June 22.

I have become very spoiled having broadband internet service in Sequim (WA) and an wireless internet cafe on practically every corner. I'll have to learn to adjust to whatever service is available in eastern Montana. It will be interesting to see how the area has progressed technologically, especially in RV parks.

I'm eager to get my tour started. That will happen when the sprinkler system is operating to Jim's satisfaction. Thank goodness for all the rain; it bought us the time to make needed repairs.

I LOVE: Watching the rain clouds approach over Mount Edith.
Watching all the golf carts going past our house on the way to Arrowhead Meadows.
Having only three snowy channels on TV accessed by rabbit ears, and watching old musicals on the old VCR as a substitute.
Finishing the third coat of stain on my deck, after power washing the peeling finish off.
Just being back in Montana.