Author Archives: madelynruth@yahoo.com

Tu B’Shevat

It’s time for Tu B’Shevat, the Birthday of the Trees. And what better way to celebrate than with an Epic Snow Storm? In case your celebration plans are cancelled (our synagogue has plans for a conservation talk and an animal … Continue reading

Posted in crafts, holidaze, Trees, Tu B'Shevat | Leave a comment

On death

The deaths of people we’ve never met have cast a fog around our hearts this month. Here are some reasons why: Because even though we knew Lemmy was living on borrowed time, we thought he’d borrowed more. Because David Bowie has provided the soundtrack … Continue reading

Posted in anxiety, art, birds, death | 6 Comments

Resolutions from Writers and Illustrators

I’ve always been a fan of New Year’s Resolutions. To me, they’re not iron-clad rules. Nor are they promises destined to be broken or reminders of moth-eaten baggage. They’re more guidelines or moments of clarity: This is what I believe. This will give … Continue reading

Posted in goals, new year, resolutions, world domination | 8 Comments

Gifts and giving

Hi, all, and Happy Thanksgiving Week. Following are a few ideas for gifts, for books, and a way to help others. For Everybody: If you are looking for something that is truly unique, a couple of local artist friends are opening their studios to the public on … Continue reading

Posted in art, gifts, holidaze | 2 Comments

Nine Good Books About Dogs (Also: Nine Books About Good Dogs)

I’m so excited to have HOW TO BEHAVE AT A DOG SHOW join the other established dog/pet books out in the world – especially as we gear up for The National Dog Show and then Westminster. This week, I’m taking a … Continue reading

Posted in dogs, kidlit, picture book idea month, picture book month, picture books | 4 Comments