House of Waffles
When you’ve been a Waffle House regular for several decades, you hear and see some things. Things that both restore your faith in humanity–and occasionally
September 19, 2021
Musings
If I Were the Devil
In 1965, Radio Legend Paul Harvey recorded a piece titled If I Were the Devil. It became his most famous recording. This is my take
September 19, 2021
Mama and the Chain Gang
Mama and the Chain Gang is by far the most beloved story in my book, The Cracker Queen–A Memoir of a Jagged, Joyful Life. As
September 19, 2021
The Moment I Heard the Church Bells Tolling in Memory of 9/11
I stopped in my tracks; removed my headphones; and stayed still until the bells fell silent. I thought about the ancestors. The Irish who could
September 11, 2021
Presence
Daddy shocked my socks off with his appearance that sunny day. How did he know where I was? Why was he asking that question? I
June 30, 2021
Loving Mother-Daughter Phone Conversation
What follows is a transcript of a real phone call held between Mama and me. Mama: Retta, I sure am sorry to hear about your
June 6, 2021
Zigzagging at the Value Village
The two men in the parking lot didn’t make any sense. One figure moving erratically at warp speed–first doubled over and zigging to the left–then
March 28, 2021