December 6 is a great day for children with a German background – they get a glimpse of Christmas joy. No way close to that Dutch children get on this day, but still. This morning, their first steps will be to their homes’ front door to find what St. Nicholas has stuffed into their boots […]
To Ponder
Letter: Silver-ribboned Stairs – Where Will They Lead?
On the rare early mornings this winter time of year, it used to be that as the sun appeared over the top of the hill the momentary sunlight would turn the edgings on the stairs into silver ribbons, horizontal icicles, shooting stars. Then, lost in thought, my hands cradling a cup of coffee in order to stay […]
Chasing Stories that Connect
When I was a boardmember with The Tacoma Actors Guild, we were struggling to get more supporters. Our patrons were not renewing memberships. No renewals mean death to live theater. A survey showed that those who attended our Tacoma Actors Guild productions did not like the plays that were being produced by TAG. Many of […]
Advent Calendar December 5: Baking
One of the most rewarding activities during advent is baking cookies. First of all, it’s something also children can participate in – so, it’s a great family activity. Second, you get something homemade for days on end (if you pace yourself eating them). And third, your entire home simply starts smelling delicious – no air […]
Advent Calendar December 4: Barbara Branches
Nature has fallen asleep by now. But wait – one really nice Advent tradition is that of Barbara branches. St. Barbara’s Day is December 4, and my mother always bought some branches for a vase. Not just any branches but such as from cherry trees or apple trees. As a child, I found it kind […]
Advent Calendar December 3: Advent Wreath
Have you ever wondered why advent traditionally is celebrated with a specific kind of wreath? Why with a wreath, at all? The circle as well as the evergreen boughs it is made of both symbolize eternal life; a wreath also is a reminder of a crown of thorns, of Christ’s endless love. As of here, […]
Cats the Musical – Review & Commentary
Tacoma Musical Theatre has another hit with their spectacular production of CATS, running now through December 17th. Opening night was a celebration of wonderful ensemble work, amazing solo-duet-and trio turns by talented singer-dancer-actors from beginning to end. The house was Standing Room Only and the audience stopped the show several times with appreciation, cheers and […]
Advent Calendar December 2: Evergreen
Have you already placed any evergreens in your home? A garland over the mantlepiece, on a window sill, or on a sideboard? A few branches in a vase? An arrangement or a wreath on a table or at your front door? The scent will fill the air and lend a room the flair of the […]
In the Book Nook with … Courtney Campbell
Author Courtney Campbell from Gig Harbor, Washington, is also a singer/songwriter, musician, storyteller, and the writer of many screenplays for a TV show she had. She has been writing songs and stories for 35 years. Her first book was last April. She is a member of the Writers Cooperative of the Pacific Northwest. When Courtney […]