I was interviewed twice in the last two weeks about my book, creative life and real life. That’s a lot of talking! But before I get into that, I want to pay respect to the Wyoming Tribune-Eagle.

I used to be a features reporter. This was in the golden age of news, when paper profit margins were healthy and local news was strong. Since then, local newspapers have gone into what seems like a free-fall; nearly 40 percent of them have closed since 2005. In those that remain, features are often a low priority.

So when I discovered that my hometown paper (thriving, by the looks of it) still wrote about the local arts and charity and lifestyle scene, I gave a little cheer for Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Sometimes, you just want to support your local bookstore. You may also want convenience. It’s been a pleasure for me to discover that you can order books from your friendly local indie establishment. Read on for a list of some favorite indie bookstores that offer The Madres Deal online!

I got a new smartphone last week. The non-native apps didn’t come over, so I had to add them one by one. At first I was disappointed; here was something I would have to take time out of my day to do. And then I realized it was a chance to ask myself what I would rather have: the app, or the time and space it used to occupy.

The Book Birthday approaches! You can preorder your copy on the publisher website.

But first, you can read the back cover text right here, right now.

It’s Time to Channel Some of That Food Aid Angst Into Action