What are some of your favorite childhood memories?
I would have to say when my mom would visit me and take me on a picnic or for a drive, that was always a great day for me. Another favorite memory was when I came home after school and my dogs were waiting to greet me. Also I loved when my older brother would visit when I was living with my grandparents.
Do you remember the first story you ever read and the impact it had on you?
The first book I remember reading was "Anne of Green Gables" by Lucy Maud Montgomery. I loved it. In many ways I could identify with Anne. Reading "Anne of Green Gables" made me feel hopeful and anxious to read about other people's experiences and the various types of families there are in the world.
What are your hobbies apart from writing?
Besides writing, I enjoy hiking, camping, biking and spending time with my husband and dog.
Who is the most supportive person in your life when it comes to your writing?
My husband is very supportive and reads many of my drafts before I send to editors or publish. I am very fortunate to have him in my life.
What challenges did you face while publishing your first novel, "Dear Barb: Answers to Your Everyday Questions?"
I guess the biggest challenge was whether anyone would want to read it, but since I have been writing this column for over 20 years, I had to assume it had some appeal. Also I was very fortunate to have found someone to help me with the self publishing aspect. Paul Lima had self published over 20 books, so I was able to benefit from his expertise.
Do you ever get bored of writing a weekly advice column that you have been writing for over 20 years? What keeps you going?
I do at times, but every week there is a new question to be answered, so I guess you could say the problems are what keep me going every week.
Do you remember the first short story you ever published?
One of my first published stories was about "The Absurdity of Camping" it is a humorous look at camping.
What was your reaction when one of your stories won first place in the Professional Writers Association contest?
I was honored and finally felt like I truly was a "writer."
When are you most satisfied with a book or a piece of writing? Do you often edit things out of your books?
As a writer I don't think you are ever truly satisfied with your writing. You always feel you could do better, or change something.
What was the hardest part of writing the memoir, "Glimpses in Time: A Collection of Memoirs and More"?
The stories are very personal and revealing, and it is always difficult to open yourself up as I have in the stories in "Glimpses in Time."
When you're not reading or writing a book, what are some other things that you love to do?
I love spend time outdoors, either hiking or walking my dog. I also love spending time with family and friends. I also am a bit of a gambler, so I spend some time at the Casino.
Have you ever thought of collaborating and writing something with another author? If so, who would you want to work with?
No I have not considered collaborating with another author. I believe writing is a solitary experience and each writer has their own unique voice.
What kind of audience do you hope to appeal to with your books?
Both my books are directed toward helping people to make their lives better, either through advice I provide, or by revealing my personal struggles and how I overcame.
Which is the next book you are working on? Give us insight into it.
I am actually working on two books. The next one will be published this Fall and is "Dear Barb 2: Advice for Daily Life" and it is a sequel to "Dear Barb: Answers to Your Everyday Question." This book includes an additional 90 questions compiled from my weekly advice column. I am also working on my autobiography "Can I Come Home Now?" The first chapter of "Can I Come Home Now?" is included as the final chapter in "Glimpses in Time: A Collection of Memoirs and More." This chapter will give the reader a pretty good idea of the direction my autobiography will take.
How has your experience of been associated with AllAuthor been?
I have enjoyed my association with AllAuthor and I have been pleased with the exposure my books have received. Even while working through the pandemic everything ran smoothly. Whenever I have questions, the help and support I receive is excellent.
