The Write Counsel

Front and center at entrance to Lighthouse Bookstore in downtown Boulder.

Austin’s library system offers access to everything from wildflower seeds to 3D printing to a studio for recording music. The city’s library staff share their top picks for services and spaces people may not know about. https://www.kut.org/austin/2026-04-29/austin-tx-public-library-free-events-things

https://www.instagram.com/p/DXo__VvjVR7/?igsh=Y2tocmpkY3ZraXJv

This was the perfect novel for me to read and learn about life in Hong Kong before, during, and after the war. I’d read many that take place in mainland China, but not Hong Kong. And interestingly, I worked for the government of Hong Kong when it became independent from the UK in the 90s. The cover drew me in, but I love to read books that take place in other lands and in other times. Qotd: have you read any books about Hong Kong? China? Have you been there?

Today is Independent Bookstore Day. Most indie can order any title for you so that you don't have to buy from the megabusinesses. It's very important to support local owned businesses like independent book stores. Although my book is available most everywhere online, I'm most satisfied by its presence in the independent shops. These photos are of my book at retailers in Texas, Utah, and Colorado. Purchase or order from your local store. It makes a big difference.

This article of mine was reposted today. https://www.aarpethel.com/travel/destinations/how-to-enjoy-an-amazing-vacation-under-the-tuscan-sun/?fbclid=IwZnRzaAPok81leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeTAGp-pi0ou0uHVYP9vAQIhsePghZ14hbiQ3MxxwtBgAK09a0gn2BXyopWaE_aem_cwrvGhPY364ObD4y1yHrRg

How to Enjoy an Amazing Vacation Under the Tuscan Sun Why spending time in these regions is so addictive.

Today is International Holocaust Remembrance Day that commemorates the victims of the Holocaust, which resulted in the genocide of one-third of the Jewish people along with countless numbers of individuals of other minority groups, by N**i Germany between 1933 and 1945: an attempt to implement its “Final Solution” to the Jewish question. The choice of 27 January for the annual commemoration aligns with the liberation of the Auschwitz concentration camp by the Red Army in 1945. I have visited concentration camps, and have known survivors. When I read “Hostage” (a new release from one of the survivors of the Oct 7 atrocity) I saw how the author had to suppress many of his natural feelings and fear to survive. What I found admirable was how he encouraged his fellow prisoners in a tunnel to state something they were thankful for, every night. Qotd: have you been to any of the concentration camps? What book about the camps or WWII have made the greatest impression? I’ll suggest The German Girl/La Niña Alemana which I featured a few years ago. #holocaustremembranceday #october7 #internationalholocaustremembranceday

tune in to my latest podcast interview that shares tips from my book including:
🍵 Simple herbal tea recipes that balance digestion for all body types
🔥 How digestive fire affects your emotions and overall wellbeing
🌿 Practical mindfulness techniques like puzzles and gardening

Restore Balance With Mindful Eating, Meditation and Movement with Deborah Charnes Meditation doesn't mean sitting still for an hour, and yoga is so much more than pretzel poses. Certified yoga therapist Deborah Charnes reveals how ancient ...

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTdEwOejXKI/?igsh=MWRqcmZsazlqdjZwMg==

Angela Buchdahl recently published a memoir about her life as the first Asian American rabbi. Born in Korea, she serves as head rabbi at one of the world’s largest congregations. Her memoir includes short spiritual teachings at the end of each chapter. Here are a few that most of us can relate to. #depressionandanxiety #spiritualitymatters #slowdowntime #bookrec

2025 was the year I spent lots of time (and $) to produce and publish the audiobook version of "From the Boxing Ring to the Ashram." It's available exclusively on Kobo.

In the meantime, I'm so grateful for all who have read my book in e-format, paperback, or audio. And an extra heartfelt appreciation for those who have left a review on Amazon, Goodreads, or elsewhere. If you haven't yet, please do so, even if just one line.