Cold front ahead!
It is the first day of the second month of the New Year, and temperatures in the Geneva area have dropped well into negative numbers. On days like this, I am grateful that I don’t have to spend the day outside… although I have much admiration for those who do!
Sitting by the burning logs in the fireplace, I can contemplate on why this kind of weather brings thoughts of faraway places, of never-ending snow planes and brave men and women who have settled them in the past.
If you still haven’t read ‘The Tenderness of Wolves’ by Stef Penney, these cold days are a perfect opportunity to do so. The backdrop of the story in 19th century Canada makes the cold weather outside seem mild and welcoming.
Another excellent read for these cold days is 1Q84 by Haruki Murakami. It is set in Tokyo, and if you can handle the 900+ pages it is certain to keep you warm and inspired while sipping a hot cup of tea or a glass of red wine by the fire.
Despite the cold weather, I’ll be spending this coming weekend at the Geneva Writers’ Conference at Webster University in Bellevue – three days packed with fascinating workshops, panels and meetings with fellow writers, publishers and agents. More information on this wonderful conference can be found onwww.genevawritersgroup.org – the next one is planned for 2014!