January 1, 2012
by Valya
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Words. When I see light hit the tree branches during a December sunset on a particularly calm day, and it reminds me of the way life is fragile and hope is present even if for a fleeting moment, I try … Continue reading
December 12, 2011
by Valya
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Last weekend we went to the Museum of Science and Industry where my oldest daughter performed with her Ukrainian folk dance group as part of the Christmas Around the World celebration. If you’ve never seen the exhibit, 50 trees are … Continue reading
December 6, 2011
by Valya
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As a child, my favorite part of going to Mass at Sts. Volodymyr and Olha Ukrainian Catholic Church was the music. The walls, covered with their beautiful icons, were a feast for the eyes and my young imagination, but it … Continue reading
December 5, 2011
by Valya
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I’m trying to finish up these half-written blog entries, so expect a few in rapid succession. Last month I participated in the first Chicago Book Expo, held at the abandoned Borders in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood. The Chicago Writers House Project created a … Continue reading
November 30, 2011
by Valya
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A quick post, while working on others. I really enjoyed this conversation between Connie Willis and Neil Gaiman filmed at World Fantasy Con 2011. Charming and inspiring, it’s a great one for writers and aspiring writers to watch. {lang: ‘ar’}
November 22, 2011
by Valya
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On Friday night, I made my way up the stairs to the Everleigh Social Club with a friend, to attend the 2011 Naked Girls Reading Literary Award Gala. The fabulous loft space was candlelit and lushly decorated. We were among … Continue reading
November 18, 2011
by Valya
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Tomorrow is the Naked Girls Reading Literary Gala and I am one of 5 finalists to have my work read by the lovely ladies of the Everleigh Club in Chicago. Reservations are required. You can purchase tickets in advance here. … Continue reading
November 16, 2011
by Valya
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I’m home drinking coffee from my new mug adorned by Magic the Bengal (a gift from the good folks at the Night Garden Project and Great Lakes Bengal Rescue). Look at those gorgeous eyes! If you’d like one, you can … Continue reading
November 14, 2011
by Valya
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Later tonight the second annual Induction Ceremony for the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame will be held at the Harold Washington Library’s Pritzker Auditorium, from 6-8PM. Once again the eloquent and charming Rick Kogan will be our Master of Ceremonies, … Continue reading
November 13, 2011
by Valya
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I began this entry a week ago and am only now finishing it. This Autumn has been like that, full of bumps and detours. A few weeks ago, Mark was in NY for business, and I met him in Manhattan … Continue reading