“THE LION WOMEN OF TEHRAN” by Marjan Kamali

This is a story about the friendship of two young girls growing up against the backdrop of political unrest and instability…in the turbulence of Iran during volatile times. Their friendship spans decades from the 1950’s to present day. It’s a coming of age story as Ellie and Homa make life changing decisions and the conflicts they encounter. An unlikely friendship at the start, this is about feminism, activism, commitment to a cause or belief as well as love, devotion, betrayal and forgiveness. I must say that Kamali’s writing made me feel part of the friendship of Ellie and Homa…sharing in their simple joys of childhood, feeling the teenage stresses and jealousies playing out between them, their parents and friends…and experiencing their parting ways when they were young women and LIFE interrupted them.

THE LION WOMEN OF TEHRAN is an engaging story celebrating women, friendship, redemption…and triumph! Loved it!

April 2025 was a wonderful month…

HUNTER’S BRIGHT HORN WAILS,

LILLY’S VOICE…A STAGE DELIGHT…

JOY SINGS IN MY HEART.

“BY ANY OTHER NAME” by Jodi Picoult

 WINGS OF KNOWLEDGE SOAR,
MICHAEL’S HEART, A GUIDE SO TRUE…
NATION’S PRAISE TAKES FLIGHT.

The historic lobby of Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport…was bustling with scores of flying enthusiasts, an engaging jazz band…

…and a stunning pink sunset outside the surrounding windows…an ambiance that was certainly one anticipating celebration! After old friends reconnected and new ones made, the room hushed and the Awards Ceremony commenced. There were 5 national awards given for various accomplishments and aspects of aviation… Michael was the final recipient…for his innovations, contributions and commitment to aviation education and safety. Michelle and her friend Joe (who joined us) were as proud of him as I was. It was well deserved recognition for all his hard work through his 50+ years of flying and active membership as well as leadership initiatives in our community and the AOPA.

While Michael was busy with meetings, Michelle and I explored the area specifically set aside after the Revolutionary War…with wide avenues, inspirational marble buildings and monuments, public squares and a magnificent walkway along the “national mall.” It had been many years since either Michelle or I had been in D.C., so we had fresh, appreciative eyes for its beauty and historical significance. Here’s some of what we saw…

Washington, D.C. is a stunningly impressive nation’s capital… so sad our country is in such disarray!

Until my next, abbyj

“THE WOMEN” by Kristin Hannah

My Book Cover Design

Hill town, island dreams,

Italy sings to my soul…

Beauty floods my heart.

TWO ITALIAN GEMS: Cheer in Orvieto and Venetian Magic

The holiday season takes on a special glow in Italy, imbued with history, tradition and that unmistakable Italian warmth. That’s why we make Orvieto and Venice our go-to destination for the holidays every other year. The ancient Etruscan stronghold of Orvieto (Umbria) and the mesmerizing floating city of Venice…both offer unique experiences that blend Christmas joy with the undeniable charm of their respective histories…we never tire of either destination, seeing them with new eyes each visit.

Our adventure began in Orvieto, a spectacular, very familiar hilltop town. Founded by the Etruscans in the 9th century BC, this ancient city emanates history from every cobbled street. Visiting with longtime friends amplified the warm, welcoming feeling that permeates the town. We spent our days treading those historic streets, soaking in the atmosphere. Orvieto offers us a comforting contrast to the bustling energy of larger Italian cities.

Leaving the rustic charm of Orvieto, we journeyed north to Venice, the enchanting “Floating City.” Known worldwide for its unparalleled beauty, rich culture and unique architecture, it’s built on a network of 121 islands connected by 435 bridges…canals are Venice’s highways. This city envelopes you in a world of charming alleyways, breathtaking architecture and hidden squares. Every turn reveals a new vista…a new reason to fall in love AGAIN with this extraordinary place. And, of course, the food is exquisite!! The city sparkles with lights, decorations, numerous Christmas markets…and the whimsical spectacle of the annual Santa Claus Regatta. Seeing a fleet of gondolas filled with Santas racing along the Grand Canal is an unforgettable sight.

From the ancient cobbled streets of Orvieto to the enchanting canals of Venice, our Italian Christmas journey was, once again, tied with beauty, history and the priceless joy of spending time with cherished friends…a reminder that the true spirit of the holidays lies in connection, shared experiences and an appreciation of the unique beauty the world has to offer.

Sailing with Michelle on Hunter’s ship: November 2024

Warm breeze, ocean blue

Hunter’s trumpet blasts, my joy

Family’s sweet song…

More wonderful memories as we travel Hunter’s road around the world. He’s learning so much and is truly a pro now…he can play anything, and is committed to being the best horn player he can be…Reaching for the stars (that are moving closer to HEL!!) So proud…

I don’t know what I can say about the visually stunning, on-stage production of this epic tale…this is the 5th time I’ve seen it and am ready to see it again and again. It first appeared on the theater scene in November 1997, featuring songs by Elton John and Tim Rice as well as lyrics by Lebo M., Julie Taymor, Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin and Hans Zimmer. Along with English, a variety of indigenous African languages are sung and spoken. There’s something so powerful and magical about THE LION KING…the brilliant music, the colorful costumes…the African-inspired masks, the cleverness of the production… the “puppet” animals, larger than life, making their way from the theater aisles to the stage, bring awe and tears to my eyes every time! I’m such a baby!!!! From the first note to the last … SPECTACULAR!

If it comes to your corner of the world, DON’T MISS IT!!

JAMES

By Perceval Everett

Reclaiming the River: Perceval Everett’s “JAMES” reimagines Mark Twain’s classic through a new lens

Mark Twain’s ADVENTURES of HUCKLEBERRY FINN has been ingrained in the American literary consciousness for 140 years, a staple in classrooms and a source of national introspection. But what happens when the familiar narrative is flipped, when the supportive voice becomes the leading one? In Perceval Everett’s JAMES, Huck Finn recedes into the background as Jim…now James…steps into the spotlight, his journey becoming the heart and soul of the narrative.

JAMES is not simply a retelling; it’s a potent critique of racism, slavery and the elusive promise of equality, delivered with a sharp edge of satire, moments of dark humor and a profound depth of emotion. While Twain’s Jim often played the role of a simple-minded slave, Everett’s James is a complex, multifaceted man: compassionate, brave and wise…a self-taught intellectual forced to navigate a world designed to crush him.

The core narrative remains familiar: James and Huck, both fugitives from Hannibal, Missouri– James fleeing enslavement after learning his family is to be sold; Huck escaping his father’s abuse- embarking on their perilous journey down the wide Mississippi River searching for the free states. It’s an adventure to Huck, but for James, it’s a desperate fight for survival.

Everett masterfully crafts a double life for James, born of necessity. This author doesn’t shy away from deviating from the well-trodden path of Twain’s original narrative. He introduces new characters (both allies and adversaries,) and explores unchartered territories within the familiar landscape of the Mississippi River. This is James, not Mark Twain’s Jim…reclaiming his identity and place in a world determined to strip him of both.

JAMES is a profound and necessary book, a far-reaching commentary on race, freedom and the enduring impact of slavery on the American psyche. It’s a challenging and rewarding read…highly recommended for anyone ready to confront the complexities of history and the enduring struggle for true equality!

A CITY OF SEASONS

I couldn’t live in a place that didn’t offer the opportunity and privilege of experiencing all four seasons. Of the four, I must admit, (though I’m definitely in the minority,) that winter is my favorite…BUT, the older I get, the more carefully I approach its challenges. Here’s my personal poster homage to this beautiful season…as well as the other three!

There is always something for which to be thankful…and grateful! 🙏