Author Archives: viola62

About viola62

I am a teacher by day and a writer by night. I live in New Orleans with my loving husband and write historical fiction, mysteries, and contemporary romance. New Orleans is frequently a character in the book, but I also traverse continents in my quest to bring my characters to life.

Potato Soup for the Soul: I’ve come to think of cooking as an art that is part gift and part skillful practice. My mother was a very gifted cook. She could make a dish that was perfect and filled with … Continue reading

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The Grit of the Irish:

The Grit of the Irish: My hubby and I celebrated St. Patrick’s Day in grand style. Well, the day before I rode in the St. Joseph Italian Parade, but I always show my Irish on March 17.  I don’t care … Continue reading

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Mardi Gras and Cleopatra:

Inn New Orleans, we are in the throes of Mardi Gras. Mardi Gras if often called the world’s greatest free party, but this great party really isn’t free. Mardi Gras krewes pay dues and fees to the city for it … Continue reading

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Christmas in a Time of War:

Christmas in a Time of War: As an author, I write a great deal about WWI and WWII. My mother often talked about WWII and the privations of war and of missing those loved ones during holidays. Many of us … Continue reading

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Thanksgiving at the Race Track:

My father trained thoroughbred racehorses. He engaged in many professions to earn a living, and horse training was his true love, the profession he undertook in his later years. I modeled the character of Jude Mooney on my father, but … Continue reading

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October and Fall Weather:

Here in Louisiana we have suffered from oppressive heat all summer. My garden wilted and only a few hardy souls performed any kind of outdoor activities. This first full weekend of October brought a welcome respite from the heat of … Continue reading

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Romance in a Tragic World

I missed two blog dates –one in July and one in August. Life of late has been crazy, and I find myself struggling to stay above water what with teaching commitments, husband commitments, and writing commitments. The year also has … Continue reading

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When Life is Crazy. . .

When life is crazy, you miss your assigned blog date. Life has been wild for hubby and me the past few months. He had bouts with COVID, Bell’s Palsy, and assorted other allergy-related problems. Teaching has been insane this year—shortages … Continue reading

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Memorial Day and Greek Fest

Memorial Day and Greek Fest: Today is Memorial Day, a day we remember all of those who served in the military and gave their lives for our freedom. In New Orleans, our Greek Orthodox community also celebrated its religion, culture, … Continue reading

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Spring in New Orleans:

Spring in New Orleans:             Spring has arrived in New Orleans. We experienced one last blast of cold weather the week after Easter, and now, warmer weather has greeted us. The celebrations began for the husband and me with Volksfest, a … Continue reading

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