Articles

For many years I was missing a major skill. The world around me was changing, but I wasn’t — at least not in the beginning. I wasn’t “plugged in” like others around me, and felt like I was missing out. Photos were being shared, letters were sent and received, and announcements came and went, but not for me. So, one day, I decided to make a change. Instead of being afraid of this new challenge, I embraced it. Of course, I’m talking about the computer. I decided to learn to use

I was so excited to return to the Erma Bombeck 2018 Writers’ Workshop. After all, it is the duty of the reigning monarch. I can’t say I haven’t enjoyed the homage, curtsies, and bows bestowed upon me since my arrival. It didn’t hurt that I wore my crown everywhere and mastered the majestic hand wave that greets a crowd. Being 89 years old and still breathing wasn’t a negative either; however, it does bring an element of urgency to my writing. I have more than 30 stories in mi

By Queen Lori (with a little help from Princess Julie) It’s been two years since my coronation at the 2016 Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop. When my daughter Julie and I returned home, I was motivated and ready to launch my new writing career. But there were a few obstacles and distractions as I tried to get started and stay focused: First Obstacle. I had computer issues. I could turn it on, find my home page, send and receive emails, but that was about it. All other challenges

I was enthroned and esteemed at the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop back in April, sent home with a tiara, then never to be seen or heard from again. What happened? I promised my subjects I would write. Was I to be queen for only a day and then vanish? Or did something happen that changed my plans? Something did indeed happen. It all began when I started looking for someone to get me out of the castle. To that point, no knight in shining armor had driven up in his Corvette con

I’ve never been a queen before. Royalty does not run in my family. In fact, I didn’t even expect to be noticed while attending the very popular Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop recently. But by day two, I was being crowned queen of the conference. As I stepped to the mic to make my acceptance speech, these words came out: “It’s never too late. I’m going to start writing.” My daughter, standing by my side, had always heard me talk about writing “someday.” Today is my someday. Th