When I moved into my new apartment almost a year ago, a dear friend mailed me a molten lava hibiscus so that my book (a collection of short fiction set in World War II Hawaii) would have a presence in my new space.

Earlier this month, I got some good news.  The Greater Baltimore Cultural Alliance has awarded my project a Ruby Grant — funds that will make all the difference as I finish the manuscript.  This support couldn’t have come at a better time.  And to prove it my hibiscus plant blossomed for the first time — three massive dessert-plate blossoms — the week the news arrived.

There will be some exciting book progress to share in the months ahead.  In the meanwhile, you can learn more about the manuscript in the Ruby Grant announcement.