Remember my proclamation that I’d be blogging more regularly now that I have a brand new website? Lies. All lies.
But here’s a brief update on goings on here at Rare Birds Inc. The Vancouver Island Regional Public Library Literacy Night was terrific. A huge thanks to Jennifer, Susan and Thora and everyone else who helped to put it on. The readings by Rachel Dunstan Muller of her work-in-progress, John Wilson of his excellent historical novel and Carol Matthews of her wonderfully funny and insightful essays were all well-received. Thanks also to all the people who came out. I didn’t manage to hit Tom Cruise levels of intensity in my reading, but I hope I managed it in my listening!
You may have noticed the new author photo on the home page of the site. The picture was taken by my photographer friend, Rigo Gonzalez, who specializes in radical skateboarding pictures but also shoots all manner of things. Rigo has a great eye. If you are ever looking for a portrait with a special cool-factor, I highly recommend his services. My huge and eloborate bird watching hair (hair so big rare birds might actually be living in it) is courtesy of Megan, who runs Serenity Salon and Day Spa. You want to know how great Megan is? Serenity is named after the Joss Whedon ship by the same name, not simply the state of mind. Also, she came in on her day off to create the 200 bobby pin masterpiece on my head. The overall look was created by my talented friend Tina, who steered me into a costume at Value Village that made me look like a 1930s birdwatcher rather than the one I was originally going to purchase, which made me look like a 1930s mental patient. Oh, and I shouldn’t forget Erica, who told me how to do my makeup and even drew me a diagram and lent me the makeup. No Vanity Fair model ever had a better people!
Diane, brilliant web designer, tinted the picture to make it appear old and I’ve decided that I’d like to look like that all the time. If only I could carry a filter around with me. I supppose I could dress up and tell people that I will only allow myself to be viewed with special goggles. It might get awkward in the grocery store line up, but I’m sure the cashiers will get used to it.
So that’s it for now. I’m going great guns on a new book so things will probably revert to their former quiet. I’ll be back with news and updates as they occur and I’m still planning a podcast and youtube clip for the near future.
Yours in having fun playing dress-up.
Susan
