Romancing the Genres: Snow or sand?

Thursday, July 13, 2023

Snow or Sand? by Lynn Lovegreen

I like snow, in moderation. (We got a few feet too much snow last winter, but we got through it.) However, right now, with summer here and a trip coming up, I'm dreaming of sand.

Morro Bay, CA: image of sandy beach in foreground and large rock island in background

near Half Moon Bay, CA: Sandy beach with waves and partly cloudy sky in background

My husband grew up in California, and we visit fairly often. These photos are from our 2019 trip. One of my favorite things to do is walk on the beach. The feel of the sand, the sound of the crashing waves, and the breezy sea air all make it a special place for me.

I am attending the RWA (Romance Writers of America) Annual Conference in Anaheim July 19-22.And if you're going to be there too, keep an eye out for me and say hi! I hope to find time to walk on a sandy beach before or after the conference.

Lynn Lovegreen has lived in Alaska for most of her life. After twenty years in the classroom, she retired to make more time for writing. She enjoys her friends and family, reading, and volunteering for her local library. Her young adult historical romance is set in Alaska, a great place for drama, romance, and independent characters. See her website at www.lynnlovegreen.com.

Monday, July 3, 2023

Sand or Snow?

Why not both! I have to admit, I like both sand and snow for different reasons.

Sand because I love the sound of the ocean, or really any water that is moving. The trickle of a stream, the rush of a river, the crashing of waves. All of those bodies of water usually have sand even if it's buried underneath river rock, kicked up by mud puppies in a stream, or warm and squishy under your toes at an ocean beach.

I grew up surrounded by mountains. And while I love mountains, I also love going to the Oregon Coast and walking along the beach. The rhythmic sound of the waves soothes. Watching the sand for nature's murals is a joy to me. Here are some photos I've taken on my walks on the beach.

I like the designs around the rock.

Ripples in the sand.

Black and tan sand mixed.

While I love sand and beaches, I also enjoy a good walk in the snow. The brisk air, snow crunching under my feet, and if I'm lucky, snowflakes falling around me. There is nothing as magical as walking in a white world where no one else has walked and having soft white flakes fall around you. That is one of my favorite things about winter. I don't mind snow as long as it is cleared off the roads so there are less accidents.