My News

A weekly blog by Cynthia Cook

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

                I’m proud to introduce you to my first non-fiction novella. Here is a teaser.

What really happened to the hat and the gloves entirely depends on who you ask.

When Marion, a once-independent wealthy woman, begins her descent into Alzheimer’s, her world shrinks to a new shared home with her son and his partner. But what should be a time of familial support turns into a maelstrom of accusations and betrayal.

During a visit from Marion’s sister and her husband, a beloved hat is mysteriously mutilated. This seemingly small act of destruction ignites a family firestorm, exposing long-buried tensions and testing loyalties.

As the story unfolds through multiple perspectives, readers are drawn into a web of conflicting memories, half-truths, and heartbreaking realizations. With each chapter, the lines between victim and perpetrator blur, challenging our understanding of family, trust, and the devastating effects of dementia.

Cynthia Cook’s unflinching narrative forces us to confront the question: In a family torn apart by illness and suspicion, can the truth ever truly be known? And more importantly, can forgiveness find a way?

                My writing approach is non-traditional. I didn’t start with an outline. I always write everything out in long hand first. But I didn’t get any rejections!

                I always said I would write a true story if I ever had the opportunity, because you can’t make this shit up! During my family’s latest crisis, I decided that the time was right. As these events unfolded during the last four months, I just sat down and wrote. What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves is in the proofreading stage, and it will be in print this fall.

                I would like to thank my high school English teachers, who were the first ones to see my potential as a writer. The team at Atmosphere Press has been great right from the start, with editorial support, advice, and encouragement. I’m so happy with my first book, and I can’t wait to take the next step!

See you next week.

Blog #2

August 16, 2024

                We have made great progress on my book! I have approved most changes suggested by the proofreaders and made a few corrections of my own. I have selected a front cover design that I’m really happy with. The next step will be the interior layout and design, which usually takes 6 to 12 weeks. When the back cover design has been finalized, the first physical copy of the book will be ready to print!

                I have started a Facebook account for What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves. I have also joined Threads under my new Instagram profile cynthia_cook_author.

                I have dreamed of being a writer for a long time, because I had good teachers in elementary and high school who instilled a love of reading in me. My earliest literary inspiration was An Episode of Sparrows, by Rumer Godden. Ann Frank’s Diary is a powerful true story.

                My high school teachers introduced me to the great authors. I read For Whom the Bell Tolls, by Ernest Hemingway, On the Beach and A Town like Alice, by Nevil Shute. I was influenced by the Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck, Catch-22 by Joseph Heller, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, and A Clockwork Orange, by Anthony Burgess. I learned about Watergate by reading All the President’s Men, by Woodward and Bernstein. A special mention goes to Trinity, by Leon Uris.

                Later I read The Stand, and The Dead Zone, by Stephen King, and The Fountainhead, by Ayn Rand. More recently Killers of the Flower Moon, by David Grann, was an excellent historical novel. My favorite book is Small Great Things, by Jodi Picoult.

                To quote Stephen King, “If a book has been banned, go to your public library and check it out, to see why they don’t want you to read it!”

                I am taking the weekend off to indulge in another one of my cultural inspirations, live music! We are going to watch The Four Tops perform.

                See you next week.

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

August 23,2024

Blog #3

                We are up to date on the status of my book, so today I would like to discuss another important artistic influence in my writing, theatre. The most inspirational musical I have seen is Wicked. The story returns us to Oz, where the Good Witch and the Bad Witch become college roommates, and the most unlikely of friends. The moral of the story is that none of us is completely good or evil, and that there is plenty of blame to go around. The Scarecrow takes us Dancing Through Life, where we learn that nothing matters, except knowing nothing matters. I have used the lyrics of For Good to memorialize our son.

They say that people come into our lives for a reason

I don’t know if that is true

But I am changed because of you

Who can say if I’ve been changed for the better?

I believe that I’ve been changed for the better

Because I knew you

I have been changed for good.

The most inspirational dramatic play I have seen is The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime. It’s the story of a high functioning young Autistic adult man striving to live independently as a contributing member of society. There’s no lack of intellectual ability, but he experiences sensory overload from everyday sounds such as the underground trains he has to travel on to write his University entrance exams in Mathematics and Physics. He can be easily overcome in social situations as it’s difficult for him to interpret facial and verbal cues. For these reasons, many of his teachers and fellow students have underestimated his abilities. This play is an excellent guide for family, friends, teachers, and counsellors who want to be supportive to people on the autism spectrum.

                An education in the Arts is essential. I have learned so many valuable life lessons in the theatre.

                Next week I’ll bring you updates on the progress of my book and talk more about my creative process. I’ll see you then!

August 30 2024

Blog # 4

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

                Today I’m going to talk about how inspirational movies have been in my writing. My favorite movie is American Fiction, a satire of the book publishing industry. Our hero is an English professor, who is the author of several books which have received critical notice but haven’t sold well. When his mother’s health declines, and she has to go into an assisted care facility, he can’t afford to pay her medical expenses. He read a popular novel, and quickly figured out who his target audience was; namely the poorly educated. He discovered a revenue stream from a series of books he wrote after he sold his soul as an author, with hilarious results.

                Another movie which I find powerful is a foreign film, The Zone of Interest. It is the true story of the Hoss family who lived in luxury just outside the gates of Auschwitz. The father was the officer in charge of the Final Solution. We hear gunfire and screams in the background, while the family goes about their everyday lives. We see flames and clouds of ashes coming out of the smokestacks. There is a particularly chilling solo scene, without dialogue, by German actress Sandra Huller, who portrays Mrs. Hoss. She admires herself in the mirror modeling a full-length mink coat. We realize in horror that it had recently belonged to a woman who died in the concentration camp, when Mrs. Hoss reached into the coat pocket and found a tube of lipstick. She tested some of the red lipstick, and immediately wiped it off in disgust. Then then she gave the coat to the maid to have it cleaned, because the hem was dirty.

                I am inspired by so many movies which are based on the great works of literature, including Harper Lee’s timeless classic, To Kill a Mockingbird, and the original movie of Stephen King’s The Dead Zone. Christopher Walken’s portrayal of the hero, a teacher who lost many years of his life in a coma, and awakened with second sight, is one of his best performances. Stephen King prophesied recent event in politics, when our hero was tutoring a boy who was struggling at school . The boy’s father was visited by a campaigning presidential candidate, who was portrayed by Martin Sheen. As the politician was leaving, the boy’s father said to his son’s tutor, “Get yourself registered, and vote against this turkey”.

                That’s all for now. I’ll see you next week, when I’ll talk about television series that have inspired me as a writer.

September 6

Blog-5

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

                Drumroll please! I will soon have a physical copy of my book. It should be available in print, eBook, and audiobook by mid fall.

                Today I will discuss the influence that television programs have had on my writing. The quality and content of the shows has improved dramatically from the early days of television. My favorite series is The Affair, which tackled the issue of infidelity through the perspectives of all the members of both families who were affected. Everyone remembered the events differently.

                Season three of The Bear left a lasting impression on me. The Berzolli family restaurant has been entrusted to the oldest surviving brother, Chef Carmine. He and his sister Sugar, the business manager of the restaurant, have survived a tumultuous upbringing, full of uncertainties and insecurities. They are damaged people, doing their best to thrive, and keep the family business from going under, Jamie Lee Curtis gave an outstanding performance as their manic-depressive mother, who is self-medicating to cope. She’s a sympathetic character, because she is doing her best to inflict no further damage onto her children.

.               Six Feet Under is one of the most influential television series that I’ve watched. The Fisher family business is a funeral parlour. The premise of the show is that everything ends. The truth is that you should live every day as if it’s your last, because it just might be! During one of my favorite episodes, the Room, the manager of the family business, David, says to his older brother Nate, who has returned to work in the company, “You won’t be happy until we’re all in therapy, will you?” That line reminded me of the most recent events in my own family!

                Under the Bridge is a limited television series based on the book by Rebecca Godfrey. It’s a tragic true crime story about the 1997 swarming death of Victoria teenager Reena Virk. I remember these events as they unfolded because it seemed unbelievable at the time. Reena just wanted to be accepted by her peers, as everyone does. She had the misfortune of moving with the wrong crowd, at risk teenagers. The ringleader Kelley Marie Ellard came from a privileged background. The incident started with a misunderstanding, as it usually does. Reena felt excluded, so she went behind her friend’s back with a telephone campaign, in an attempt to damage her reputation.

                Reena was excited to be invited to a gathering at the harbour. That’s when the crowd turned on her, punching and kicking her, and even burning her between her eyes with a cigarette. Reena, scared and humiliated, started to walk home alone, under the bridge. Kelly Ellard returned with her then boyfriend, Warren Glowatski, to finish what she had started. Kelly held Reena’s arms behind her back, while Warren continued to kick and punch Reena. Then Kelly drowned her, and they left her body in the ocean.

                Most of the juveniles stood trial, and were found guilty, sentenced to detention. Kelly and Warren were tried for first degree murder. Even with the best legal defense team in B.C., Kelly was found guilty. Warren was also convicted, but he almost immediately accepted responsibility for the violent crime. Kelly Ellard didn’t admit guilt until recently, when she herself became a mother.

                That’s all for now! I’ll see you next week, when I’ll talk about the contribution music has made to my writing process.

September 13, 2024

Blog number 6

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

Today I’m writing to you while I’m on vacation in Scottsdale, looking forward to relaxing by the pool. I’m happy to report that my book is on its way to the printers, and I will have a proof copy soon!

I wanted to discuss music, because all my friends know that I think in song lyrics. My essential albums are as follows:

Disintegration, the 1989 masterpiece by The Cure
Ziggy Stardust, by David Bowie
Meat is Murder, by The Smiths
Back to Black, by Amy Winehouse
American Idiot, by Green Day
Jagged Little Pill, by Alanis Morrisette

The songs the saved my life are as follows:

L.A. Woman, and Hello, I Live You, by The Doors
Disorder, and Love Will Tear Us Apart, by Joy Division
Happy House, Spellbound, and Cities in Dust, by Siouxsie and the Banshees
Head Over Heels, and Everybody Wants to Rule the World, by Tears for Fears
Too Bad, by Doug and the Slugs
What Do You Mean, by Justin Bieber
Suit and Tie, by Justin Timberlake
Personal Jesus, Enjoy the Silence, and Ghosts Again, by Depeche Mode
I Can Hear Music, by The Beach Boys
Desperado, and Hotel California, by The Eagles
Viva La Vida, by Coldplay
Brandy, by Looking Glass
The Only Living Boy in New York, and The Sounds of Silence, by Simon and Garfunkel
Kiss on My List, and Sarah Smile, by Hall and Oates
Lovely Day, by Bill Withers
I’m Scared, by Burton Cummings
One, Two, Three, Four, and Go Away, by Gloria Estefan
Faith, Last Christmas, and Careless Whisper, by George Michael
Don’t Stop Me Know, and Bohemian Rhapsody, by Queen
Diamonds and Pearls, 1999, I Wanna Be Your Lover, and Let’s Go Crazy, by Prince
Rock With You, Girlfriend, and Off the Wall, by Michael Jackson
Close To You, and We’ve Only Just Begun, by the Carpenters
Imagine, and Beautiful Boy, by John Lennon
Kentucky Rain, and If I Can Dream, by Elvis Presley
I Wish That It Would Rain, My Girl, and Just My Imagination by The Temptations
What’s Going On, Sexual Healing, Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing, Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, Mercy, Mercy Me, and What’s Going On, by Marvin Gaye
Could It Be I’m Falling in Love, and I’ll Be Around, by The Spinners
Baby, I Need Your Loving, Bernadette, and Just Walk Away Rene, by The Four Tops
She’s a Lady, It’s Not Unusual, Delilah, and The Green, Green Grass of Home, by Tom Jones
What’s Love Got to do With It, Private Dancer, I Don’t Wanna Fight, and Ragdoll, by Tina Turner

That’s all for now! I’ll see you next week, when I’ll tell you about the fun we’re having on vacation in Arizona.

September 20, 2024

Blog # 7

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

Today I want to discuss the passion I pursue when I’m not writing, travelling! We’re having fun in Scottsdale.

We watched The Emmy Awards on Sunday. Congratulations to The Bear on their record eleven wins. Special mention goes to Jamie Lee Curtis for her portrayal of Donna Berzolli in the episode Fishes. She gave a standout performance as chef Carmine and business manager Sugar’s manic-depressive mother, who is self-medicating in order to cope.

It’s no surprise that Jean Smart won another Emmy Award for Hacks, although she quipped, “I really appreciate it, because I don’t get enough attention. I’m serious!” Her character Deborah Vance is based on the life of comedy great Joan Rivers.

We went to see Beetlejuice Beetlejuice at the IMAX theatre in Phoenix yesterday. I don’t usually recommend movie sequels, but this one was just as good as the original.

We visited spectacular Sedona today! We saw a Raven, and many Red rock formations including Lucy, Woodstock, and Snoopy. We went on a Pink Jeep Tour of Diamondback Gulch. We drove through Greasy Gulch, where they brought the chuck wagons to feed the cowboys who took care of their cattle. We saw Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, Courthouse Butte, Lost Wilson Mountain, Wilson Mountain and Roundtop.

That’s all for now! I’ll see you next week when I’ll tell you about our wine dinner, and the Desert Botanical Gardens.

September 27, 2024

Blog # 8

This week we went to a wine dinner at our vacation home in Scottsdale. We met a nice couple from Massachusetts, ate delicious food, and tasted wine that would normally be far out of our price range!

Today we visited the Desert Botanical Gardens in Phoenix. I’m an Advanced Master Gardener at VanDusen in Vancouver, but I don’t usually get to see so many species of Cacti. They are all unique, especially the Saguaro, which is the indicator species of the Sonoran Desert. We saw beautiful butterflies, a Crested Lizard, and a Bevy of Quails!

We walked the Desert Wildflower Trail, which included the Butterfly Garden, and the Hummingbird Garden. We hiked the Center for Desert Living Trail, which included the Herb Garden. We did the Desert Discovery Trail, where we saw the Giant Mexican Cardon Cactus, which is over 75 years old. They can grow to a height of 60 feet. We saw a historic plant, cultivated in the garden since 1939, the Crested Mammillaria. This brain shaped cactus has learned much over its 85 years at the garden.

I was sad to learn that Cacti are the fifth most threatened desert species due to climate change.

That’s all for this week! I’ll see you next week when I hopefully will be able to approve my proof copy of What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves. The next step after my nonfiction novella is released will be selecting the narrators for the audiobook!

October 4, 2024

Blog 9

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

I have exciting news to share with you; I have received the proof copy of my nonfiction novella! It will be available to purchase soon in print, eBook, and audiobook.

We’re back home in Vancouver, preparing for our next travel adventure soon. We have decorated the house for Halloween, which is one of my favorite holidays.

Monday September 30^th was Canada’s National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. I wore my Orange Shirt with pride, to honour my maternal grandmother, who was Metis, born in Saskatchewan. She hand beaded the gloves which are featured in my upcoming nonfiction novella. The gloves are over 100 years old.

Every October I write a word on our pumpkin, each day of the month, in honour of all my Metis ancestors. My Great Aunt was a residential school survivor. My aunt and uncle weren’t so lucky. They died in prison. My cousin was born addicted. The only relatives left to raise her were my Great Aunt, who was too old, and her second husband, who didn’t want my cousin. My childless aunt didn’t want my cousin either, but she would have been a bad parent anyway, because she was an alcoholic.

Here is what I have written on the pumpkin so far, this October; Through Truth and Reconciliation Comes

That’s all I have for this week, but things are developing quickly for me as a published author! Thank you for reading.

October 11, 2024

Blog # 10

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

I have exciting news to share with you; I have received the proof copy of my nonfiction novella. An omission was included, and an error in the text was corrected. The proof copy interior correction was also done. What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves will be available to purchase soon in print, eBook, and audiobook.

We’re back home in Vancouver, preparing for our next travel adventure in Las Vegas. We celebrated our 45^th wedding anniversary on October 6^th .

On October 9^th, we caught up with our friends from World Cruise 2022, Frank and Connie Kislan! The cruise ship they are travelling on now made a stop in Vancouver, so we showed them around a bit before we took them out to lunch at The Sandbar, on Granville Island. We returned them to the ship ahead of onboard time. It’s always great to catch up with old friends!

Here is what I have written on the pumpkin so far this October; Through Truth and Reconciliation Comes Justice and Healing Every Child Matters Tax the Churches.

I’ll see you next week, when I’ll tell you about the Eagles concert at The Sphere. I’ll have information for you about my book release date, pricing, and distribution.Stay tuned!

October 18, 2024

Blog Issue #11

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

I had a telephone meeting on Monday, October 14^th, with Cameron Finch of Atmosphere Press to discuss how to make the greatest impact with my book. The purchase prices, in US dollars, will be as follows: $7.99 US for the eBook, $12.99 US for a paperback, and $20.00 US for a hardcover copy. Preorder options will be available. The release date will be December 3^rd. The eBook is now available to preorder on Amazon, for $9.99 Canadian, and $7.99 US. Distribution will be through Ingram.

We belatedly celebrated our 45^th wedding anniversary by travelling to Las Vegas on October 11^th, for a two night stay at the Venetian Hotel. We went to see Ray Romano on the first evening. We really enjoyed his show! He was genuinely funny when he talked about marriage and parenting. He ended his show with outtakes from Everyone Loves Raymond; they were hilarious!

The next morning, we went to the Mandalay Bay hotel for two of my must do items while I’m in Las Vegas; going to the Shark Reef exhibit, followed by Mexican cuisine at the Border Grill.

The highlight of our trip was the Eagles concert at the Sphere on October 12^th . We started with a 5-course dinner at Mott 32, in the Palazzo hotel. We proceeded to the Sphere, the most impressive concert venue I’ve ever seen. The visuals are a show in themselves. The Eagles put on a great performance, as we expected. I’m sure Glenn Frey was watching his son Deacon with pride, since he has toured with the band masterfully playing his father’s part. The Eagles performed all of their greatest hits including Desperado, Hotel California, I Can’t Tell You Why, Take it Easy, New Kid in Town, and Tequila Sunrise.

I had an appointment with master artist Lee Ozeki at Apex Tattoo in Abbotsford, B.C., on October 15^th. My new ink is the title of my first nonfiction novella, What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves!

Here is what I have written on the pumpkin so far this October, Through Truth and Reconciliation Comes Justice and Healing Every Child Matters Tax the Churches to pay for the Searches for the Little Bones and the Missing

I’ll see you next week to update you on life here in Vancouver, and the status of my book!

October 25, 2024

Blog # 12

I have exciting news about my upcoming book, “What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves”! I have received the promotional one-sheet from Atmosphere Press. My first nonfiction novel is available to preorder in eBook for $9.99 Canadian, and $7.99 US. My author copies have been shipped, so in one week I should have 60 paperbacks to share with friends!

Here is what I have written on the pumpkin so far this October. Through Truth and Reconciliation Comes Justice and Healing Every Child Matters Tax the Churches to pay for the Searches for the Little Bones and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Watch Reservation Dogs.

I will soon proudly wear my beautiful seal skin Poppy to honour our veterans. It was designed by Inuk artist Trudy Metcalfe-Coe, If you would like to have one of your own Poppies to wear on Remembrance Day, November 11^th, they are available to purchase at the Canadian Legion, at www.legion.ca!

I’ll see you next week with an update you on life in Vancouver, and the status of my book! Our 50^th high school reunion will be on Saturday, October 26^th. It should be interesting!

Here is a link to the first review of my book!

https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/what-really-happened-to the-hat-and-the-gloves

@atmospherepress

November 1, 2024

Blog # 13

What really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

It was 1974. Benny and the Jets, by Elton John, from his epic album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, was #1 on the charts. October 26^th was the 50^th high school reunion of Point Grey Secondary School. This brilliant event was held at Tap & Barrel Bridges Restaurant on Granville Island. One hundred and twelve of us grads were in attendance, including my husband and me. If I have a launch party for What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves, I hope it will be at least half as successful as this event was. It was organized by Liz du Fresne, Ann Hunt, Terry Walters, John Rose, Trish MacDonald, and Lori Scott. Several people were nice enough to express interest in my book, so I gave them my card which has my contact information on it. I enjoyed catching up with many of my fellow grads who are very accomplished people. The highlight for me was Paul Louie’s closing speech when he talked about a subject that’s so relevant to me: our Indigenous ancestors who were robbed of their land, culture, and language. We have begun the important work of Truth and Reconciliation, but we have far to go before we achieve Healing and Justice.

People also complimented me on my beautiful seal skin Poppy, which I proudly wear to honour our veterans. It was designed by Inuk artist Trudy Metcalfe-Coe. If you would like to have one of your own Poppies to wear on Remembrance Day, November 11^th, they are available for purchase at the Canadian Legion, at www.legion.ca !

Here is what I have written on the pumpkin this year: Through Truth and Reconciliation Comes Justice and Healing Every Child Matters Tax the Churches to pay for the Searches for the Little Bones and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Watch Reservation Dogs Your Home is on Native Land

This is an exciting day for fans of The Cure. We have waited 16 years for the release of a new album, and today, Songs of the Lost World is here! The best band in the world is also the most generous to their fans; in less than one hour, at 1 pm Pacific Daylight time, they will livestream their performance at the Troxy, on YouTube.

This is also an exciting day for my upcoming book, “ What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves”! I have received the promotional one-sheet from Atmosphere Press. My book has also been reviewed by Ann Linus in readersfavorite.com. Here is the link to it https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/what-really-happened-to-the-hat-and-the-gloves

My first nonfiction novella is available to preorder in eBook for $9.99 Canadian, and $7.99 US. I have 60 author copies to share with friends, who are encouraged to post reviews on readersfavorite.com.

I had a telephone meeting with Atmosphere’s Director of Publicity, Hayla Alawhi. I have a second review coming on Book Commentary. I can direct people who have read my book to post a review on the Goodreads listing, or Amazon. After my book is released on December 3^rd, I can include the one-sheet when I approach book stores and libraries. When the manuscript is available, Atmosphere Press will begin a Netgalley campaign with a site listing for my book, with a membership of industry professionals. The one-sheet contains the ISBN number.

Suggested venues for a book launch include local bookstores and libraries, Art Galleries, and Museums. I will also be able to email local newspapers, and the Alzheimer’s Society.

That’s everything until next week! Thank you for reading.

November 8, 2024

Blog #14

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

The wait is long for my The Cure Songs of a Lost World shipping order, but in the meantime, I have received the author’s hardcopy of my book.

My book is now live on Goodreads : https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/220419960-hwat-really-happened-to-the-hat-and-the-gloves?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=8YByz2LQc&rank=1 People who have read my book are encouraged to post a review in the Goodreads listing, or Amazon.

I have a second review coming on Book Commentary. I can direct people who have read my book to post a review on the Goodreads listing, or Amazon. After my book is released on December 3^rd, I can include the one-sheet when I approach book stores and libraries. When the manuscript is available, Atmosphere Press will begin a Netgalley campaign with a site listing for my book, with a membership of industry professionals. The one-sheet contains the ISBN number.

Suggested venues for a book launch include local bookstores and libraries, Art Galleries, and Museums. I will also be able to email local newspapers, and the Alzheimer’s Society.

That’s everything until next week! Thank you for reading.

November 15, 2024

Blog # 15

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

RIP Jeremy Cook, November 9, 1989, to May 31, 2015. Our son would have been 35 years old. He is loved and missed every day by his Mom, his Dad Philip, and his only sibling, Charlton Jeremy Cook.

For what it’s worth, it was worth all the while

It’s something unpredictable, but in the end it’s right

I hope you had the time of your life

Good Riddance, by Green Day

Jeremy was born the day the Berlin Wall came down.

The wait to receive my The Cure Songs of a Lost World shipping order is over! It was inexplicably delivered to an address we hadn’t lived at for 13 years. My faith in human nature has been restored. People we had never met before were nice enough to telephone my husband to pick up my parcel. I now have my deluxe CD, and T-shirt!

Suggested venues for a book launch include local bookstores and libraries, Art Galleries, and Museums. I will also be able to email local newspapers, and the Alzheimer’s Society.

That’s everything until next week! Thank you for reading.

November 22, 2024

Blog Issue #16

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

Here’s the latest meme I posted. Apparently, I will go to Heaven after all:

Say Yes to Books

A chicken walks into a library and up to the desk.

“Buk”, says the chicken. So, the librarian gives him a book. The chicken leaves with the book and returns five minutes later. “Buk”, he says. So, the librarian gives him another book. This goes on about eight more times, until finally the librarian leaves the library and goes outside on break in back where there’s a pond. The chicken is standing on the edge of the pond tossing the books to a frog on a Lilypad. The chicken says “Buk, Buk” and the frog says “Reddit, reddit”.

Now that I’ve explained why reading is important, here’s the latest book I purchased:

the cure

pictures of you

photographs by tom sheehan

foreword by robert smith

“WHY DON’T YOU AND THE OTHER HERBERT GET STUCK IN THAT SPINNING HENRY WHILST I FIRE OFF A COUPLE OF FRAMES AND WE SHOULD BEFORE THE TAPSTER’S HAD TIME TO POUR YOUR NEXT GARGLE…”

MEETING TOM SHEEHAN AS EARLY AS WE DID MEANT MOST SUBSEQUENT PHOTOGRAPHERS- FAFFING, FUSSING, FRETTING, EASILY UNDERSTOOD- SUFFERED BADLY BY COMPARISON

TOM WAS ALWAYS SHORT, SHARP, SURE AND SLIGHTLY FUGITIVE- TRICKING US ‘HERBERTS’ INTO CASUAL POSE WITH THE ARTFUL BUT SNEAKY TECHNIQUE OF RABBITING -NOT-LOOKING-THROUGH-THE-CAMERA AS HE SNAPPED HAPPILY AWAY-CHIDING US ALL INTO A MORE CONSIDERED MOOD WITH A “CHIN UP MINCERS WIDE LESS HAMPSTEADS REMEMBER YOU’RE A GOTH BAND CHAPS” ADMONISHMENT OR TWO- CONFOUNDING US WITH A NINJA-LIKE ABILITY TO HIDE IN PLAIN SIGHT, A ROLL OF FILM CHANGED BEFORE THE SCRUFFS HAD EVEN NOTICED HE WAS TAKING PICTURES…

AND OF COURSE ‘SESSIONS WITH SHEEHAN’ WERE ALWAYS SO MUCH MORE THAN JUST PICTURE-TAKING-LOSING MEMBERS OF THE ENTOURAGE ONE BY ONE UNTIL THE INVARIABLE SMALL BRUISED BAND OF FOOLS WOULD ARRIVE SOMEWHERE SHADOWED, SMOKY, STRANGE AND OFTEN VERY STOKE-ON …

BUT THE MOST MEMORABLE THING

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING

WAS THE WONDERFUL FEELING WE HAD

THAT HERE WAS SOMEONE WAS NOT ONLY

A REALLY GOOD PHOTOGRAPHER

BUT A REALLY GOOD MAN…

… A REALLY GOOD BAIZE LEGEND RUBY STAR

TOP GEEZER SMUDGE MAN!

ROBERT SMITH

I’ll conclude this week’s newsletter by quoting my favorite modern day author, Stephen King, from The Stand, The Complete and Uncut Edition.

This morning, before first light, she had crept up to the attic, where her father’s few possessions were stored in cardboard boxes. Her father had been a merchant seaman. He had deserted Irma’s mother in the late sixties. Irma’s mother had told Irma all about it. She had been perfectly frank. Her father had been a beast who got drunk and then wanted to rape her. They all did. When you got married, that gave a man the right to rape you anytime he wanted. Even in the daytime. Irma’s mother always summed up her husband’s desertion in three words, the same words Irma could have applied to the death of almost every man, woman, and child on the face of the earth: “No great loss.”

I’ll see you next week. Please keep reading!

Blog #17

November 29, 2024

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

As Elvis Costello crooned, “Everyday, every day, every day, I write the book… In chapters four, five, and six, I write the sequel”.

On Friday we celebrated the upcoming release of my nonfiction book by dining at Published on Main, which is one of Vancouver’s Michelin starred restaurants. We met up with Darrel Cook, who is not related to me, or my husband Philip Cook. Most people assume that we must be related though, because we have much more in common with Darrel than either one of us share with any of our actual blood relatives. The only exception to this rule is our child, Charlton Jeremy Cook.

We veered away from ordering the $101 cocktail, but if we ever win the lottery, I shall return to Published and order one. Here is the ten course menu that we enjoyed:

1^st

SNACKS

chef’s selection

2^nd

SQUID

Warm mushroom broth, parsley, fine herbs

3^rd

HIRIAMA

Truffle ponzu, kelp condiment, daikon

4^th

RAW SIDE STRIPE SHRIMP

Buttermilk, dill, malt

5^th

PICKEREL

Shellfish broth, brassicas

6^th

WINTER SQUASH

Pepita miso, koji butter, currants

7^th

BISON

Salsify, truffle, coffee

8^th

FOIE GRAS

beets, spekulatius

9^th

SUNCHOKE

apple, dulce

10^th

BLUEBERRY

Chocolate, spruce

The portions were small, so it wasn’t as much food as it seems. I am a fan of The Bear, which is a television series on Disney+. The Chef Du Parti at Published looks like Richie Jerimovich, the cousin of the Head Chef Carmine Berzolli. The beautiful Carmine must have been working hard behind the scenes in the kitchen!

The weather in Vancouver, Canada, has been good, despite the dire forecasts of Bomb Cyclones, and Atmospheric Rivers. We went for a walk in the River District on Saturday and took many beautiful pictures on my new iPhone 16.

Until next week, here is a quote from my favorite band, The Cure “I leave you with photographs”.

Blog # 18

December 6, 2025

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

Something has changed within me. Today I’m Galinda. Tomorrow I might be Elphaba. I can’t stop thinking about Wicked, Part One, since I saw it at the Imax theatre last Wednesday. It was visually stunning, and the story was perfectly told by Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Jonathan Bailey, and Jeff Goldblum, who was the greatest Wizard there ever was. If you can’t go to the theatre to see the movie, the soundtrack is available. I have been listening to it nonstop, only alternating with Songs of a Lost World, by The Cure. While I decorated the house for Christmas, I spent One Short Day, in the Emerald City. I planned what the Wizard and I would do when we met. I went Dancing Through Life with the Scarecrow, who explained that “Life is painless, for the brainless”. I had a high school friend try to teach me how to be Popular, but she didn’t succeed anymore than Galinda’s well-meaning effort did with Elphaba. Elphaba just continued being green. When they first became roommates at the College of Shiz, Galinda and Elphaba were overcome by feelings of Loathing. But everything changed when Galinda was kind to Elphaba’s sister Nessa. Elphaba did receive an invitation to meet the Wizard. Elphaba invited her best friend to come with her to the Emerald City. When we first meet the Wizard of Oz, he is handsome, charming, and can sing and dance. But Elphaba immediately saw right through him. She said to the Wizard,” You need me, because you have no power.” Jeff Goldblum looked right into the camera and replied, “Exactly.” But Elphaba had really done it this time. Galinda was terrified. She said to her friend Elphaba, “I hope you’re happy now.” Part one of Wicked ended with Elphaba Defying Gravity. If you care to find Elphaba, look to the Western Sky! I will have to wait until next year to return to Oz.

The house is now decorated for Christmas. I have been busy writing this week. I have submitted another manuscript to Atmosphere Press. I am still writing the book, because two chapters of my nonfiction work are still unwritten.

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves was released on December 3^rd. I will be doing a reading with Atmosphere Press on January 7^th, at 3:00 pm Pacific Standard Time.

Here is the latest review of my book!

Buy on AmazonBuy Locally

What Really Happened To The Hat and The Gloves

Category:	Memoir
Author:	Cynthia Cook
Publisher:	Atmosphere Press
Publication Date:	December 3, 2024
Number of Pages:	46
ISBN-13:	979-8891324558
ASIN:	B0DK2JX165

Cynthia Cook’s book, What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves, delivers a complex story of familial conflict, deception, and the subjective nature of truth. The narrative is centered around Marion, a wealth-possessing yet mentally declining matriarch. Her son, Shane, and his partner, Sunshine, attempt to care for her while struggling with the intricate dynamics involving Marion’s sister, Candace, and brother-in-law, Paul, who are purportedly involved in the destruction of a cherished hat and the acquisition of heirloom gloves under false pretenses. The plot unravels through personal testimonials from key characters, painting a multifaceted perspective on the incidents concerning the titular hat and gloves. With each chapter, characters divulge competing narratives, wrestling over events clouded by Marion’s Alzheimer’s and familial tensions. The gloves, beaded by Marion and Candace’s grandmother, carry sentimental value and symbolize the enduring conflicts and mistrust within this family dynamic. Intertwined with Sunshine’s emotional past, the hat accentuates deeper layers of resentment and perceived betrayal, especially when Marion accuses Candace of malicious intent. Can this family uncover and embrace the truth amid the chaos of illness?

The setting spans Canadian locales like Vancouver and Park City, providing a geographical dispersal that mirrors the emotional distances within the family. Despite these vibrant and dynamic settings, the story remains rooted in the interpersonal spaces that govern family ties. This is juxtaposed with Marion’s mental landscape, which is both familiar and disorienting—a reflection of her diminishing cognition. Thematically, the book examines a patient’s memory’s reliability, the faltering grasp of reality versus perception in declining mental health, and the destructive potential of assumptions and half-truths. Candace and Paul’s narrative exposes the often selfish and blindsides of familial love, constrained by personal histories and misunderstandings. The novel weaves a web of perspective, demonstrating how each character’s truth is saturated with bias and recollection, challenging readers to ponder the authenticity of the so-called “facts.” The characters are unforgettable. Marion is a tragic embodiment of vulnerability, burdened with failing health and trust issues. Shane struggles to balance familial loyalty and personal beliefs. Sunshine, though in a caring profession, is caught in a whirlwind of loss and damaged pride exacerbated by external familial forces. What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves is a true story that is impeccably crafted, loaded with pathos, and features likable characters. It is a breezy read that is heavy with emotional currents.

Reviewed By: Jayne Anne Rooney

Date: December 5, 2024

https://thebookcommentary.com/review-preview/1517/what-really-happened-to-the-hat-and-the-gloves

I’ll see you next week! In the meantime, please keep reading, keep calm, and listen to The Cure

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

Blog #19

This is you invitation to my Zoom reading of my nonfiction book on January 7. 2025 at 3:00pm Pacific Standard Time. Please join me for what will be my first reading, but hopefully not my last!

You are invited to a Zoom meeting.
When: Jan 7, 2025 03:00 Pacific Time (US and Canada)

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

That’s all my news for this week! Please keep reading, keep calm, and listen to The Cure!

Blog #20

December 20, 2024

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

Cynthia Cook Author of What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

Hi there,

You are invited to a Zoom meeting.
When: Jan 7, 2025 03:00 PM Pacific Standard Time (US and Canada)

Register in advance for this meeting:
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMuduuoqT0pHNaDWbbLad5YBRv9hGP4HMnK

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Here is the link to my book’s listing on NetGalley: https://www.netgalley.com/catalog/book/528087

I thank all my Canadian friends who have expressed interest in my first nonfiction book. It is now available to order on Amazon.ca in hardcover for $40 Cdn.

We had an enjoyable weekend in Seattle, celebrating my birthday! We had dinner at Place Pigalle, in Pike Place Market, on Friday. Seattle had windy and rainy weather on my birthday, which was Saturday. But that didn’t prevent us from having brunch at Lowell’s in Pike Place Market, and spending the evening at Jazz Alley! First we a had Prime Rib dinner, and then we were entertained in style by The Spinners. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2023, and their many hits include Could It Be I’m Falling in Love, It’s a Shame, and I’ll be Around.

That’s all my news for this week; please keep reading!

December 27, 2025

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

Blog #21

I have exciting news! Kyle McCord of Atmosphere Press has accepted the sequel to my nonfiction book for publication. I still have two chapters to write, but What Really Happened to Marion and Candace will be released in 2025!

Please join Atmosphere Press for a cozy New Year reading. Save your free virtual spot for the latest can’t miss author events below hosted by the Atmosphere Press team! January 7, 2025, at 3PM/PST/5PM CST, join Atmosphere Press for a reading with David Linebarger (Tennis Players as Works of Art), Cynthia Cook (What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves), and Gardner Landry (Songs of My Father and Other Essays).

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMuduuoqT0pHNaDWbbLad5YBRv9hGP4HMnK

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Here are two blurbs for “What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves”, from two published Atmosphere authors.

Blurb #1: “A mixed salad of flavorful characters in a tragic tale of who done it as the family struggles with the crippling strain of Alzheimer’s Disease.” Kara L. Zajac, author of The Significance of Curly Hair: A Loving Memoir of Life and Loss.

Blurb #2: “What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves, sets the stage for a deeply emotional and thought-provoking narrative. The narrative is told from multiple perspectives, providing readers with an intimate view of each character’s experience, revealing how each person remembers events differently and how their individual biases shape their perceptions of reality. Cynthia Cook’s writing challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths not only on the individual but on the family as a whole.” Charnjit Gill, author of Pray Tell.

We have enjoyed a quiet festive season here in Vancouver. We dined at Bufala on Sunday, December 22^nd. We shopped for Christmas dinner at Granville Island Public Market on Christmas Eve, then enjoyed a walk in the River District. Charlie joined us on Christmas Day to exchange gifts, and then feast on our traditional lobster dinner. We are going to Lucky Taco for dinner tonight, to celebrate the publication of “What Really Happened to Marion and Candace”!

That’s all my news for this week, Happy New Year, and please keep reading!

January 3, 2025

Blog # 22

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

Happy New Year! I’ve been busy since my last update. We celebrated the new publishing contract I signed with Atmosphere Press for the sequel to my nonfiction book, “What Really Happened to Marion and Candace”, by going out to our old favorite restaurant in the River District pf Vancouver, Romer’s, on December 30, 2024. We enjoyed a pleasant, but quiet evening at home on New Year’s Eve. We rewatched Wicked, Part One, and The Cure’s Concert at The Troxy. I unexpectedly reconnected with one of my cousins on my mother’s side of the family, and we’re going to meet and have coffee. I have written another chapter of “What Really Happened to Marion and Candace”, but I have to do more research before I can complete another two chapters.

I updated my profile on The Point Grey Secondary School 50^th Reunion of Grad ‘74 on January 1^st. We took down our Christmas decorations on New Years Day, because we have to start packing for our cruise, the Grand Voyage Pole to Pole. Three of our suitcases will be picked up by FedEx on January 6^th, for delivery to The Volendam. We are allowed to bring two more suitcases each on our flights, in three weeks. We’ll start packing those bags on January 20^th.

I hope to have more news for you soon about the audiobook of “What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves”. Please join me for my first reading with Atmosphere Press on January 7^th, at 3PM PST. In the meantime, keep calm, and keep reading!

January 10, 2025

Blog # 23

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

We met for coffee with one of my maternal cousins today. I gave her a copy of my nonfiction book, and told her that most of the information she had inquired about with respect to our family was told in my story. Now I have written another chapter of the sequel “What Really Happened to Marion and Candace”, which introduces a new character, with their perspective. I have more research to do before I can complete another two chapters.

Here is a link to my reading of “What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves”, January 7^th, for Atmosphere Press. Please listen to the end, because all three authors received thought provoking questions from the audience!

In other good news, the audiobook of “What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves” will be available soon on Amazon, Apple, Google and Spotify.

Our luggage was collected for delivery to our cruise ship, on the third try. It was three days late, so I hope it arrives on time, after all the delays!

That’s all for this week! In the meantime, keep calm, and keep reading.

January 17, 2025

Blog # 25

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

I had dinner with my husband Philip Cook, and our only child Charlie, at Sula on Commercial Drive, Vancouver, on Monday, the 13^th of January. They serve excellent Indian food, and they have another location on Main Street.

My shipment of four hardcover copies of my book was also delivered on Monday. Many thanks to my friend in Tulsa, for mailing them to me via Express Post! They have arrived with time to spare before we travel next week. I wanted to have a few extra copies to donate to the library on our cruise ship.

I heard from my cousin again. She read my book. I hope that we stay in contact.

That’s all my news for this week! I promise to have more interesting content for you in my upcoming blogs. In the meantime, keep calm and keep reading!

Hi Cynthia,

As you know, we’ve been running a NetGalley campaign for What Really Happened To The Hat and The Gloves, which has promoted your book to booksellers, librarians, educators, and reviewers from countries around the world. As the campaign comes to a close, I wanted to give you an update on how things went.

Your book reached 357 people, including reviewers based in the US and the UK; librarians at both public and academic library systems; and booksellers at locations of chains like Waterstones.

Out of the author, book title, cover, description, and hearsay, NetGalley members select which option they were most interested in for any given book. For What Really Happened To The Hat and The Gloves, members were most interested in the book’s description, followed by the cover.

While there’s not a way for you to take “control” over your NetGalley page, since the page is maintained through Atmosphere’s NetGalley account, you can always view and share this public page: https://www.netgalley.com/catalog/book/528087

This week, we’ll be sending follow-up emails to all folks who have already requested and downloaded your book, reminding them to post their reviews and see about their interest in connecting with the author. I’m glad that your book made such a great impression on this global literary stage!

Thanks,

Hayla

January 23, 2025

Blog #26

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

I had dinner with my husband Philip Cook, at our friends Tony and Kelly’s house in Surrey, on Saturday January 18^th. We enjoyed excellent food, wine and company. I gave them a signed copy of my book.

My shipment of four hardcover copies of my book from Atmosphere Press arrived on Monday, January 20^th, with plenty of time to spare before our flight to Toronto today. I wanted extra copies for the library on our cruise ship

I heard from my cousin again. She read my book. I hope that we stay in contact.

I received an email from Hayla Alawi, Publicity Manager of Atmosphere Press. My publisher has been running a Netgalley Campaign for “What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves”, which has promoted my book to booksellers, librarians, educators and reviewers from countries around the world.

My book reached 357 people, including reviewers based in the US and the UK, librarians at both public and academic library systems; and booksellers at locations of chains like Waterstones. Here’s the link to the Netgalley campaign: https://www.netgalley.com/catalog/book/528087

I have exciting news about my nonfiction book, What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves! The audiobook has been released on most platforms including Barnes and Noble, Apple Books, Spotify, Audible, and Google, for $9.95 US, and $10.07 Cdn.

PURCHASE LINKS

https://play.google.com/store/audiobooks/details/Cynthia_Cook_What_Really_Happened_To_The_Hat_and_T?id=AQAAAEAK0A-QFM https://www.kobo.com/us/en/audiobook/what-really-happened-to-the-hat-and-the-gloves https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/what-really-happened-to-the-hat-and-the-gloves-cynthia-cook/1146422712 https://www.storytel.com/se/sv/books/what-really-happened-to-the-hat-and-the-gloves-10279429 https://www.audiobooks.com/audiobook/what-really-happened-to-the-hat-and-the-gloves/863444 https://www.hoopladigital.com/title/17691668

That’s all my news for this week! I’ll have much more to tell you about our cruise, in my next blog. In the meantime, keep calm, and keep reading!

January 31, 2025

Blog #27

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

We flew to Toronto on January 24^th, where we had a five-hour layover. Our connecting flight was to Fort Lauderdale, where we stayed overnight. We boarded our cruise ship on January 25^th, for our Pole-to-Pole Grand Voyage. We enjoyed two days at sea before we reached our first port, Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic on January 28^th. We did a walking tour of the old town, and saw the Christopher Columbus Lighthouse.

We enjoyed another day at sea, and celebrated Chinese New Year on the Volendam, on January 29^th. We reached Santa Marta, Columbia, on January 30^th. We did a tour of the highlights. We visited the Gold Museum, the San Pedro de Alejandrino Villa, a national monument, where Simon Bolivar, the liberator spent his last days. We were entertained with a Columbian folklore show.

I have finished reading four books this January, A Thousand Tiny Stitches, Steps, The Lonely Hearts Hotel, and Is There Still Sex in the City? Our next port will be Puerto Limon, Costa Rica, after we enjoy another sea day today.

That’s all for this week; keep calm, and keep reading!

February 7^th, 2025

Blog # 28

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

We reached Santa Marta, Colombia, on January 30^th. We did a tour of the highlights. We visited the Gold Museum, the San Pedro de Alejandrino Villa, a national monument, where Simon Bolivar, the liberator spent his last days. We were entertained by a Colombian folklore show.

We visited Puerto Limon, Costa Rica, on February 1, 2025. We went to Aviarios del Caribe Sloth Sanctuary, the world’s first sloth rescue center, focused on conservation, rehabilitation, and intimate encounters with these adorable and fascinating creatures. We canoed on the Estrella River, and saw more wildlife, before we visited a banana plantation.

On February 2, 2025, we cruised under the Atlantic Bridge. Designed for the passage of huge container ships, this road bridge in Colon spans the Atlantic entrance to the Panama Canal. The bridge was completed in 2019.

We passed through the Gatun locks. At its Caribbean end, the locks raise ships travelling toward the Pacific to the level of the lake. Three sets of double-lock chambers bring ships almost 100 feet above the water, from the Caribbean Sea into Gatun Lake.

Gatun Lake was formed in 1912, with the damming of the Chagres River. The lake encompasses 166 square miles, and the surface sits at an elevation between 82 and 87 feet above sea level.

We passed through Miraflores Locks, on the Pacific side of the canal, back to the Atlantic side in two steps. Due to an extreme variation of Pacific tides, the lower chamber gates are the highest of any of the Panama Canal Locks. Each lock chamber here, except for the lower locks, has intermediate gates to conserve water by reducing the size of the chamber.

We arrived in Panama City on February 2, 2025. We did a tour of Panama City, old and new. Casa Antiguo is the colonial part of town, and it displays a mix of architectural styles that reflect Panama’s diversity. Caribbean, Republican, Art Deco, French, and colonial styles are seen here. Las Bouedas is the sea wall of the Spanish Fort on the point of the peninsula. The site derives its name from the dungeons embedded in the wall.

We had fun on tour in Manta, Ecuador, on February 5^th, 2025! We went to a cooking demonstration, and made a new friend, Latte, the long-haired Chihuahua. We stopped at a beach resort, Playa San Lorenzo. Next, we watched a demonstration of the skill and artistry that goes into making a Montechristi hat. We made another new friend, the handsome gatto, Antonia. Our last stop was the Tagua button factory, where Vegetable Ivory is carved from the Tagua nut, which is only found in Colombia and Ecuador. We learned about the protected tree species, the Kapok, which closely resembles the African Baobab, or upside-down tree.

Our next port today is Salaverry, Peru. I will write about it next week. In the meantime, keep calm and keep reading!

February 14^th, 2025

Blog #29

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

We visited Trujillo, Peru, on February 7^th, 2025! We walked around Plaza de Armas, the central square, featuring a freedom monument, colonial architecture, a cathedral, and the site of Trujillo’s independence proclamation. We walked down Jiron Francisco Pizarro Street. We stopped at a little café where we enjoyed Pisco Sours. We enjoyed Peruvian food at Salon di Santo Domingo; the traditional pork belly, white corn, potato, and sweet potato.

We arrived in Lima, Peru, on February 9, 2025. We did a night tour of the Magic Water Circuit of Lima, a show of water and lights, which included a stand-up show at the Fantasy Fountain. The Magic Water Circuit of Lima has a Guinness World Record. The circuit consists of 13 fountains that combine movement, light, and sound images. On February 10, 2025, we took the shuttle bus into Miraflores, to enjoy sightseeing and shopping. We enjoyed a traditional lunch of ceviche, at the seaside restaurant, Popular.

On February 11^th,2025, we toured the Peruvian wine country to learn about Pisco, and to sample the local cuisine. At Tacama, one of the oldest vineyards in the Americas, we saw the wine growing process. We tasted three classic wines, red, white, and sparkling. We visited Hacienda La Caravedo, established in 1684. We tasted five different types of Pisco. We enjoyed a lunch of local cuisine, accompanied by a Peruvian Paso horse show. Paso horses have the smoothest gait. We saw an equestrian demonstration set to the rhythms of marinera- a traditional form of music that combined Peruvian, African, and Spanish influences.

On February 13^th, 2025, we visited Arica, Chile. We saw the Cathedral of San Marcos, a 19^th century Gothic style church, designed by Gustave Eiffel. It was built entirely from prefabricated cast iron. We also saw the Morro de Arica, a 360-foot hill. We walked Rafael Sotomayor Street, and Paseo Peatonal 21 de Mayo Street. We stopped at Buen Sitio to enjoy Cervesas.

Today, we are having a relaxing day at sea, sailing to Antofagasta, Chile. Tonight, we are enjoying a St. Valentines dinner at the Pinnacle.

That’s all for this week; keep calm, and keep reading!

February 21, 2025

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

Blog # 30

We enjoyed St. Valentine’s Day Dinner at the Pinnacle Restaurant on the Volendam. The original plan was to arrive in Antofagasta, Chile, on February 15^th, but conditions changed, so we missed our first port of this cruise. Instead, we had another relaxing day at sea, working out in the gym, and then catching up on my reading, followed by a delicious dinner at Morimoto!

We were treated to Sunday brunch in the Dining Room, on February 16^th, 2025. We enjoyed an interesting three course assortment of small plates. We arrived at the port of Santiago, Chile at 3:00 p.m.

We went on a food and wine tour of the Casablanca Valley on February 17^th, 2025. We did a tasting at Veramonte, featuring organic wines. Next, we visited Estancia El Cuadro, to learn the history of Chilean winemaking. We were entertained by a folkloric music performance, and we tasted wines while enjoying a set menu lunch.

We arrived at Isla Robinson Crusoe, Chile on February 19^th,2025. In 1704, Scottish sailor Alexander Selkirk was marooned on this remote island for four years. Robinson Crusoe Island also served as a penal colony for many years, and fur traders hunted here so frequently that the endemic Juan Fernandez fur seal was nearly driven to extinction. In the early twentieth century, Swedish Antarctic expeditions passed through, and during World War 1, the Germans and British fought offshore.

On February 20^th, we went glamping on the Lido Deck and had smores for dessert. Today we arrived in Puerto Montt, Chile.

I finished reading two books in February: The Best Kind of People, by Zoe Whittaker, and Women Talking, by Miriam Towes. That’s all for this week; keep calm and keep reading!

February 28, 2025

What really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

Blog #31

We arrived in Puerto Montt, Chile on February 21^st, 2025. We visited the Handicraft Market, which offers unique Chilean artisan goods. We saw the Escultura Sentados Frente al Mar Statue, the six meter ferroconcrete sculpture by Robinson Barria, which depicts a couple gazing at Reloncavi Sound. We enjoyed a delicious brunch at Los Chilcos Casa Cervecera.

We visited Castro, Isla Grande de Chiloe, Chile for the first time on February 22nd, 2025. This is a unique and historic port, which features shingled houses. No pattern is repeated from house to house.

The first church we visited in the south of Castro was Nuestra Senera de Gracia de Necron, which was originally built in 1890. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We took a ferry to the island of Quinchao. Acho is a busy little port. The highlight is the church, which was built in 1730. It contains beautiful Baroque imagery. We enjoyed a snack at a café, accompanied by traditional music.

We crossed the channel back to Dalcahue, to visit the handicraft market. Back in Castro, we visited its church, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the most colourful churches of the archipelago.

We toured the rainforest of Patagonia in Puerto Chacabuco, Chile, on February 23rd, 2025. We visited Aiken del Sur Private Park, a 250-hectare nature reserve. We hiked the river trail, where I learned about the Arrayan tree, which can live to be 200 years old. It has red peeling bark, which is a natural defense against bark beetles, and plant diseases. I also learned about the native bamboo, which is a short-lived hardwood. The ivy, which is an introduced species, is choking out the Chilean Fire Bush Notros tree, one of the species that can compete with the invasive pine trees. The Old Man’s Beard Moss is an indicator species which only grows where the air and water are pure. I saw native Fuchsia plants, and their giant Rhubarb (Gunnera), which has huge flowering structures. Legends surround the Maqui shrubbery which colonize burnt and exploited soils. We saw a Wet Wet bird, which is named for its call. It digs for worms and grubs and is curious about visitors.

Our tour ended at Old Man’s Beard Waterfall. The oldest trees in Aiken del Sur Park can be found in this area. There is a particular fern that only grows here, Lophosoria quadripinnata (Ampe).

On February 25^th, 2025, we cruised the Chilean Fjords. We saw the Brujo Glacier, and the Amelia Glacier, on the Sarmiento channel

On February 26^th, 2025, we arrived at our final port in Chile, Punta Arenas. We visited the Plaza de Armas, the central square featuring a statue of Magellan, street vendors, and the historic Sara Braun house. We saw the Cathedral de Punta Arenas. We visited the roosts of the Giant Andean Condors at Estancia Teresa, in Patagonia, Chile. The Andean Condor is the heaviest flying bird of the Americas. It stands 4.5 feet tall. It weighs 25-33 pounds. It has a wingspan of 11 feet. Each mated pair produces one chick every three years. They become adults at six years old. They live up to the age of 50.

Condors eat dead sheep, cows, guanacos, and carcasses from puma kills. The roost cliff is a condor social club; there are no nests here. Condor nests are more isolated, and they are miles apart. Twenty-five to 110 condors sleep in the roosts on most nights.

On February 27^th, 2025, we cruised Glacier Alley, on our way to The End of the World! We saw the Italian, German, and Dutch glaciers.

We arrived in Ushuaia, Argentina, on February 27^th,2025, where we went on a King Crab experience tour in the Beagle Channel. We stopped at Laguna Victoria for a snack on the way to Puerto Almanza, Argentina’s southern most fishing port, for a gourmet meal at Onas Restaurant.

I have good news from Erin Larson, Production Manager of Atmosphere Press! My author interview article has been published, and is now live at https://atmospherepress.com/interview-with-cynthia-cook/ . That’s all for this week; Keep calm, and keep reading!

March 7^th, 2025

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

Blog # 32

On February 27^th, 2025, we cruised Glacier Alley, on our way to The End of the World! We saw the Italian, German, and Dutch glaciers.

We arrived in Ushuaia, Argentina, on February 27^th, 2025, where we went on a King Crab experience tour in the Beagle Channel. We stopped at Laguna Victoria for a snack on the way to Puerto Almanza, Argentina’s southernmost fishing port, for a gourmet meal at Onas Restaurant.

We cruised through Antarctica on March 1^st and 2^nd, and we saw Palmer Station, Gentoo Penguins, Sei and Humpback Whales, Tabular, Pinnacle, Wedge and Dry-docked Icebergs. We cruised the Lemaire channel.

On March 3^rd, 2025, we saw a pod of Orcas in the Neumyaer Channel. We passed by Yelcho Base, Chile, which is named after the ship that rescued Shackleton. We also cruised by Port Lockroy, a former base which was established in 1944, by the United Kingdom. We saw three Humpback Whales, while we were sailing towards Gonzales Vidala Station. Two research scientists worked at Waterboat Point for a year in 1921. There is a large Gentoo penguin colony here.

We cruised Paradise Bay, where we saw two Weddell seals. Then we sailed on Gerlache Strait.

On March 5^th, 2025, we cruised by Elephant Island, the desolate refuge of the British explorer Ernest Shackleton and his crew in 1916, following the loss of their ship Endurance in the pack ice of the Weddell Sea. The crew of 28 reached Cape Valentine on Elephant Island after months spent drifting on ice floes, and small lifeboats. They took shelter at Point Wild.

Realizing that there was no chance of passive rescue, Shackleton sailed to South Georgia Island, where there were several whaling stations. The journey took 16 days. His second-in-command, Frank Wild, was instructed to depart with the remaining crew for Deception Island, if Shackleton didn’t return to rescue them by the beginning of summer. On August 30^th, 1916, the tug Yelcho, from Punta Arenas, Chile, with Shackleton onboard, and commanded by Luis Pardo, arrived and rescued the men. We saw Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins, Fin and Minke Whales near Walker Point, on the southwest side of the entrance to Gurkovska Cove, southwest of Cape Valentine, near the eastern end of Elephant Island in the Southern Shetland Islands of Antarctica. Walker Point was probably named for Captain John Walker to acknowledge his assistance in the cartography of Captain John Powell’s map of 1822.

I finished reading my first book in March; “The Girl Who Lived Twice”, a Lisbeth Salander novel, by David Lagercrantz, continuing Stieg Larsson’s Millennium series. That’s all for this week; keep calm and keep reading!

March 14^th, 2025

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

Blog # 33

On March 7^th, 2025, we were lucky to reach Port Stanley, in the Falkland Islands, for the second time! We visited Volunteer Point, an impressive peninsula to the north of East Falkland.

Named after the ship Volunteer, which visited the Islands in 1815, Volunteer point is part of Johnson’s Harbour Farms. Volunteer Beach is a two-mile-long white sand beach, bordered by high grassy banks leading to rolling green hills. We saw the breeding habitats of Gentoo, and king Penguins. We saw sea cabbage growing along the beach.

On March 9^th, 2025, we stopped at Puerto Madryn, Argentina. We had planned to go on a tour in a rigid inflatable boat to sea sealions and dolphins, but it was canceled due to weather. We had been here before, so we decided to stay onboard to workout, relax, and dine at Canaletto tonight.

On March 12^th, 2025, we arrived in Montevideo, Uruguay. We stopped at Independence Square, which features a statue of General Artigas. We also saw the legislative palace. We drove 25 miles north to one of Uruguay’s leading vineyards, the Juanico Winery. The 300-acre vineyard has a system based on organic agricultural principles. The cultivated varieties include Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Marselan, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir. The specialty is the Tannat varietal, which has won several prizes in Europe.

Uruguay is well known for grilled meat. Our lunch was accompanied by a tango dance show.

On March 13^th, 2025, we arrived in Buenos Aires, Argentina. We went to the Wine Window, Argentina, where we tasted Malbec and Torrentes wines, produced in Argentina. These premium wines were specially paired with five perfectly matched foods.

That’s all for this week! Keep calm, and keep reading.

March 21, 2025

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

Blog #34

On March 14^th, 2025, we did a Hop-On-Hop-Off tour of Buenos Aries. We saw the Palacio San Martin, a 1912 art nouveau mansion, designed by Alejandro Christophersen. We visited Florida Street, a famous pedestrian street which is known for high end retail stores. We saw Puerto Madero, a modern upscale waterfront district. We visited the Obelisco, which was built in 1936 to commemorate the foundation of Bueno Aries. We saw Palermo, which is a diverse neighbourhood with elegant architecture. We visited Casa Rosada, the executive mansion and presidential office which is the historic site of political speeches about Argentina’s turbulent political history. We saw San Telmo, a vibrant district where tango dancers fill Plaza Dorrego. La Boca is the neighbourhood which is known for its colourful buildings and is considered to be the birthplace of tango.

On March 16^th, 2025, we arrived in Punta del Este, Uruguay. We visited the Ralli Museum. It exhibits works by European 15^th through 18^th century artists, and post impressionism collections. The sculptures by major artists include Amaya, Botero, Dali, Juarez, Robinson, and Volti. We stopped at Casa Pueblo, the home of renowned artist Carlos Paez Vilaro. This dazzling white complex, built in the style of Moroccan architecture, is located on a rocky bluff overlooking the ocean. Vilaro built it in 1958.

We enjoyed a Uruguayan lunch at Narbona Restaurant, where we were served carne asada, accompanied by salad. We enjoyed Dulche de Leche for dessert.

On March 18^th, 2025, we arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. We visited the Selaron Steps, which were created by the Chilean painter and sculptor, Jorge Selaron. He dedicated more than 20 years of his life to creating this masterpiece from tiles which were donated from all over the world.

We went to a juice bar in Copacabana, Bibi, where we tasted Acai berry gratina, and Nutella flavoured tapioca stuffed pancakes. Then we drove by some of Rio’s iconic beaches; Leblon, Ipanema, and Copacabana. We enjoyed the classic cocktail the Caipirinha, which is made from sugarcane liquor, macerated limes, and sugar, at Cabanna, in Copacabana, with cheese empanadas.

We visited Flamengo Park, where we tried the local soda, Guarana, paired with empanadas, cheese bread, fried Cassava, and yucca flour polenta, at Assador restaurant, which overlooks Sugarloaf Mountain, and Corcovado.

On March 19^th, 2025, we took a 4X4 vehicle to tour Tijuca Forest, which is home to hundreds of species of plants and wildlife that are only found here. We saw giant Blue Morpho butterflies, False Hibiscus, a carnivorous Carrion plant, a Jackfruit tree, and an Imperial Palm tree, which can live to be 100 years old.

We stopped at the Chinese pagoda, which is unique because the dragons face the sea, instead of the sky, which is their usual orientation. There was a beautiful view of Rio’s harbour, including Sugarloaf Mountain.

On March 20^th, 2025, we arrived in Armacao dos Buzios, Brazil, which was a new port to us. We did a coach tour past Ossos and Joao Fernandes beaches. We stopped at Criminal Point, Point Lagoon, and Ferradura Beach. We strolled along the Rua das Pedras, where we saw the bronze statue of Brigitte Bardot, who loved to vacation in Buzios, as did Marylin Monroe.

That’s all for this week; keep calm and keep reading!

March 28, 2025

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

Blog #35

On March 22^nd, 2025, we visited Salvador da Bahia, Brazil. We walked around the Mercado Modelo, which was established in 1912. This market offers diverse Bahian crafts.

On March 23^rd, 2025, we visited a port that was new to us, Maceio, Brazil. We took a tour of the highlights of Maceio. From the port of Jaragua, we went to the Anta Lagoon, and the beaches of Pajucara, Ponta Verde, and Jatiuca. We stopped at Nosse Senhora dos Prazeres Cathedral. This historic church was founded in 1854. It blends architectural styles, reflecting decades of renovations and diverse cultural influences.

We stopped at the lookout station on Mirante de Sao Goncalo Hill. The highest point of Maceio features views of the residential districts of Prado and Trapiche de Barra, and Rei Pele Soccer Stadium.

Our last stop on the tour was the Pontal da Barra Handicraft Center. We wandered through many stalls which sold items made of straw, wood, ceramics, and lace.

On March 24^th, 2025, we visited Recife, Brazil. We saw the colonial city of Olinda, which was founded by the Portuguese in 1537. Olinda became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1982. Zoning rules now restrict redevelopment, preserving the remaining pastel coloured stucco buildings, colonial lattices, and heavy, intricately carved doors.

We visited the Church of our Lady of Mercy, which is a magnificent example of Baroque art. The Se’ Cathedral provided a beautiful view of Olinda and Recife.

We visited the Convento Sao Francisco, which is a UNESCO Heritage site. It features Portuguese azujelo tiles, intricate woodcarvings, and 18^th century paintings. The highlight was the Golden Chapel, which was built between 1626 and 1724.

The final stop on our tour was the Casa de Cultura, a former prison which has been converted into a handicraft market.

On March 26^th, 2025, we visited Fortaleza, Brazil. We had been to this port before, so we just photographed the Metropolitan Cathedral, which is a towering Gothic-Romanesque structure completed in 1978, featuring twin spires, detailed stained-glass windows and a crypt.

We looked around the Mercado Central, which is a three-story market with over 500 stalls selling lace, leather, cashew nuts, regional spices, wooden crafts, and Fortaleza souvenirs.

I finished my second book in March, Fairy Tale, by Stephen King. This novel is about a seventeen-year-old boy who inherits the keys to a parallel world where good and evil are at war, and the stakes could not be higher, for that world or ours.

That’s all for this week; keep calm and keep reading!

April 4^th, 2025

What Really Happened to the Hat and the Gloves

Blog # 36

On March 30^th, 2025, we visited our first port on the Amazon River; Santarem, Brazil. Santarem has a history that dates back to 1661. We stopped at the Mercado 2000, which is a bustling market where vendors sell freshly caught fish, tropical fruits and regional goods.

We visited the Catedral Metropolitana Nossa Senhora de Conceicao, which is the oldest building in Santarem. This striking blue church, which was built in 1761, stands on the site of Santarem’s first structure, a 1661 palm-frond chapel.

We stopped at the Joao Fona Museum, which features a fine collection of ancient Tapajos ceramics. There are also various 19^th century artifacts and publications on display.

We observed the Meeting of the Waters, where the muddy Amazon River and the blue waters of the Rio Tapajos flow side by side for many miles before their distinctive colours eventually blend. This phenomenon is due to specific gravities, and temperature differences between the two rivers.

We visited an old manioc flour factory, where we learned how it is produced from tree roots. We saw rubber trees; one of them was 200 years old. We learned how latex was extracted from the tree sap, by a series of diagonal cuts on the tree bark, so as not to ring the bark with horizontal cuts, which would kill the tree by cutting of its circulation.

On March 31^st, 2025, we visited a port which was new to us, Boca da Valeria, Brazil. We saw a pink river dolphin from our tender boat. Boca da Valeria is home to 119 people known as caboclos, who are the descendants of Indigenous and Portuguese ancestors. Most residents earn income from fishing or selling handmade crafts. If children offer you the opportunity to pose for a picture holding a baby sloth, please don’t accept it. The young animal has been taken from its mother, and she may have been killed. Instead, take a boat ride along the tributaries to see the Mangroves and other flora and fauna, including the giant flowering lily pads. Before we returned to our cruise ship we photographed the Boca da Valeria church, which is the spiritual center for the community.

On April 1^st, 2025, we visited Manaus, Brazil. Our first stop was the Palacio Rio Negro, which was the state capital, and governor’s residence. It now serves as a cultural center with Beaux-Arts furnishings and exhibitions.

We visited the lavish pink and white Opera House, which is known as the Teatro Amazonas. It was built in 1896. The auditorium has perfect acoustics. Performances here range from single guitar concerts to ballet companies and philharmonic orchestras. The Teatro is a homage to the affluence of the booming rubber industry of 1896, in Manaus.

We stopped at the Bosque da Ciencia, which is an open-air museum, and Amazonian Research Station. The Amazon River Manatee’s species was rescued from extinction here. We saw taxonomy arrays of exotic butterflies, moths, and beetles. The worlds largest and smallest leaves are both found in the Amazon. Otters, electric eels, alligators, orchids and bromeliads are also housed here.

At the end of our tour, we visited the Military Zoo, where wildlife and Amazonian fauna are housed. We saw Tapirs, Jaguars, Black Panthers, Harpy Eagles, Scarlet and Blue Macaws, Toucans, Anacondas, Boa Constrictors, Spider Monkeys, Capuchin Monkeys, Woolly Monkeys and Amazonian fish.

On April 2^nd, 2025, our second day in Manaus, we did a speedboat tour on the Rio Negro, to Lake Acajatuba. We swam with the famous pink dolphins. One hundred of them died last year, because of dangerously low water levels on the Rio Negro. The dolphins have become accustomed to human encounters, because they are hand fed pieces of fish. We were asked not to touch them on their heads.

We visited a community of only 69 people on Lake Acajatuba, Sao Thome. We shopped for local handicrafts, which included weaving. We saw the nests of Weaver birds. On our way back to the Volendam we saw the Rio Negro Bridge, which was completed in 2011. This is a suspension bridge in the architectural style of Canada’s Port Mann Bridge.

On April 3^rd ,2025, we saw a port that was new to us, Parintins, Brazil. We went to a Boi Bumba show, which is one of the greatest folk festivals in Brazil. The exuberant staging and costumes included pink dolphins, toucans, and Brahma bulls. The performers wore colourful feathered headdresses. The song and dance show told the story of the dispute between two families, the Cids and the Monteverdes. Sixty dancers and musicians performed at the Convention Centre.

I have started work on what will hopefully become my first science fiction novel, “The Hilltop Hotel”. I was inspired by the writing of Stephen King, in You Like It Darker.

That’s all for this week; keep calm and keep reading!

Hayla Alawi	10:29 AM (34 minutes ago)
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