Author Archives: Ana McCracken

New Mexico Nature Photo Essay

Nature greets me with majesty and ferocity on my departure from New Mexico. A short series of images set the stage for my day. Continue reading

Posted in Blogs, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Fun, and Hats, at the 2018 Cardinal & Gold Gala

The 2018 Iowa State Alumni Association fundraiser raises money for scholarships and more. Great fun was had by all, but sadly, no awards for “Best Hat” were given. Continue reading

Posted in News Events | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Fairfield Thanksgiving Loop Photo Essay

Avy and I walked the Fairfield Loop Trail, known as Fairfield’s “emerald necklace,” after Thanksgiving with Ed’s family. I snapped a bunch of wintery, atmospheric photos that I’ve crafted into this photo essay. Continue reading

Posted in Blogs, Fairfield Thanksgiving Loop, Photo Essays | Leave a comment

Skunk River Photo Essay

Another winter walk reveals the angles and textures of a broken down old wood bridge as Avy and I stroll along the Skunk River Trail. Continue reading

Posted in Blogs, Uncategorized | 3 Comments

Lone Hiker, Blessed Day Photo Essay

On another winter walk in the forest, Avy and I meet a lone hiker whose greeting beautifully captures the day. Continue reading

Posted in Blogs, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Ames Woods Photo Essay

Avy and I go for a chilly fall walk in the Ames Woods. Avy wants to go down and explore the creek that runs under the bridge, while I would rather take photos of the subtle beauty all around us. Continue reading

Posted in Blogs, Uncategorized | 2 Comments

Elizabeth Berg Said Yes!

Elizabeth Berg said yes to my invitation for her to speak next year at the Peninsula Volunteers Annual Authors Salon on Sunday, March 25th, 2018. Continue reading

Posted in News Events | Leave a comment

Ana Goes (Back) to School

On my way to being an over-achieving, “A” student this time around. First day of my non-degree creative non-fiction class. First assignment…Done. If I can pass two sections of the GREs, I’ll apply for the degree program in January.

Posted in News Events | Leave a comment

Sonoma Writer’s Camp Recap

The Sonoma County Writer’s Camp with Ellen Sussman & Elizabeth Stark, was an amazing experience. We wrote, ate, hiked, laughed and bunked together for 5 days, breaking boundaries and taking risks with our writing. Continue reading

Posted in News Events | Leave a comment

Why I Drove to Minneapolis to see Author Dani Shapiro

People ask me, “why Iowa,” when they learn that Ed, Avy and I left San Francisco earlier this year. Their faces scrunch and I smile. Why not? People are friendly here. Friends offer to pick up your paper when your … Continue reading

Posted in Authorly Advice | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment