Sue Fagalde Lick Livres

The narrative explores the profound emotional landscape of living with a partner affected by Alzheimer's disease. Sue Fagalde Lick shares her personal journey alongside her husband Fred, transitioning from their Silicon Valley careers to life on the Oregon Coast. Through poignant poetry that balances humor and heartbreak, she reflects on the challenges and joys of their 25-year marriage. This work serves as both a heartfelt guide for those facing similar experiences and a broader commentary on love, aging, and commitment.

The experiences of over 60 Portuguese immigrants and their descendants highlight the challenges of adapting to life in a new country while maintaining cultural identity. The book delves into various aspects such as immigration, marriage, work, religion, and the arts, illustrating the rich tapestry of Portuguese American life. It also explores the deep connections between California and Portugal, offering personal narratives that reflect both struggles and triumphs in navigating dual identities.

A recently widowed woman embarks on a transformative journey from Missoula to Newport, seeking a fresh start. Embracing a new identity, she adopts a fit lifestyle, a striking red hairstyle, and a bold attitude. Leaving behind her past as a conventional housewife and aspiring musician, she is determined to redefine herself and pursue her dreams. With her belongings in storage and a new age to claim, she is ready to face the challenges of her new life and assert her independence.

Exploring the emotional journey of a woman who sacrifices her dream of motherhood for love, the narrative delves into her relationships with two husbands—one who cheats and another who has children from a previous marriage. Despite her deep desire to be a mother, she navigates the complexities of love, sacrifice, and the impact of her choices on her identity and happiness. The story poignantly examines the consequences of becoming childless through marriage and the profound effects it has on her life.

Chelsea Faust, a determined newspaper reporter with a passion for photography and running, finds herself drawn to Simao Freitas, a recent immigrant from Portugal, during an assignment in Little Portugal. Their immediate attraction is overshadowed by Simao's struggles with past trauma and Chelsea's relentless pursuit of a dangerous news story. As they navigate their personal challenges, the potential for a future together hangs in the balance, complicating both their lives.

Exploring the complexities of faith and personal loss, the narrative follows a church pianist grappling with her thoughts during services. As she navigates her role amidst the backdrop of grief from losing her husband to Alzheimer's, she reflects on the challenges of leading a choir, the dynamics of church music, and the underrepresented voices of women in a male-dominated environment. Through a blend of humor and sincerity, the poems reveal the intricate balance between devotion and everyday distractions in the life of a church minister.

Exploring themes of loss and resilience, the book presents a widow's journey alongside her loyal dog in a coastal setting. Through vivid imagery and poignant narratives, the author reflects on memories of her late husband and the solace found in nature and companionship. The juxtaposition of vulnerability and bravery highlights the beauty of aging and the enduring connection to life. This collection of poetry is a heartfelt tribute to the human experience, celebrating moments of warmth and the strength found in simple pleasures.

When Sue Lick’s husband’s charming forgetfulness worsens into dementia, she trades her life of writing, music, and travel with the love of her life for years of caregiving, guilt, and impossible decisions. And yet the love remains.