“A Day in the Life” with Calgary Writer Barb Howard

April 26, 2023 Demian Vernieri Arts, Literature

Barb Howard settles in to write with a cup of highly caffeinated tea in one hand and a Labrador Retriever draped across her feet. As the day wears on, the teapot dwindles, the Labrador becomes restless, and Barb finds herself inevitably drawn to the outdoors. So, a fresh pot of tea is brewed and the Labrador is outfitted in his harness so Barb can set out to conquer the hiking trails of Kananaskis Country. If she’s accompanied by her sons these adventures generally involve at least one ill-advised “shortcut”. Presumably, these detours still happen when it is just her and the Labrador, but Barb keeps this information to herself.

In many ways, this wandering journey through the Albertan foothills is emblematic of the stories Barb tells and her process for writing them. In good writing, as in good hiking, the most interesting story can often be found by peering through the trees and thinking “Sure the trail here might be easy, but I wonder what we could see if we just scramble up that rock face.” This process has led Barb to publish two novels, two novellas, and a short story collection, being honoured with an Exporting Alberta Award and the Howard O’Hagan Award for Short Story. There’s no one else I would rather scramble up a rock face with, literally or metaphorically.

-Written by Stuart Gardner, Barb’s son

Barb Howard
I’m on a yogurt-making kick. Opening one of these adorable little jars every morning makes me feel (briefly) that all is right in the world.
Barb Howard
My writing desk is 100+ years old and originally belonged to my Grandma. She was a powerhouse.
Once or twice a year, for the past 15 years, my sons send me a Momma Mix – an eclectic playlist that I listen to while I write, and whenever I am missing them since they don’t live in Calgary.
When I’m at my desk, I’m surrounded by inspiring art created by friends. This all-seeing “ulu-eye” print was given to me by Calgary artist and gallery owner Sophia Lebessis (Transformation Fine Art.)
I’m part of the group of Alberta artists and writers who contributed to the upcoming portfolio and book Reimaging Fire: The Future of Energy. This image is a section of the paradigm-busting digital quilt created by Calgary artist Nadia Perna. It pairs beautifully with my short story for the project.
I write single pieces, and also books. My most recent book is Happy Sands (University of Calgary Press, 2021) which is about a family beach vacation, booze, and nostalgia.
Barb Howard
top] I’ve always been an outdoors nut. Hiking, cycling, paddling – all of it. I don’t try to think about writing when I am outside but often return home with a new idea or a story problem solved. I post way too many photos of my excursions with my dog. This is one of them.
Barb Howard
I’m a night owl. Most nights I play the piano, late. Sometimes very late. My long-suffering family has never complained, at least not to me.

***

Which ’hood are you in?

I live in southwest Calgary with my husband Mike and my dog Earl.

What do you do?

I’m a writer. And I sit on the board of directors for a few organizations such as Calgary Arts Development and Calgary Arts Foundation. Also, I’m an editor, hiker, cyclist, late-night piano player and cheese eater.

What are you currently working on?

I’m working on a short story collection. I think it is mostly done, but I have a history of thinking that too soon!

Where can we find your work?

You can find my books at the library or at bookstores or online. My single short stories can generally be found, with difficulty, in obscure literary magazines across Canada. I have a few links to published shorter pieces on my website.

 

 

About Demian Vernieri 543 Articles
Demian is an Argentinian retired musician, avid gamer and editor for the Montréal Guardian, Toronto Guardian, Calgary Guardian and Vancouver Guardian websites.
Instagram

Related Articles