June McCash is a southern gal living in Tennessee who paints life with a big brush and an even bigger imagination.
Her nine books range from historical novels to moving true stories like her most recent, A Titanic Love Story (Mercer University Press; $29). It traces the lives of Isidor and Ida Straus, a heroic couple who chose to perish in each other's arms when the RMS Titanic sank.
With all her writing, traveling and packing, we were lucky to catch up with June on a sunny afternoon in lovely Murfreesboro. She was happy to take a break and we were even happier to ask some questions...
June McCash
What are you doing these days?
I had a full career as a college professor, but have now left academe to become a full-time writer. I live in Murfreesboro, TN, near my son Bren. He's a college professor of history and museum studies. My older son Michael lives in Seattle and is a marine biologist.
I also have seven stepchildren and a collection of grandchildren. My biological offspring are all male--sons and grandsons. Because I recently lost my husband, I am about to downsize to a smaller house. I love to travel and have been to many countries throughout the world including virtually all of Europe, Turkey, Israel, Egypt, Jordan, Burundi, Argentina, Colombia, Mexico, Greece, Russia, Canada, of course, and still counting. I also love living in the South and spend as much of my time as I can on the coast of Georgia, specifically on Jekyll Island.
Where is your favorite vacation?
Jekyll Island, Georgia, without question. I've been going to Jekyll since 1983. The island is a state park, but there are some private residences there. It is by law 65% undeveloped, so there is much natural seashore and woodland, many bike paths, great beaches.
I've written three books about the island, two of them dealing with the famous Jekyll Island Club, which was founded in 1886 by a group of New York and Chicago millionaires, including people like J. P. Morgan, William Rockefeller, Joseph Pulitzer and Marshall Field. There is a sense of history there that is unique. I also love any time I can spend in France.
How do you spend your Saturdays?
Writing, enjoying nature, being with my family and going to soccer games. My 15-year-old grandson, Gabe Martin, plays on his middle school soccer team as well as for our town's select soccer team. He's amazing and wants to go to college one day on a soccer scholarship.
Favorite TV show?
Jeopardy. I'm not much of a TV watcher, though I watch lots of films.
I also watch the news every night. It's become a kind of ritual. I watch CNN (Wolfe Blitzer) and ABC (Dianne Sawyer and George Stephanopolos). I enjoy the latter's interviews and Sunday morning show particularly because I get to hear both sides of an issue without everyone talking at once and interrupting. When that happens, I change channels. I am really interested in diverse points of view and want to hear both sides and make up my own mind.
Where have you traveled recently?
I went to New York City in April, where I attended a memorial event at Macy's executive suites to honor Ida and Isidor Straus. Members of the Straus family also attended.
My husband and I had scheduled a trip to Cuba before he passed away. I'd still like to go someday, as well as to China and Australia.
Peanut butter: Crunchy or smooth?
Crunchy...in a peanut butter and banana sandwich!
Favorite soft drink
Diet Coke ... I prefer it straight out of the can; no straw needed.
Favorite adult beverage
A great dry white wine. I had a fabulous Chardonnay at a wedding celebration in Tampa recently.
Last movie you saw in a real movie theater
Hugo! I used to teach a course in French film and Hugo was replete with allusions to earlier French films by people like Renoir and Truffaut. I hope all my former students saw it.
Favorite meal
Lobster, baked potato, salad, and Key Lime pie
Yum! Where do you go for this?
There used to be a great restaurant in Tampa on Bayshore drive as I recall that specialized in that particular meal. Unfortunately, I haven't been there in years. For the most part, I prepare it at home.
Prepare your own Mexican quick fix with this Chipotle-inspired bowl. Carbs are moderated by filling the bowl with beans, extra veggies and chicken. No need for rice, since the beans count as carbs.
Tips:
If you love tomatoes, increase the quantity to 1/2 cup, but note that the carbohydrates will also increase.
If preparing this recipe for one person, cut all of the ingredients in half. Or simply prepare the full recipe up to the end of step 2 and store leftover chicken and vegetable-bean mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave on High for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through, and continue with step 3.
Health Bite: The iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc in black beans help to keep bones strong and healthy.
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