Glimpses: Behind the Scenes
Step behind the scenes of Grit & Grace and follow the restoration of Elixir through this chronological collection of stories. From boatyard challenges and structural repairs to friendships, family life, and unexpected adventures in Kauai, each chapter offers a glimpse into the journey that inspired the memoir.
What began with a visit to a boatyard in Kauai became a life-changing adventure. Discover the first chapter in the restoration of Elixir and the dream that launched an extraordinary journey.
Arriving in Kauai in 1988, Deborah Rudell comes face to face with Elixir for the first time. What seemed like an overwhelming restoration project would become a journey of perseverance, transformation, and possibility.
As years of wear and neglect come into view, the true condition of Elixir begins to emerge. This chapter explores the realities of restoring a classic wooden schooner.
With portions of the vessel stripped away, a clearer picture of the restoration challenge emerges. What remains will determine the path forward.
Breaking through concrete ballast deep within the hull proves to be one of the most physically demanding stages of Elixir's restoration.
Life beyond the boatyard offered its own adventures. Discover the people, places, and experiences that shaped this chapter of the journey.
Amid the hard work of restoration, moments of beauty and reflection could still be found along Kauai's rugged coastline.
Restoring a wooden schooner requires more than craftsmanship. Planning, logistics, and problem-solving play a vital role in every stage of the project.
As restoration progresses, attention turns to sails and equipment. Each piece plays a role in bringing Elixir back to life.
A major structural challenge tests both determination and skill as another important piece of Elixir's restoration falls into place.
The boatyard became an unexpected classroom where practical skills, perseverance, and life lessons were learned every day.
A holiday celebration during the restoration years offers a glimpse into daily life, friendship, and finding home in unexpected places.
An ambitious undertaking pushes creativity and determination to new levels as the restoration team tackles a seemingly impossible task.
The beauty of Kauai provides moments of perspective and renewal amid the challenges of restoring Elixir.
Restoration is never accomplished alone. This chapter celebrates the friendships and connections formed along the way.
As restoration advances, structural elements begin to take shape, bringing new life and strength to the vessel.
Every component matters in a restoration project. Mast bands become another step toward preparing Elixir for the sea.
Even the smallest vessels play an important part in life on the water. This chapter explores the role of the dinghy in the restoration journey.
Restoring the ports helps preserve both the beauty and functionality of the vessel as progress continues.
Work on the stern highlights the craftsmanship, attention to detail, and persistence required throughout the restoration process.
Not every memorable moment involved tools and repairs. Wildlife brought unexpected joy and perspective to life in the boatyard.
The Blog
Beyond boatbuilding, this is where I share my journey as an author—writing adventures, creative inspirations, and the moments that shape my stories. From updates on my latest book, Grit & Grace, to reflections on life and the writing process, you’re invited to follow along.
Deborah Rudell shares highlights from the San Diego Writers Festival and the LA Times Festival of Books, reflecting on author experiences, reader connections, and the creative energy of literary events.
This month’s Christmas chaos came not from Santa, but from my battle-worn cat Lucky, whose abscess, cone, and dramatic antics turned my home into a clinic-meets-comedy show. Between cleaning splattered walls, supervising his every wobble, and pondering whether Santa himself has a cat, I eventually found relief in Lucky’s healing ear and his triumphant return to rooftop freedom.
What began as a weekend threatened by storms turned into a pair of unexpectedly joyful author events, where ease, connection, and genuine conversation replaced the old pre-launch nerves. From a packed memoir showcase to a rain-soaked but lively book fair, I felt myself settling fully into my role as an author, grateful for the people I met, the stories shared, and the quiet confidence that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.
Help me share the heart of Grit & Grace with more readers! From leaving an Amazon review to adding the book on Goodreads or sharing links on social media, every small action helps spread its message of hope and perseverance.
Saturday’s book signing at Indigo Granville in British Columbia was unforgettable. The busy street outside and the hum of conversations inside set the scene as I set up my table of Grit & Grace beneath the bold red letters, “The World Needs More Canada.” What began with nerves quickly turned into heartfelt conversations with readers about life, resilience, and adventure.
With my audiobook finally finished and ninety books packed into my little car, I hit the road for a two-month book tour and family visit in British Columbia. In this post, I share the highlights of my 1,500-mile solo drive—from winding through redwoods and losing my sunglasses, to reconnecting with friends, promoting Grit & Grace, and arriving at the lakeside cottage that’s been my summer haven for decades. Here's to a new season of stories, silence, and soul rest.
I turned a spare bedroom into a recording studio, battled laryngitis, learned the ins and outs of audio editing, and even had a few feline interruptions—but I finally did it! After months of work, Grit & Grace is now available as an audiobook. In this post, I share the ups, downs, and surprises along the way to bringing my story to life in a whole new format.
A quick recap of my time at the LA Times Festival of Books—an inspiring weekend of stories, authors, and community. Plus, a few exciting updates and news from behind the scenes!
A weekend of sunshine, stories, and connection! I volunteered and participated in the 2025 San Diego Writers Festival in Coronado, sharing behind-the-scenes moments, inspiring author panels, and my own experience speaking on a memoirist panel. The next day, I signed books at the charming Bay Books, meeting readers and celebrating community. Dive into this joyful recap of literary celebration!
Spring Arts Preview 2025: San Diego gave author Deborah Rudell the strength to make it through
The Normal Heights-based college professor has published a riveting memoir on trauma and shipbuilding
The countdown is over—my book launch is here! Join me as I share the behind-the-scenes journey of planning my first book launch, from navigating holiday scheduling chaos to last-minute venue changes.
Explore the journey behind Deborah Rudell's upcoming book, Grit & Grace. Learn how to win a free copy, get early access, and join the excitement on Goodreads!
Discover Deborah Rudell's inspiring writing journey in her latest interview with SDVoyager Magazine. Explore her reflections on storytelling, growth, and the publishing process. Read more!
Grit & Grace has been reviewed by Kirkus and it has an Accolade that says "Get it." Only 25% of their reviews receive this accolade. Happy first time author moment!
“Is this a photo journal? Or is there a story to tell here?” I was at Mimi’s Café with Helen Chang, a writing coach. She was looking at me with amused intensity. The question created internal conflict because I was sure I was supposed to do a photo journal of The Elixir Project but … there really was quite a story behind all the photos.
One of my fears about publishing a book, and particularly a memoir is having to speak to people about myself and my story. While teaching at the college, I can deliver directions and instructions to students without hesitation, but standing up and impromptu speaking has been a scary thing for me, and a lot of other people too, if the stats are accurate!
There is a moment in many lives, a crossroads, where the path of a life is radically altered. I would like to share one such moment with you …. a moment that shaped the last forty years of my life. And was why I began writing a book.
