Discover Indie Books on Smashwords: A Reader’s Guide

Smashwords is an ideal online bookstore for indie book lovers, offering a wide variety of affordable ebooks, supporting independent authors, and featuring exclusive content. With easy navigation, users can discover diverse genres, track their reading, and access helpful features like reviews and bestseller lists. Explore Smashwords for unique literary treasures today!

Am I Mansplaining?

It's interesting how your perspective on a story you wrote can change. Recently I had a book accepted by All Things That Matter Press with the current title "No Mor Ugly Girls." I signed the contract and and now wait my turn for editing. ATTMP wants me to write the back cover blurb. Here is … Continue reading Am I Mansplaining?

Poems get to the Takeaway

Whenever I get a chance, I show young people a video of Oprah talking about gratitude.  She tells of starting each day with being thankful for something At least 3 things. She then tells us how you will end up better off focusing on the 2 dollars in your pocket instead of the money you … Continue reading Poems get to the Takeaway

A Book Contract Bob Newhart & Coincidence

There has to be a purpose to coincidences. I just experienced two and they are sort of connected. To be fair, not earth- shattering coincidences like I accidentally sold the gun that someone used to shoot me. But interesting (I hope). I got offered a contract for a novel from All That Matters Press. There … Continue reading A Book Contract Bob Newhart & Coincidence

Memorable Phrase: ‘Lean into Your Mistake’ – My Wedding Vows Story

Guys have trouble not saying stuff.  Oftentimes, it is not out of malice, but just out of having something too good to say and wanting the attention of saying it. I think I am pretty good at coming up with one-liners. My wife does not appreciate them and so I do try not to say … Continue reading Memorable Phrase: ‘Lean into Your Mistake’ – My Wedding Vows Story

The Similarities Between Visual Artists and Poets: Finding Joy and Gratitude in Creativity

I think there are similarities between visual artists and poets. And I understand if the artists are a little leary of the comparison. People can knock out some words that rhyme and call themselves a poet.Like this ditty, that I only read to prove the point. The time of now is fleeting My love is … Continue reading The Similarities Between Visual Artists and Poets: Finding Joy and Gratitude in Creativity

AI is good, but will it be good enough?

I tried Google's AI "Gemini." I asked it for a description of my book The Tao of Apathy. It actually nailed it. So it performed very well. I have used AI for things like giving me a draft of my bio or a book blurb. It has given me some interesting writing. I think AI … Continue reading AI is good, but will it be good enough?

The Power of Poetic Editing: Discovering New Perspectives Through Revision

I was at the open mic at the Sadoff Center. In Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. A person new to poetry read a letter she had written to herself as part of a recovery exercise. I asked her if she was surprised to find that she had positive and encouraging things to say.  She said yes. … Continue reading The Power of Poetic Editing: Discovering New Perspectives Through Revision

Auburn: Embracing Creativity Through Color Word Riff

The poem "Auburn" reflects a character's deep desire for an end to her suffering, paralleling the color's meaning in an exercise. The exercise evoked the character of Auburn, encapsulating her struggles. The creative process led to a unique concept, illustrating the disintegration of the character's life experiences. The workshop was an enjoyable experience.