2011.2.28 Writing: Fictional Places

Before I begin developing my characters for a story, I either draw or paint locations, take photographs of interesting places, and make maps of where my main characters live. I want to be able to see where they are while I write, and what the areas look like if I want to use location descriptions … Continue reading 2011.2.28 Writing: Fictional Places

2011.2.20 Writing: A Day in My Life

Words awoke me the other morning, repeating in my mind loudly, obtrusively. At 4:27, I snapped on my lamp and scribbled them down. Dark cold Deep blue Frigid from the death of violet I wondered, “What does it mean, frigid from the death of violet?” I tried to remember the dream that had birthed those … Continue reading 2011.2.20 Writing: A Day in My Life

My Early Years

I recall when Nike introduced their Just Do It slogan. It caught on like wildfire with my friends and me—most of us educators. Another saying from around that time was the Latin Carpe Diem, which translates to “Seize the Day” and was a reminder for us to live each day to the fullest and appreciate … Continue reading My Early Years

Criticism

Over the years I’ve learned that there are some commonalities between being an artist who paints landscapes and wildlife, and an author who self-publishes his books. First, obviously, is that I “self”-publish my art as well as my books. But more importantly, both my art and my books go into the world and are judged. … Continue reading Criticism

Finally, Book 1 Is Final

I recently corrected some printing problems, which means the absolute last version of Night of the Hell Hounds and Other Stories from the Ridgewood Chronicles is finished and at Amazon in both ebook and paperback formats. I haven’t written much about the cover, so I’ll do that now. I kept the cover simple to make … Continue reading Finally, Book 1 Is Final

Characters Who Stay

I was fourteen when I created my first book character: David Evans. His name came from the popular daytime gothic horror TV show in the US, Dark Shadows. His first name came from the boy character, David Collins, and his surname came from the waitress, Maggie Evans. Both characters had no siblings and lived with … Continue reading Characters Who Stay

Lucky 13

The WordPress team let me know yesterday that I’ve been blogging with them for 13 years. Blogging with WordPress actually began in January 2011 while I created my pages. I called my blog “Creating New Worlds” and published my ABOUT page and my first post on February 17th. My blog has gone through several changes … Continue reading Lucky 13