Cooking & Booking

Here’s the thing – I’m bad at cooking.  So when I find something I can make, I need to make sure I don’t forget how.  Unfortunately, awhile back I forgot something that I tried once that turned out rather successful.  Since then, I’ve been trying to list all of the recipes/meals I can make.  While I was at it, I figured that there are more than likely a lot of other guys out there who have no idea how to cook for themselves.  If I can do it, then anyone can. 

Cinnamon rolls – Now don’t those look absolutely scrumptious?

So I gathered my recipes and decided to compile them into a collection (a cookbook of sorts) that I will offer through my site once I have a finished product.  So if you know anyone who is graduating from school, about to move out on their own, fears burning the house down every time they turn on the stove, or are just a man in general, then keep them in mind with this rather practical gift idea.  Once this project has been completed, you’ll notice a new page at the top of my site where you can purchase a copy…or two, or three.  So start making your list now!  Be advised that this will not be anything complicated and will only have a handful of recipes that a guy can rely on – short and sweet.

While you’re here, I’ll even let you help me name the project!  Place your vote below and help me decide on a title.

Thank you, that is all.

Here’s a novel idea (Wink, wink)

As I’m sure some of you are aware, I’ve always had the thought that it would be cool to write a book.  Yeah, when I was a kid I wanted to write a book – forget being an astronaut/fireman/policeman/etc.  Call me a geek, that’s fine.  I can admit it. 

Here’s the problem – I have absolutely no idea what to do or how to do it.  I’ve never even taken a creative writing course.  I created this blog to practice writing.  I started a second blog for my short stories, so I could develop my style a little.  This was all my first couple baby steps to get started.  However, I don’t really have any clue where to go from here.

I breezed through my first few short stories, and have plot outlines for several more.  One idea in particular has really been “plaguing” me lately. (Pardon the pun…it’ll make more sense in a couple of minutes.)  The problem with it though, is that it seems to have a lot more potential than to just end up as a short story.  The more I think about it, the more ideas pop into my head and the more I realize that this could be the start of my first novel.  And what better topic for me to write about than zombies?!  (I told you that horrible pun was related.)

I have since met with a couple of published authors.  They have been willing to give me their time, knowledge, and ears to help me figure out where I go from here.  I’ve got some very encouraging feedback, and actually found out that part of my process is pretty standard and even has a name!  Who’da thunk it??  This whole idea is starting to seem at least somewhat do-able.

So here I am stating my intentions to the world…I think I’m going to try to write a book!  It’s a very intimidating thought – the idea of a long-term project like this.  Knowing my lack of patience, short attention span, and very particular way of doing things, this is not going to be easy, but we’ll see what happens!  I’m sure I will post updates as things progress and maybe even post a sneak peek every once in a while so you all can see if I’m staying on track, and if it’s any good.  Who knows?  I sure don’t!

Thank you, that is all.

Help wanted

Calling all bookworms! 

As I have been pouring blood, sweat, and tears over my keyboard trying to crank out some light reading for the masses, I keep coming to the realization that I don’t really know what I’m doing.  Here’s where you could step in.  I’m looking for proofreaders, editors, and critics to provide HONEST feedback, tips, and suggestions in order for me to turn something out that people might find interesting/entertaining, and NOT be a complete waste of time.  If you enjoy reading and have any interest in short stories, mystery, or fiction, then please email me!

Thank you, that is all.

“Nothin’ But A Good Time” – Untaming a wild heart

Typically, I try to bear in mind what would entertain my readers (read: my family) and hold onto that thought as I type up the shenanigans of my life and deranged gray matter (read: brain).  Either that, or I just let my imagination run amok and type whatever makes me giggle like a little schoolgirl.  However, I can’t help but get the feeling that this post might get a little real on you, America, so bear with me while I wax philosophical.

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I recently started reading “Wild At Heart” by John Eldredge with a little encouragement from my wife…who just so happened to give the book to me as a Christmas gift.  So far, the book makes it very apparent that it is about following basic urges that we were created to have, and not letting go of those temptations because society slaps us on the wrist with a metal-edged ruler and firmly exclaims, “NO!” making us feel like miscreants. 

Football, spaceships, and the devil – Bringing down the ax on great television

As I perused through my dvd collection the other night looking for a new show to introduce my wife to, I couldn’t help but notice that several of my favorite shows have only lasted a handful of seasons.  Max.  And then I started thinking about the junk that airs weekly on a yearly basis.