New Blog Site

I started this blog thanks to my good friend, Jan, a couple years ago.  Then she and some others encouraged me to keep writing.  The result turned into a bloody book!  Now I have a website with a blog component and that's where I have begun to share more book related things.  So, if you'd like to follow me around on a perhaps more regular basis visit www.cabin108book.com  Of course, I'd love you to order my book while you're there.  Since the book entered the world nearly three weeks ago I have yet to receive a negative review.  There's even a discussion group forming in the midwest.  I'll try to report in here sporadically, but time restraints have become a challenge.  Love you all, all the time.

Birth Announcement

Yesterday, my book became a reality as it came off the printing press.  The twenty month pregnancy finally ended.  Nearly a pound, the little guy measures nine inches long, six inches wide and is wrapped in a paperback cover.  Tomorrow, the load gets packed in a truck and will make the trip from Minnesota to me.  With an ETA of late next week or early the following one, I can begin to process the orders I already have and share a piece of my soul in each package.  So far they are destined for eight different US states and two other continents!  Of course, more orders are always welcome at my website.

I forecast a busy summer.  My collaborator, Uta Mooney arrives the last day of May for three months and we have already been selected to participate in two local art walks in Mill Creek and Edmonds, WA, as well as one in Portland, OR.  Uta will be exhibiting her Cabin 108  inspired paintings and I hope to sell some books along the way.  We are determined to promote each other successfully and spread the word as far and wide as possible.

Yep, new addition to my family and I'm already looking for other locations for the little guy.  Any word of mouth (positive preferred) would be greatly appreciated.

 

No More Almost

Delete 'nearly' too.  Yesterday, I completed my transformation and became a professional writer as I launched my website for my new book, Cabin 108, and began accepting orders.  So, I didn't get many but I got enough to prove that people will pay for my words.  More will follow as delivery of product nears by the first of June.   The proof copy sits on the table downstairs right now and will be in the printer's hands by Wednesday.  Two weeks to produce and a week transit time after that.  Presto!  I can begin fulfilling orders.

Would have told you two years ago, even one year ago, you were crazy to think I could write and publish a book.  But that's where I am.  So much going on lately.  My publishing coordinator told me in a meeting that my book is a thousand times better written than 50 Shades.  She's only been in the publishing business for 30+ years!  Settled on a company to warehouse and distribute my novel to bookstores and libraries.  Bought packaging supplies for direct sales, which I need desperately to make this venture viable.  Calculated postage for domestic and international sales.  Figured out how to put a "Buy Now" button on my website.

The learning will continue as I enter the world of literary marketing, promotion and publicity.  I'm already working on events to spread the word.  Perseverance, passion, determination and hard work got me this far.  So many chances to give up and walk away, but I refused.  Cabin 108 became an obsession that wouldn't let me quit.  

For now, I will leave you with the cover of my new book.  Based on a painting by Uta Mooney with beautiful model, Jacqueline Davey, and graphic design by Laura Zugzda.

Choose Love

Like many last week, I watched the Boston marathon tragedy unfold.  My book didn't seem all that important as I witnessed on television two apparent people full of hate with a disregard for human life, selfish, greedy and actively engaging in the promotion of bombs and arms intended to kill.  Sadly, they possess many of the same characteristics of our U.S. Congress.  To counter all that hate, I experienced a most beautiful 60th birthday party my family put together last weekend.  Wallowing in the love of friends and family, present and past, in the form of memories, cards and photos, I experienced a serious love hangover the day after.

But, I am back in business today and my book moves forward.  I approved the layout tonight and that leaves only the back cover graphics before going to the printer.  Right now my publishing team fights over which photo of me belongs in the book.  What a strange way to wrap up the journey.  I suspicion they'll compromise and I'll see what they agree to in the next day or two.

The next step will involve the printer creating a one-up proof copy.  I had to look that term up online and it means a real live book with "proof" printed on the last page.  Apparently those copies can become quite valuable when a book succeeds.  Of course, that's where my book is destined!  Once I approve the proof copy, production begins and I could have books in hand within seven or eight weeks.

My website nears inception where I will offer my book for sale through PayPal and credit cards.  These are crazy times with hate and love and trying to do the right thing.  Last August, my daughter got married and in my "father of the bride" speech, my message to the newlyweds was "choose love" and  my message remains the same today.             

Anxious To Begin My Next Book

Another whirlwind week blew by as I polished off the dedication, acknowledgement and all the peripheral things that go inside the book.  I also made a final decision for the front cover and it grows on me the more I look at it.  Unveiling may coincide with my official launch and offer to purchase my book, Cabin 108.  The back cover remains the only thing left before printing.  I expect to complete that this coming week

This week, I also set up a business banking account, received my business license and created a PayPal account.  Disappointed to learn that I apparently cannot link a PayPal account here which means I need a hosted website.  Perhaps the Universe intends to take care of that because I have a friend of a friend of a friend who may help me out of this dilemma.

The next fiasco happened when I started looking at my state retail tax collecting responsibilities.  Five years ago, the wisdom of our state legislature passed a regulation that tax should be collected based on the destination of the product, not it's origin.  Every city, county and jurisdiction determine their own tax rates which makes it ludicrous for a small business to calculate accurately when offering product for sale online.  Surely, some companies have developed software to accommodate this atrocity, but I can't afford such luxuries.  Too bad legislators don't live in the real world.  It leads me to ponder how I must report such sales to enable the government to distribute the taxes collected to the appropriate jurisdiction.

In the last year and a half I reinvented myself; I am a writer now who just wants to write.  With little interest in accounting and tax collection regulations, just leave me alone with my pen and paper.  Maybe I always was a writer, but never truly acknowledged it fully before.  Looking back at other things I've done, I see someone who went from dishwasher to restaurant manager, from flunky purchasing clerk to business owner.  Nothing stops me from doing the same in this field.  Maybe this book is my "dishwasher stage" in my writing career.  Maybe it'll surpass everyone's expectations, including my own.  We shall find out reasonably soon.                    

On The Verge

Goodness, I haven't visited blog land in a month.  So much happening so quickly.  Draft three turned into four and then five.  It all came down to one sentence and, as of yesterday, my manuscript is complete.  Over three years ago, I wrote a short story and it morphed into a novel that I shall publish and share with the world very soon.  I fear to predict a date because I walked blindly into editing and roadblocks cluttered my path.  But I put in the work and eradicated all my editor's red markings.

The last big decision pertains to the cover.  I thought I had made it, but my support people questioned my choice.  Although I own the final decision, I must listen with an open mind.  More ideas come forth to consider and I like the concepts.  Now I hope to incorporate them into an even better cover that will draw people to pick it up, read the magic blurb on the back and pay for it at the cash register.

Never dreamed I'd write a book, yet here I am on the verge of becoming a professional author.  The growth during the process astounds me.  My writing improved, my education furthered and today I am much more prepared to write another book and I intend to do just that.  Maybe a sequel, maybe something far from it.

Certainly, every new published writer envisions massive success and recognition.  In that regard, I conform, but not in any other.  The first chapter will shock many; those who hang around for more will fall in love, cry, and laugh.  Mediocrity no longer resides in my house.  Mark my words, this book has a destiny of its own and I am just coming along for the ride.      

Draft 3

It took a month to complete my third draft of Cabin 108 and, finally today, I sent it to my editor for review.  Changing one small thing can have a domino effect and require many other alterations.  Each rewrite has improved the story and the words.  My hope is I am now past the major hurdles and can get down to quick, easy fixes.  That will all be determined by what my editor comes back to me with in a week or two.  Hopefully, her workload is light right now.

I am more active on Facebook promoting my book.  Please like my page there for a chance to win a print of one of Uta Mooney's amazing paintings she did based on my book.  A random drawing will be held when I get 100 likes on my page.  It is currently at 70.  Spread the word; tell your friends.  I am going to have to sell a lot of books to make this labor of love pay off.  It's been a year and half effort and I am inching toward publication.

Uta is planning to return to the United States this summer and we already have plans to display her work and mine in Portland, OR, thanks to a friend.  Details will be forthcoming as they become finalized.

For now, I will leave you with the beginning lines of Cabin 108:  

Cabin door Number 108 stared at him as he sucked one more deep breath of the warm, summer breeze. His fingers curled into his sweaty palm, and he knocked meekly three times. The crescendo of silence nearly made his brain explode. The sound of an unlocking deadbolt broke the still, and he watched the doorknob turn. Had the moment he waited so long for finally arrived? Blood, hotter than lava, spewed from his heart as the door slowly opened. Leg tremors quaked the earth below. 

The Latest

Haven't had much time to share here lately.  Been busy with editing my third draft which should be complete next week.  Then that will be hurry up and wait until my editor responds to it.  Last weekend was crazy, not only didn't my daughter come for a visit, which always livens up the house, but Uta Mooney's solo art exhibition based on my book opened.  Check out a video she made before the doors opened here!  It was a huge success.

                       I didn't handle all the pressure well.  This is South Australia's first impression of me.

                There was nice article in an online newsletter about the exhibit  you can see here.

   Oh, and I can unveil the full portraiture Uta did of me now titled "The Writer".

Crazy Fun Times

As promised, my editor sent back my second draft a couple weeks ago and I have been working on it non-stop ever since.  I must say I thoroughly enjoy the challenges she throws at me.  Refitting the key pieces, the story is evolving, the characters developing, the ending no longer clear.

But, today is a big one for another reason.  My buddy, Uta Mooney, is setting up her exhibition of paintings based on my to-be-published book.

This is outside Gallery M in Adelaide, South Australia, where the exhibit will be displayed.  

It opens February 8th.

Not sure you can read the gallery newsletter, but the article on the bottom explains the concept and inspiration.

This is the back one of the canvases Uta will hang on the gallery walls of the imagination.

These are a few phrases from my book that are spread out on the gallery floor during set-up.

I am going to be the most famous, unpublished author in Australia before the week's over! 

Monday Monday

Everything that was grim last year at this time has subsided and been replaced by new hurdles.  So much growth, change and knowledge transpired in the past twelve months.  One thing I've done is look back at those I have known before they became success stories.  They didn't concern themselves with issues outside their idea which became dreams.  Instead, they marched forward pouring passion into it and going the extra two miles to make it become real.

That's where I am now.  My Cabin 108 dream has consumed me and won't let me go.  Other serious issues loom, yet they have taken a backseat until I finish this mission.  Makes me crazy waiting for my editor's response to my second draft.  So much rides on it and the the timing of making my book a reality.  Let there be no more massive rewrites and delays.  Show me the finish line.  

To stay busy, I started a Facebook page to shamelessly self-promote myself and my novel.  Pleasantly surprised by the response, you can check it out here.  I also needed to address home and auto insurance and decided to switch carriers.  Yesterday I met my new agent and pre-sold a copy of my unpublished book.

Yep, my idea, my dream, my passion and purpose is wrapped up in making Cabin 108 a success.  This afternoon, I got a note from my editor saying she expects to deliver my re-edited manuscript back on Monday!  This going to be one long weekend.  Till then this will be my theme song. 

The Journey Moves On

With the holidays behind me, I put on my tool belt and locked myself in Cabin 108.  An imagination carpenter, this rewrite was a major remodel.  I tend to write like people talk.  "It was just us" is improper English; it should be "It was just we" or "It was I".  Who the heck talks like that?  Seems to me the written word should reflect the spoken word and not the other way around.  What a job.

Today, I finished the project and my second draft is now in the hands of my editor for inspection. I embraced most of her suggestions, resisted a few, and the story is now tighter, more developed in character description, growth and story line, yet I stayed true to the message.  Now it's hurry up and wait for my editor's response which will probably take two weeks.  I am already over budget with editing costs, but it's a critical piece of the process if my name is going to be attached.

I have no idea how many hours I have put into this project from start to finish, but I will feel no guilt selling each copy at full list price.  There is no doubt there will be a third draft, but my hopes are high that the issues will dwindle with each ensuing revision.  Proud of myself for getting this far, I have invested too much to give up now.  This is my baby and another milestone has been reached!

Word Repairman

With the holidays behind me, I locked myself in the cabin and got serious with my second draft.  Unlike the Maytag repairman, I have been busy switching out parts, adding, deleting and altering words all over the place.  Took awhile to get comfortable with the Track Changes program in Word, since I had never worked with it before.  The process has been fun, had two chapters done before Christmas and have nineteen done with two to go.  Feel like an imagination carpenter doing a remodel.  

Second Draft

With my bubble popped and asked to work with a program completely foreign to me, I was intimidated to begin my re-write.  I didn't even know Track Changes existed on my computer.  My editor walked me through it on the phone and I thought I understood it until I hung up.  Unsure of myself, I waited for my son-in-law to give me an in-person tutorial.  That's when I got brave and dove in.

Looking at the train wreck I called "Chapter One", it's a wonder I wrote another, let alone twenty more.  Decided the pro knew the proper punctuation, so I accepted all those changes.  That made the screen much easier to deal with.  Then, I just had her comments to consider and there were plenty of them.  One at a time, I dealt with each as most required changes.  I was open to her suggestions and with new eyes saw where she was coming from.  Because I usually write with pen and paper, it was awkward at first to make changes on the computer screen, but I have grown more comfortable with the process.

Took four days, but I think I am nearly done with two chapters and they are much improved.  The issues I need to address in future chapters are far fewer, but I do have major character development changes to deal with.  The end product will barely resemble the first draft.  I am enjoying the process and time permitting around family and holiday festivities, I will soon begin my first attempt at a second draft of my third chapter.        

My Editor

That's right kids, I have one.  After I decided who to work with, my patience was tested.  My editor actually had to read the manuscript before responding.  The waiting was rather brutal, but not as much as her report back.  I have never seen so much red in a document in my whole life.  Made me feel like an illiterate taking a doctorate course.  But, my editor is thorough and experienced.  She also discussed the substance of the story and to read the main character was flawed did not boost my confidence either.  All added up, I wondered if my dream was worth holding onto.  We have been down a long road together and, like a loved one, you don't let go easily.

After a day of introspection, I asked the editor for a phone conference.  She wasn't the big, bad, dream killer after all, just trying to improve the marketability of my book.  I like my editor and I like to say "my editor"!  She is the first completely non-biased person to read my story and although her comments felt harsh initially, she was honest and professional with her analysis of my work.  So, like every other writer, a second draft is in order.  I never envisioned how much more work I'd have to do, but it will be worth it in the long run.

The main thing is I have the final say with this publisher, but I do need to listen to their advice.  That's what I pay them for.  Thus, it's back to the man cave for me to make fixes.  I hope there aren't too many more surprises along the way.  It'd be nice to publish this in my lifetime and write another.  I will be so much better informed the second time around.

Stay tuned, the dream lives on.   

Another Step Forward

Yesterday, I put my money where my mouth is and committed to self-publishing my book.  That’s how 50 Shades and Hunger Games started before they got picked up by traditional publishers.  Print on demand felt like trying to swim, but only getting your toes wet.  To believe in myself and my abilities, I had to dive off the high board and order pre-printed copies.  Professional editing and cover design are critical to a book’s success and those are the steps I am taking right now.  I am anxious to get feedback.  In two months, I could have a paperback ready to share with the Universe.

Apparently it is mail fraud to take pre-orders if you can’t supply product within eight weeks, so I am unable to ask you for that support quite yet.  But, as soon as it’s sent to the printer, I will.  I am hoping you’ll send a little love my way when the time comes. 

Kingsley Amis said "If you can't annoy somebody, there is little point in writing."  My book won’t be everyone’s mug of Earl Grey, but I refuse to believe the dozen or so who have read it are the only ones in the world who will enjoy it.  

In the meantime, I’d like to share the first painting that my book inspired.  Australian artist, Uta Mooney, titled it Intimacy.  Click on her name to learn more about her and her craft.  She is doing a solo gallery exhibit completely based on images drawn from my story.  I should acknowledge that she painted the header I am using on this site. It is only a portion of a much larger painting that will be unveiled at her show in February.  How cool is that? 

Comments About Cabin 108

This...well, THIS! If the reader is not hanging by their nails at the end of this chapter, something is very, very WRONG with them! I had to highlight the whole thing because this--at the middle of the story--has returned to the initial passion of chapter 1, but with an added twist. The writing has flowed from hot and passionate to more relaxed, to real-life-daily~~the whole gamut of emotions have been visited, and I was wondering if you would raise the pace back up or just give peeks and hints, but this DEFINITELY raised the pace! DAMN!

And now I am left wondering, how on earth is the ending going to top this mid-section interlude? (which I know it will, but still, I'm wondering...thinking....)

This chapter really grabbed me and took me on the roller coaster ride.  Here's to the rest of the story~~~CHEERS!

Wow....this sure provided a thrill ride. Good work, good writing. I am delighted to see it progressing and in such a way that I cannot gauge what is around the next paragraph.

I love the visual quality of him scanning the land by moonlight. This is delightful poetry for the mind to soak in and bring forth our own personal landscapes softly glowing under the moon. Beautiful......really beautiful.

I know writing is a hard game but if he stops writing he's a dick head. Here is someone who can write and he needs to keep doing it.

This is something I want to continue reading. I want to know what happens. Does he see everything in images before he writes it? How good to be able to produce this out of your own imagination. The visualization you get from his writing is brilliant.

Intrigue is everywhere with relationships. Developments all over the place. Great reading - good work.

Follow Gordon through this part of his life. Meet his array of friends and enjoy his experiences, varied as they are. There is a piece of all of us in this book, one you must read. Find yourself wanting to travel through life with these characters chapter by chapter. You won't put it down.

I hate romantic books and yet you have captured my interest with this story.

I just gasped and read on with my mouth open. My mind started to scramble to try and find a way the story line could continue.

You sure know how to shock a girl!!! And I don't shock easily. Far out Glenn!!!

I started out totally shocked and outraged, thought it was unbelievable but I ended up understanding something deeper.

You are getting so damn good!!!  I did not want it to end. I was totally engrossed in this chapter. Forgot about everyone and everything while I read it. Totally zoned out. Roared with laughter again.

Your phrasing just cracks me up. I love that about your writing.

You are now delving into emotions of the characters which makes them even more real.

I love reading this book Glenn. I get so much pleasure from it. No wonder you are enjoying writing it so much. To be able to make up characters and make them so real that I can't imagine the world without them is amazing. I can see them. You make me see them. That's really quite astounding isn't it???

ITS BLOODY BRILLIANT!!! I held my breath, the suspense was killing me ... is killing me. Damn that's good.

In true Glenn style we have - They are wise beyond their feathers and leather. Do you realize I look for these treasures now??? I love this quirky little way you have those lines. That sure is your trade mark I reckon. Enjoyed it. 

Another strong chapter with the story gaining depth and the characters worming their way deeper into my heart.

Another turn of events that means you have to read on to find out how it turns out.

Bugger, now you have sucked me in and I can't wait to find out what happens.

Those clever poetic lines are more enjoyable than ice cream!!!

Seductive. impassioned and amusing, Cabin 108 is a tale that will capture you from the very beginning. The characters come alive and are thoroughly entertaining. Their presence grab you and stay with you forever.

You mongrel dog! What an ending (or is it?) I certainly did not have that ending on my list. A great final chapter, one that takes your book to a new level ... well done. As soon as I get time I will read the whole book again and put it all together. It will be interesting.

I read it again all in one go. Oh Glenn its fantastic. The ending is perfect.  I want to read the whole book again from beginning to end.

Your imagination knows no bounds!

It's the story of a man who suddenly finds himself free from a loveless celibate marriage and how he goes about finding his spirit with help from many provocative women.  

Love the sweet and tender and hot, hot, hot all combined!!!  No wonder I love it.....it's like my dream come true!!

Meet Gordon, a man as charming and irresistible as the story he inhabits. Follow along on his quest to stop being what everyone wants him to be and starts finding out who he really is. The changes happening in his life have him on a real roller coaster ride of ups, downs and wicked thrills. Cabin 108 embodies a little bit of everyone’s hopes, dreams and fantasies and will grab you from the very first page.

Cabin 108 introduces you to a lost soul named Gordon, and invites you to tag along for the ride as he tries to figure out this thing called life. Full of irresistible characters and astonishing situations, this page turner will keep you guessing 'What's next for Gordon?' right up to the end.

The C Words

 I wrote a complete novel and that is so freaking awesome, the conductor should let the flugelhorns blow.  For the past six weeks I have been contemplating what to do with my manuscript.  Didn’t really write it for coin, but I could use some about now.  Currently, I don’t have much cash and it takes a considerable amount to self-publish.  My friends have offered to start up a collection to contribute to the cause because they know I poured a whole lot of soul into this effort over an entire calendar.  The characters in my book are comedic, confused and conflicted like me.  I tried for years to find another traditional career and couldn't.  My personal financial cliff is closing in as my checkbook suctions cups my meager assets in a choke hold.  The coolest thing about Facebook is discovering uplifting comments.  Today I saw this post from a friend.

It is exactly the correct thing for me to consider.  Thank you, Universe, for letting this catch my eye.  A few days ago, I called out to my friends that I had decided to make a decision.  I couldn’t promise when.  I have done my calculations, considered my options and am committing myself to take the next baby step toward creating a paperback.  I am choosing to take a colossal chance.  I hope you’ll purchase a copy when they are available and keep me out of your trash cans looking for food.  This is my year of change.     

Melding Art Forms

The working title for my book is Cabin 108.  As I wrote it, Uta Mooney painted my imagination with hers.  I describe my story this way.

As the life he has known disintegrates around him, Cabin 108 chronicles one man’s journey seeking to rediscover himself.  Passion guides him in a new direction.  Grateful for a fresh start, he trusts the path will lead to answers, but it is as crooked as llama teeth.  With a new found freedom, his once famished physical desires feast.  Searching to nourish his spirit with truth and tranquility, his adventures change him, his morals and his boundaries.

Uta describes it visually below.  These are small details of much larger paintings offered as a sneak preview for her solo exhibition early next year to be held at Gallery M in Adelaide, South Australia beginning February 8th.  Be there!  It'll be worth the trip.   

Chapter 1 - Unleashed

Chapter 3 - Goodbye

Chapter 6 - This Sucks

Chapter 9 - Trust

Chapter 15 - Direction

Chapter 16 Exposed

Chapter 21 - Up and Down

The Writer

Due Date

               I have a new found appreciation for authors.  Words do not magically appear on the page, although they seem to when one gets lost in the zone.  It’s not easy braiding thousands of words together coherently.  It requires a passion and persistent drive to persevere.  The time, effort and brain space demand a significant commitment.  I did it and am now trying to learn how to share it with the world.  The most quoted person of all-time, Anonymous, said, “Any fool can write a book, it takes a genius to sell one.”  I never thought about selling my book as I wrote it and hope I am not the next fool who finished one.  It does appear Anonymous was right that selling it requires a bit of genius.

               Traditional publishing companies won’t give a novice writer the time of day unless you are famous for some reason.  Self-publishing has become a respectable alternative for the rest of us.  That’s how 50 Shades of Grey began.  There is hope for the little guys.  But, it requires just as much, if not more, time, effort and money to make it happen.  This is what I am learning now.  Like any other, it is a crowded dream and a challenge to be successful.  How do you stand out, promote, publicize and market your product without yelling from the rooftops like everyone else? 

               I said my sad goodbyes to my amazing tribal members from Chicago when I returned them to the train station a week after their arrival.  As planned, Uta Mooney, from Adelaide, Australia, stayed with me for two more months.  She is a rising star in her community as a painter.  Before she ever came to America, she had begun doing paintings inspired by the images in my unfinished book.  Uta even applied to do a solo exhibition of her work, based on my book, in an Adelaide art gallery prior to leaving and was accepted.  The concept is novel and our collaboration was in full force.  While she was here, I wrote and she painted.  We talked about our art forms till the wee hours of the morning.  Maybe I don’t have to shout, maybe we can team up and promote each other as we try to further our artistic endeavors by melding the two art forms.  I’m back to that freak of nature.  Please read about Uta's journey.  A month after she left, my healthy 83,454 novel was born October 4^th, 2012.   

Second Trimester

A year ago, I would have laughed had you predicted I’d write a book.  I had no aspiration nor intention for such a lofty project.  There was no outline, no underlying message, no plot.  What I had was lots of time, an imagination bigger than I knew, a few blank notebooks and lots of pens.  I write longhand and then edit at the keyboard with two index fingers. 

Through it all, the tribe studied the book that brought us together.  Although it focused on artistic endeavors, it applied to life in general.  Isn't life itself an art form?  Some of the group dropped out for personal reasons, but six of us bonded, three in or around Chicago, two of us the northwest corner of the U.S.  and one in South Australia.  It was an unlikely combination and I don’t think any of us dreamed how close we would become.  We all shared our art and our lives. 

I sent each chapter to them as it was completed.  Sometimes we’d get together and chat online.  It fascinated me when they discussed the characters like they were real people.  They were mad at her for this and concerned about someone else’s feelings.  My words evoked emotions in my mini-audience.  The tribe speculated what might happen next.  Occasionally, I would tease them with a line or two of the next chapter I was working on.  I liked coming up with a shocking development and then leave it hanging.  I threw in some humor, sometimes not knowing where it came from.  A piece of my soul is this book.  That is the definition, the pure and simple essence of art.

It took a year to write my story.  I had multiple lives occurring simultaneously, the real one, the one I was writing in my head, the one that made it to paper and the version I typed on my computer screen.  My real life consisted of my oldest daughter moving two hundred miles away for a good job, my youngest getting married and my wife getting sick.  I coped by escaping into my world of imagination.  It was far better therapy than a shrink or medication.  With three-quarters of the book written, I was transforming into a full-fledged writer with hermit characteristics, long hair and beard, short pants and no shoes.  Artists are not programmed to be conformists.

The tribal bond was strong and plans were put in place to congregate.  None of us had red flag fears of meeting online friends.  We had grown together as a group for ten months.  The original plan was to gather in Chicago where most lived or could turn into a day trip.  Uta, our Aussie contingent, booked a flight.  But, life got in the way for me and I couldn’t attend.  Four of the six made it.  Then, three of them took the train to my house in Seattle.  The four of us drove to Oregon to meet the other non-attendee in Chicago.  While we were there, I sacrificed my hair and beard during a video conference with our one missing squaw.  It all had to come off anyway to please my daughter for her wedding day.  What does this have to do with me writing a book?  Everything!  These five women were my pre-natal vitamin, my believing mirrors who are responsible for motivating me to keep writing.