A Writer's Journal

Learn more about my passions and thoughts behind my stories.

The Fine Line Between Truth and Fiction: How My Life Shapes My Stories

They say write what you know. I’d argue this is only part of it.


For me, storytelling isn’t about inventing thrilling plots or creating compelling characters—it’s about taking the threads of my own experiences and weaving them into something that feels real. The …

Read more
Dentist or an SNL skit?

Title: When Your Dentist Brings a Cell Phone to a Crown Fitting

Today was supposed to be straightforward—a routine dental visit to get a crown placed on a post I had installed seven months ago. Instead, I walked out of the office somewhere between disgusted, baffl…

Read more
The Trails We Leave Behind: Love, Loss, and the Shadows That Follow

The Trails We Leave Behind: Love, Loss, and the Shadows That Follow


For 22 and a half years, I was married. Then I wasn’t. Divorce has a way of forcing you to look at yourself in ways you never expected. It strips everything away—your identity as a partner, your …

Read more
Through the Smoke: Watching the Almeda Fire and the Story It Sparked

On September 8, 2020, I stood with my son and watched the beginning of something we couldn’t yet comprehend—the Almeda Fire. What started as a small blaze on the outskirts of Ashland, Oregon, quickly transformed into a force of destruction, consuming everything in…

Read more
Authors Who Shaped My Writing

Every writer is a product of their influences. The books we read shape our voice, our storytelling choices, and the way we develop characters. My writing is uniquely my own, but I can’t deny the deep impact of the authors who have captivated me over the years. Som…

Read more
How Travel Broadens My Perspective as a Writer

There’s something about stepping outside your familiar world that changes you. For me, traveling to 49 U.S. states and abroad has been more than just a personal adventure—it’s been a creative wellspring for my storytelling. Each destination offers new characters, …

Read more
Finding Stories in the Spin of the Wheels

There’s something meditative about the rhythm of cycling—the sound of the tires, the steady cadence of the pedals, and the wind against your face. Whether I’m tackling a rugged mountain trail or gliding down a quiet back road, cycling connects me to the world in a…

Read more
Through the Lens – How Photography Fuels My Writing
Updated Oct. 31st, 2024

A picture might be worth a thousand words, but for me, each click of the shutter holds a whole story—a moment layered with details waiting to be unraveled. Photography isn’t just a hobby; it’s a second set of eyes, always teaching me to lo…

Read more
Oregon’s Hidden Gems: Locations You’ll Find in The Rogue River Incident
Published Oct. 14th, 2024

Oregon’s diverse landscapes have long captured my imagination and provided rich inspiration for The Rogue River Incident. From wild rivers and serene lakes to valleys that have evolved over time, these places hold a special significance …

Read more
Character Development: How Real-Life Experiences Shape My Fictional Characters
Published Sept. 21st, 2024

When creating fictional characters, I often draw from the rich tapestry of my life experiences. From my time in the Air Force to my love of the outdoors, extensive travel, and the powerful moments I've shared as a father and theater par…

Read more
Ben Franklin Would Approve
Published Aug. 27th, 2024

A Slice of Oregon Life at Weekend Brewery in Grants Pass

There’s something special about sitting at a place like Weekend Brewery in Grants Pass. The moment you walk through the doors, you’re greeted by an eclectic mix of people—each one …

Read more
Oregon Roots: How the Mountains, Rivers, and Natural Beauty of the Pacific Northwest Inspire My Stories and Fuel My Creativity
Updated Aug. 19th, 2024

When I'm asked about inspiration and what fuels my writing, it often comes back to Oregon. The Pacific Northwest isn't just a setting for my stories—it runs through every chapter, every character. From the mountains to the endless outdoor …

Read more
Uncovering the Stories Behind the Clutter: A Journey Through My Father's Workshop
Published Aug. 15th, 2024

One man's junk is...

As I continue the daunting but rewarding task of cleaning out my father’s shop, I’m struck not only by the tools and trinkets he collected over the years but also by the overwhelming clutter. It’s an experience fille…

Read more
Destinations for Fans of the Supernatural in Oregon
Published Aug. 2nd, 2024

Oregon is known for its stunning, rugged landscapes, from coastal cliffs to towering forests. But beyond its natural beauty, this state has its share of mysteries, legends, and supernatural lore. As a fan of all things mysterious and a lo…

Read more
The Art of Suspense: How to Build Tension in Mystery Writing
Published Jul. 16th, 2024

Creating suspense in a mystery novel is an art in itself. Crafting a story that keeps readers on edge, guessing and second-guessing, requires subtlety, skill, and a deep understanding of pacing. As a writer, my goal is to lead readers do…

Read more
The Never-Ending Subscription Saga of Watching Sports on TV
Updated June. 25th, 2024

Ah, the days of flipping on the TV to catch the game! It used to be so simple—turn on the set, grab a snack, and settle in. But now, watching sports feels like navigating a maze of subscriptions, logins, and blackout restrictions. It’s as…

Read more

Some Authors Who Shaped My Writing