Heading Into The New Year / Happenings In The Outhouse 29-Dec-2023

At my day job, I ask my team members to look ahead to 2024.  What strategies are you putting in place to win?

The same goes for my own writing.

I have a strategy.  This strategy I am keeping to myself, but in a nutshell it involves focusing on writing, finishing, and submitting short stories to the short story market.

What are your plans for 2024?

Holiday Happenings / Happenings In The Outhouse 22-Dec-2023

This week, I finished a short story.  I'm submitting it as part of a Kickstarter campaign I helped to fund.  It was originally going to be part of another short story submission, but this one fit better.

As we get closer and closer to Christmas, my family and I have been watching a long line-up of Christmas-themed movies.  From Christmas with the Kranks and Deck the Halls to A Christmas Story and Elf and everything else in between.

Making memories.

What do you think of when you think of the holidays?  From your childhood?

Merry Christmas!!!

Hitting Reset / Happenings In The Outhouse 15-Dec-2023

Keeping this one short again today.

As I reviewed the quarterly goals I had set, not only did I achieve a few, there were ones I hadn't even tackled.  It's okay.  A lot happened in the last three months of 2023.

But at the same time, I achieved quite a bit as far as learning, short stories written AND submitted.

Onward, and upward . . .

What Does Your 2024 Look Like? / Happenings In The Outhouse 08-Dec-2023

 What does your 2024 look like?

And more importantly, what does it take to get there?

Be realistic in your goals, but at the same time push yourself a little too.  Knowing my limits and all the people/places that are vying for my time, it would be unrealistic to say that I want to finish and send out one short story a week.

But, I could push myself and say I could write two a month.  That's twenty-four in a single year.  Very doable.

Once again, think about your 2024.  What does it look like?

Another Story Done and Looking Ahead to 2024 / Happenings In The Outhouse 01-Dec-2023

Another short story has been completed, sent off for publication consideration, and I am now working on the next one or three.  I do have three short stories planned out (all of these were done while sitting in the deer stand, waiting for that big buck to come along but didn't).  It's just to sit down and write them.

And, of course, there are other stories that crop up from time to time.  Ah, life as a writer . . .

Looking forward to 2024, I will be following the same path as I am now, which is focusing more on short stories and submitting them for publication in the short story market.

Thankful / Happenings In The Outhouse 24-Nov-2023

I am thankful for so many things.

The people in my life who lift me up instead of tearing me down.

The steady job I have that allows me to do some fun things as well as giving me the freedom to write.

To find a purpose to live the life I want to live.

There are so many things to be thankful for.

Let's Chat Briefly About Suicide / Happenings In The Outhouse 17-Nov-2023

A few weeks ago, a young lady in our small community committed suicide.  She was a successful businesswoman who was well-known and well-liked.  In fact, at the funeral home for her service, it was standing room only as the people packed themselves inside.  It was a tremendous tribute to her legacy, despite the tragic manner of her passing.

With her suicide, it was the same story you heard many times.  "Oh, I never knew she was depressed."  "Oh, I wish she would've reached out."  "I never knew."

Trust me, for those seriously considering this way out, you never know.  Never.

Remember this guy?

Nobody ever knew what he was going to do on that fateful August day in 2014.

For those in the aftermath of a suicide, the family members and friends will always wonder what they could've done.  Let me answer it: nothing.  Yup, I said it.  Nothing.

Nothing.

I hate to be so blunt.  But nothing except the power of the Lord can help.

More on this topic another time . . .

Didn't Impress Me Much / Happenings In The Outhouse 10-Nov-2023

I was going to dedicate this post to the subject of suicide, but will hold off on that topic until next week.

This past weekend, my girlfriend and I went to a concert by a country music icon, a queen of country so to speak.  Tickets were bought almost a year ago, and we had anticipated how great this concert was going to be.

Well . . . not sugar-coating this, the queen didn't impress us much.

This brings up the point of either not accepting feedback or not being supplied the correct feedback on your art.  Sure, something you create may not be for everyone.  And that's okay.  But when there are repeated suggestions on what's missing (or whatever), then maybe you should listen.

I feel bad for Shania Twain's band.  They played their heart out, and at the end of the day it was Shania's poor performance that will linger on in people's minds.

Down To The Wire / Happenings In The Outhouse 03-Nov-2023

Early on in October, I was able to submit a new short story, with a specific theme, by 10/31 at midnight.  I tried working on this story for a few weeks, but for whatever reason it just wasn't working.  I couldn't figure out the story at all.

Then, over last weekend, I got an idea for a new story that would fit.  With only a few days left to submit, I quickly wrote the story and sent it off.  Right down to the wire.

Crossing my fingers that it works, and now with the new month I'm off to work on other stories.

Fixing Roadblocks and Tangents / Happenings In The Outhouse 27-Oct-2023

I have a problem.

I have a tendency to overanalyze and overthink my stories.

I have a short story that I'm working on that I keep hitting roadblock after roadblock.  I just can't seem to find my way around it.  Then, in a flash, after repeatedly going back through it, I thought of something to change it.

Sometimes all I need to do is stop, reread what I have so far, and then think of something different to throw in.

Tangents, on the other hand, are another problem of mine.  Especially with short stories.  When short stories are supposed to be tight and within a short window of time, I have to tendency to go off on side stories that mean nothing to the story are large.

I'm working on both problems.

Hopefully, these stories will be better in the future.

Adapt And Overcome / Happenings In The Outhouse 20-Oct-2023

Everyone meets challenges in life.  It's inevitable.  No one can escape it, despite their position in power, money, status.  If you think people who are filthy rich have it so easy, think again.  They have a host of troubles that others don't encounter.

No, money does not buy happiness.  If you think that's the case, then why are so many rich people getting divorces or committing suicide or . . . well, you get the picture.  Also, do a quick Google search on the unhappy lives of those who win the lottery.

When you meet a challenge, whether it's lack of money or a health issue or an obstacle at work, it's your mindset on how you adapt and overcome it that will set you apart from others.  If you don't have the money to buy the latest (fill in the blank), instead of bitching and complaining about it, ask yourself what you're willing to sacrifice in order to get it.

Or, if the said object is even worth it.

If you find yourself always broke, but can always gather up enough to buy Starbucks or cigarettes, then that's where your priorities lie.  If there is a position at work that you want and find yourself wondering why in the hell someone else got it instead of you, then maybe you need to work on something to make yourself better.

Your mindset is what can separate yourself from others.  There is something to say about having a positive mental attitude.  Just saying . . .

The Year Of Concerts--And It Ain't Over Yet / Happenings In The Outhouse 13-Oct-2023

For the past 12 months, my girlfriend Melissa and I have been to a slew of concerts.  Just this month alone, we saw Nickelback last week (with Josh Ross and Brantley Gilbert opening), Cole Swindell yesterday, and tomorrow is Luke Bryan.

Phew!

And next month is Shania Twain.

Going to these concerts have brought me back to my high school days when I dreamed of being a rock star.  Yes, yes, I was that kid.  I recall going to prom my sophomore year and being mesmerized by the live band that was on stage.  I wanted to see what they did and how they did it.  I wanted to watch how they entertained.

Even for movies, I wanted to know how things were done.  I wanted to be the entertainer.

The problem was, I was the shy kid.  I preferred to sit in the back of the class, keep my head down, and pray that the teacher didn't call on me.

As a writer, I can still entertain and that is how I view what I write: pure entertainment.

New Month, New Projects / Happenings In The Outhouse 06-Oct-2023

It is a new month, a new quarter.  The last three months of 2023.

I have at least three writing projects (short stories) that I am currently working on.  Five, if I include the projects that are due by the end of each month--these monthly ones are bonus submissions I earned because I contributed to a Kickstarter by an established science fiction/mystery/fantasy/etc. author that also does a lot of writing teaching.

Keeping this one short today as I just started this month's submission.  Sorry, no details.

Reminder to Buy / Happenings In The Outhouse 29-Sept-2023

My annual gym membership came to an end for another year a few weeks ago.  I received no reminder, no head's up that "hey, do you want to renew?"

Nothing.

This would've been a great opportunity to reach out and let me know about any new deals or even a simple reminder that my membership was coming to a close.

How does this apply to your art, to your creations?

You need to remind people that you're still creating, still working on your craft.  Whenever you have something new, tell people.

Handling Feedback / Happenings In The Outhouse 22-Sept-2023

No matter how you receive feedback, how you handle it is what matters.

You can choose to dismiss it.

You can choose to embrace it.

You can take it personally or not.

You can use it as a learning experience.

I recently got a piece of feedback on one of my submitted stories that wasn't quite rosy.  But I embraced it and used it as a learning experience to better future stories.

How do you handle feedback/criticism?  Be honest with yourself.

Lots Of Writing / Happenings In The Outhouse 15-Sept-2023

I have been doing a lot of writing lately.  Short stories.

I have been taking online classes by Dean Wesley Smith and learning lots of new skills, stretching my imagination in ways I barely dreamed of.

What the plan is now is to submit these for publication in the traditional market, whether it's Writers of the Future or other places.  Lots are out in places, and if anything sticks, I'll let you know.

Haircuts In College / Happenings In The Outhouse 08-Sept-2023

Where did I get my haircut while attending Bemidji State University?

No clue.

You may be wondering why I'm inquiring about this now.  Well, the other day, I was talking with someone about cosmetologists throughout our lives, and I stopped to wonder where in the world I got my hair cut in college.  I know I did, but where?

I guess haircuts weren't as important to me as other things.  There were plenty that I do recall, even vividly, over two decades later.

What's important to you?

Idea Machine / Happenings In The Outhouse 01-Sept-2023

I have written about ideas and brainstorming before, but let me elaborate on what could be an idea machine.

I've been improving my writing chops by taking writing classes through Dean Wesley Smith's WMG Publishing on Teachable.  If you're a writer and want to improve your skills, taking Dean's classes (also taught by his wife Kris too) is a must!

Now, what about ideas?

When you're thinking of story ideas, do you go with the first thing that comes to mind?  Chances are, it's what most people will think of and your story will be predictable.  Even the second and third and possibly the fourth thing will be predictable.

When you're brainstorming, try and come up with ten ideas.  I had to do this for one of Dean's classes.  The first few ideas were easy, but to come up with ten was a bit more difficult.  Not impossible by any means, but it allowed me to think well outside my comfort zone.  Well outside the mainstream ideas and come up with something more original.  More unique.

Good luck!

Podcast Fast To The Next Level / Happenings In The Outhouse 25-Aug-2023

I have noted on this blog that I have trimmed down my podcast feed from time to time.  Well, now it's time to do so again.

This time, however, I need to take it to the next level.

In my individual podcast episode feed, there are over 500 episodes from a variety of podcasts.  About 45 or so podcasts, while there may be another 10 that I will pull individual podcasts out of, depending on the subject matter or who is being interviewed.  And one podcast has over 200 saved episodes that I just haven't gotten around to listening to.

What's important to me?

Although the subject matter may be important to me, the growing list of podcasts allows me to do one thing that erodes my time: procrastination.  Yup, the dreaded P word.  Many people do not ever realize their dream because of procrastination.

As of this posting, I have whittled the podcasts down to the low-20's.

I'm still waiting to pull the trigger on the one with over 200.  Do I go back and remove the oldest episodes?  Or remove it altogether?

Time will tell . . . 

Are You Memorable? / Happenings In The Outhouse 18-Aug-2023

In the last weekend of July, our small town had a summer festival with all kinds of food trucks, auctions, nightly concerts, and a Saturday morning parade.

One of my daughters was on a float in the parade, and afterward she asked how her competition did--she works for one of two banks in town.  Her bank did something unique.  All of the workers had flower hats and gave out flower seeds, along with the usual assortment of candies.  The other one?  I don't even remember it.  Seriously.  Not at all.

There were other floats in the parade that were . . . unremarkable.  Not memorable.

We have a haunted woods near town, and their float is always memorable.  A few other floats (I recall a kid promoting his dog poop scooping business) were slightly memorable but honestly that's about it.

What are you doing that's memorable?

Concert Etiquette / Happenings In The Outhouse 11-Aug-2023

Okay, I'm going to rant a bit.

Over this past year, I've been going to quite a number of concerts and as well as a sports event, and I've noticed a trend that is a bit disturbing.

Much of this may seem petty to some, and frankly I don't care how it comes across.  If you feel it does, then move along.  This post isn't for you.

Still with me so far?  Here we go . . .

First, these concerts or games, even in the cheaper sections, cost a bit to get into.  Depending on your situation, you may have to book a hotel or Airbnb.  You may have to pay for parking or an Uber/Lyft driver.  You may even have to pay for drinks/food once you're there.  Here's my issue: did you go there to enjoy the event or go there just to socialize and pay absolutely no attention to the event/concert at hand?  For some, this may be the only event they're able to go to this year.  It's special.  Quite possibly a once-in-a lifetime event.

My issue is the many who seem to ruin it all by their rudeness, drunkenness, and downright disregard for public decency.

Think of others for a change.  If you find yourself getting up from your seat every few minutes to grab a drink or something to eat and not even pay attention to what's going on, then why did you even go?  You are simply ruining it for others who DID go to see what's going on.

There.  Rant over.  Who knows, I may expand on this later.

Peace out.  Enjoy life.

If You Schedule It, It Will Get Done / Happenings In The Outhouse 04-Aug-2023

Be intentional.

If you mean to do something, put it on the calendar.  For myself, it works wonders if I schedule something on my calendar.  It feels more permanent.

In a way, it's like the old adage from Field of Dreams: "If you build it, he will come."  If you schedule it, it'll get done.

Or, at least, the chances of it getting done are much higher.

It's always better to be intentional than not.

My First MLB Game - Twins Vs. White Sox / Happenings In The Outhouse 28-July-2023

Last week, I attended my first Major League Baseball game.  The Minnesota Twins vs. the Chicago White Sox.  We went as it was Donate Life Day with the Minnesota Twins, as a way of celebrating kidney organ donors and their families and to raise awareness for kidney disease.

I have to say, it was the most fun I have had in a long, long time.  Even not being much of a sports fan at all, it was a lot of fun to be there.  We were seated right off of the third base line, and there were so many home runs, it was hard to keep track of them all.

The Twins defeated the White Sox 9 to 4.  There were 4 home runs for the Twins, and 2 for the Sox.  One standout was Byron Buxton, who hit two of the four homers.

Another standout was one of the stadium ushers.  You see, my mother needed a wheelchair, and this gentleman not only escorted her to the right section (on the other side of the stadium), he picked her up after the fireworks (which were amazing!) and escorted her back to the main entrance.  He got to know all of us, where we were from.  I only wish I caught his name.  You could tell that he absolutely loved his job.

In my recent book Pop Flies And Grounders, the main characters go to a Twins game.  Granted, it was in the mid-80's when Kirby Puckett was the most known player, but it was interesting how close I got some of the details.  Keep note, I did say some.  I did take into account a wide array of creative license with the book.

The cost of the tickets, food, and merchandise was fairly reasonable too.  So if you are in the Twin Cities, check out a Twin game.  It is something we'll do again.

Pop Flies And Grounders Is Published / Happenings In The Outhouse 21-July-2023

Pop Flies And Grounders has now been published!

Here is a synopsis of this middle grade novel:

"Twelve-year-old Cassidy Reed recently lost her father. But when her mother Eve moves away from the hustle and bustle of the Twin Cities to quiet small-town Minnesota, Cassidy feels like her whole world is crumbling. Her greatest pastime is softball. It is then that she discovers that her new neighbor is an ex-MLB player, Max Coleridge, and the two quickly become fast friends as he teaches her new skills.

But there are rumors about Max. Rumors about why he was kicked out of the Major Leagues. So Cassidy sets out to find the truth, and along the way discovers even more secrets about this small town."

Here is the link for the Amazon store. And the Kobo Books store.

Once other stores at up and running, I'll share those as well.

Google Play Store.

Lessons Learned From Bryan Adams and Joan Jett / Happenings In The Outhouse 14-July-2023

On July 3rd, my girlfriend Melissa and I saw Bryan Adams in concert in the Twin Cities.  Joan Jett opened for him.

It was an amazing concert, and Brian Seltzer even made a surprise appearance for a handful of songs.

One thing we noticed with both artists were the fact that they acknowledged their band.  A lot.  They honored them and made note of the bands they played with throughout the show.

Authors do this all the time in books.  They dedicate the work to someone.  Typically a spouse or significant other.  Even though being a creative artist, one still does not do it alone.  That person may not read or listen to your music or see what you've done, but they still support you.  Or, in the case of Bryan Adams and Joan Jett, they are nothing without the band.

Home Stretch on WIP / Happenings In The Outhouse 07-July-2023

Today, I am halfway through the final read-through of my work-in-progress, my Middle Grade novel titled Pop Flies And Grounders.

Here is the cover of it:

Pretty cool, isn't it?

A Brief Pause While I Knock Out A Short Story / Happenings In The Outhouse 30-June-2023

I was deep in the middle of doing a final pass-through of my current work-in-progress, a Middle Grade novel titled Pop Flies And Grounders, when I got an email from Writers of the Future.  It was an end of the quarter reminder to get my short story submission in if I wanted to enter this quarter's contest.

Writers of the Future is a quarterly science fiction/fantasy contest, and it is one I have entered many times before.  At first, I almost deleted the email, but then realized that I could just pause my editing and knock out a new short story.

So knock one out I did.

For more information on the Writers of the Future contest, click on this link: Writer Contest | Writers & Illustrators of the Future (writersofthefuture.com)

Pop Flies And Grounders Is Completed / Happenings In The Outhouse 23-June-2023

As of June 17th, I wrote the last words to my Middle Grade novel Pop Flies And Grounders.

The idea for this book started out when my daughter and I tossing a softball in the backyard years ago, and she didn't want me to throw the easy ones.  She wanted me to throw pop flies and grounders.  The name stuck . . . and so did the ensuing story idea.

Over the next few weeks, I'll be doing a final read-through, and then hitting the publish button.  I'll share more next week.

Stay tuned . . .

Stealing Ideas / Happenings In The Outhouse 16-June-2023

If there ever an original idea that can be stolen?

And how original can your idea be?

Recently, an acquaintance suggested to their employer to have a bake sale to help raise funds for some new equipment.  Nothing more was said by the employer, and then when the employer actually did have a bake sale, this acquaintance had the nerve to say, "They stole my idea!"

As if NOBODY else has ever heard of having a bake sale.  It was an idea.  A suggestion.  Seriously, get over it.

That being said, the employer could've said, "Hey, thanks for the idea!" to at least give the employee some recognition.  They didn't.

Ideas are a dime a dozen.  They're everywhere.

I recently attended two online writing workshops.  One was on cold cases and the other was on modern murder cases.  At the end of the three-week workshops, I had to write a short story with a specific given scenario.  I completed them on time (I got great feedback on them too, by the way).  Now, I have no way of knowing this, but there were probably dozens of people taking both courses and I'll bet that each story, despite having a specific scenario, were all completely different.

Come up with ideas.  Share them.  Give them away.  Then come up with more ideas.

In fact, one assignment on the cold case workshop was to come up with ten different ideas for cold cases.  That was quite a feat, and I had a blast doing it.  The first ideas were easy, but as I got down the list they were more difficult to come up with.  But I still did it.

So go have a bake sale!  Don't worry, it wasn't my idea!

On a side note, I'm nearing the end of my current work-in-progress.  I surpassed the 90,000 word mark.  Hoping to finish it up in the next few weeks.

Watch Your Mouth / Happenings In The Outhouse 09-June-2023

Beware of what you say to others.

I recently came upon someone's rant about being so busy with their business that they didn't know if they'd have time to get everything done in time as well as spend quality time with their family.  My first thought when I saw this was, "Well, that can easily be fixed.  No one does business with you.  There.  Done."

I looked at the comments--no, I didn't comment and never would--and so many people gave this person feedback like "It's so great that you're business is going so well."  Even the person's spouse gave them moral support.

I also had someone tell me something similar in person.  My mind raced with similar thoughts of "Well, it must be nice to have such a thriving business."  But again I said nothing.

If you truly need to rant about something, find one person (in confidence) that you can lean on.  And do it in private.  Maybe you're looking for a solution?  Or maybe you're just looking to rant?  God could even be that One to lean on and ask for a solution or guidance.

Again, watch what you say.  You never know who may be listening/reading your rant.

Dreams Are Great (But Ground It In Reality) / Happenings In The Outhouse 02-June-2023

You start a business.  You sell your first product.  Maybe you get a customer to sign a contract for your services/product.

Wow!  You are flying high!  You dream of vacations, houses, cars, all kinds of stuff!

Dreams are great.  I'm a dreamer.  But I am also a realist.  Having the responsibility of a family and current bills/debts, I cannot bank on my writing income to sustain me alone.

Maybe you just got your real estate license and sold your first house for a nice commission.  At what point to you throw all the chips on the table and go full bore?

These are questions you need to have with yourself (and loved ones), but honestly you'll probably just ignore me and do what you want.

My writing is what I love to do, and at this point is a side hustle.  There's nothing wrong with side hustles.  You need some sort of guaranteed income until the side hustle overcomes the day job.

And here's another piece of advice, to take or leave: do not proclaim every single victory from the mountaintop.  Keep them to yourselves, with the exception of your most loved one.  Celebrate the victories with that one, because chances are, they are also sacrificing something so you can do your dreams.

And, hopefully, one day that dream will become a reality.  But until then, keep your head down and keep working.

Lastly, have fun!

Thoughts Behind Certain Rules / Happenings In The Outhouse 26-May-2023

A few weeks ago, my girlfriend and I went to a Kenny Chesney concert at a nearby town.  It was a great time.

One thing I noticed prior to walking into the arena were the rules regarding prohibited items.  There were the usual things that made sense.  No weapons or outside beverages/snacks or explosives.  No animals (excluding service animals, of course) or illegal drugs, etc.

One stuck out: no video cameras or recording devices.

Huh?  Nearly every person in the building has a video camera/recording device.  It's called . . . a cell phone.

The very first concert I went to was Motley Crue in Winnipeg, Manitoba.  In order to get inside, everyone was patted down.  I had a retainer case (I had recently gotten my braces off) in my front pocket and the security guard pointed at it and demanded to know what that was.  So I showed him.  Nothing nefarious at all.  There were similar signs regarding recording equipment.  Not long later, I did obtain a bootleg copy of the same Crue concert that happened a few nights before.  I don't know the story behind it, but it was interesting that it was still recorded.

A few nights after the Kenny concert, we went to another concert at a local casino.  I noticed the same signs about recording equipment.  I pointed it out to my girlfriend.  We chuckled, and commented that everyone in the place has one of those in their pocket.

Some rules are fine.

Others . . . for the love of God, eliminate them.

Rebranding And Brief Pause To WIP / Happenings In The Outhouse 19-May-2023

A large local employer in my area is going through a rebrand.  Rebranding what they stand for and what they do, how they want to be perceived by customers, vendors, and even employees.

Even if you are a solo entrepreneur or artist, your brand is just like this.  John Grisham is known as the legal thriller author.  Stephen King is known as a horror author.  J. K. Rowling is known for Harry Potter.  J. R. R. Tolkien is known for the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings.  Despite all of these authors writing outside of what they're known for, that is their brand.

Your brand also reflects what one does on social media.  If you are politically sided on one end of the spectrum or always known to be contentious, that's your brand.  If your brand is that you are a genuinely nice person, then so be it.

What do you want to be known for?  What will be said about you at your funeral?

Think on it.

And live your life to fulfill that.

On a side note, I am slowing down my work on my current work-in-progress.  I am taking two online classes (three weeks in total for each of these two, and both are being taken at the same time) I achieved from a Kickstarter about cold cases and modern cases from a fiction writing perspective, and it's eating into a little of my writing time.  But that's okay.  Because it's only going to make my writing that much better.

Adapt And Overcome (Makeshift Chopsticks) / Happenings In The Outhouse 12-May-2023

The other day at work, I brought leftover pot roast.  My girlfriend had made it a few nights earlier, and it was amazing.  But when I opened my lunchbox to retrieve the leftovers, I discovered something was missing: no plasticware.  No fork, knife, or spoon.

Nothing.

Across the room, near the coffee pots was a container of stirring sticks.  I grabbed a few, and used them like chopsticks to eat my lunch.

I adapted to the situation, and overcame.  I succeeded.

Oh, sure, I could've used my fingers and ate like a pig, but I didn't.

When many are hit with obstacles, their first instinct is to curl up in a ball and whine.  Don't do that.  Think to the positive.

Another example occurred just the other night.  My youngest was doing her homework and had to write something.  But something happened that caused her work to get lost.  It was no longer retrievable.  She asked me, "Dad, have you ever had this happen?  What did you do?"

My answer was simple: "It happens all the time when I'm writing.  Maybe not a software glitch, but I may get stuck.  So I go do something else and come back to it.  Or think of it as a fortune, because I'll write something better."

You know what happened?  She wrote something better.

If you hit obstacles, think of it as a blessing and come up with a solution.  A better one will present itself.

Closer And Closer To Done / Happenings In The Outhouse 05-May-2023

It seems like I've been saying this for quite some time, but I am getting closer and closer to finishing my current work-in-progress.

Closing in at 84,000 words, my feeling is that it may be around 90,000 by the time it is done.  Which is quite long for a Middle Grade novel, but the story is what it is.  It wants to be told.

Shake It Off / Happenings In The Outhouse 28-April-2023

You find yourself tossed into the bottom of a well.  Then, shovelful after shovelful of dirt is thrown in.  You are trapped.  What do you do?  Let yourself be buried?  Or use the dirt to rise yourself out of the hole?

In other words, shake it off.

From time to time, things will happen that will throw you off your game.  It happens to everyone.  Shake it off and move on.  Figure out a solution instead of just complaining that nothing can be done.  I heard someone say once, "If you bring me a dead cat, you better bring me a shovel."  In other words, bring a plan for your situation.

When my late wife was diagnosed with leukemia back in April 2011, it would've been easy for me to throw in the towel and say I quit!  But I didn't.  I double-downed on my writing.  When her illness progressed over the years from the side effects of her transplant, I will admit that I had some dark days.  Then, in early 2018, I turned everything over to God.

I did put things in God's hands many times over the years, but for whatever reason that was a turning point for me.  When her illness took a massive turn for the worst in May 2019, leading to eventual passing in January 2020, I did take a step back a bit.  I still wrote, but not as much as before.  I took small steps.  I knew when my head wasn't in the right place.  So I'd take a small break and either watch a show or read.  When I was able to join the local gym, I took solace in improving my overall health.

I looked for solutions.

I shook off things, and moved onward.

Life is never easy.  But it's how you react to it that matters.

Something New / Happenings In The Outhouse 21-April-2023

Once my current work-in-progress is complete, I am going to do something completely different.  I don't know if I'll follow this for the remainder of the year or just for a few months.

For the longest time, I have written nothing but novels, with the occasional novelette/novella sprinkled in.  Now, I am going to write short stories.

My goal: write one short story a week.

Even with my hectic schedule, I am still going to try this daunting task.

Currently, I am at the 80,000 word mark and it seems to be coming closer to done.  I'm crossing my fingers that I share more on this project in the upcoming weeks.

Trash Talk / Happenings In The Outhouse 14-April-2023

What do others say about you when you're not around?

You may answer this with, "I'm sure they think I'm a good person" or "Oh, I don't know, but I'm sure it's good."

No matter what the true answer is, how are people speaking about others when you are around?  Do they trash talk others?  If they do, chances are, they do it to you too.

There is an old adage that says, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say it."  Maybe instead of speaking trash about someone you may disagree with, let's try remaining silent.  Let's try stepping in their shoes and seeing what life is like.

What would you like others to say about you?  Start with you and place the rest in God's hands.

Princess/Prince Mentality (AKA I Want It Now!) / Happenings In The Outhouse 07-April-2023

 We've all seen the meme, from the Gene Wilder movie Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory: 

Funny how this movie came out in 1971 yet there is so much in our society now in 2023 that reflects with the character Veruca Salt.  With the advent of the internet and technology as a whole, things are moving faster and faster.  Movies go from the theaters to the digital platforms/DVDs/Blue Ray in a matter of weeks and days.

Even information can be had by quickly searching your favorite search engine.

My current work-in-progress is set in the mid-1980's, and it's funny to think about how children today could never survive during the 80's, despite the many shows/movies set during that time.  Even the mentality many have today seems so out of whack when I reflect on my own childhood.  Never did I ask my Mom what was for supper, and, if it wasn't something I liked, I never told her as such--rarely did she make something I didn't like, as she is a fantastic cook.

So many things are given to people today without thinking.  The starting wage on many jobs in the area are around $15 or so an hour.  The starting wage at the grocery store where I worked at when I was sixteen was around $3-4 an hour.  When I started at my current job at $7 an hour, back in 1997, I thought I was rich!

I don't mean to pick on kids either.  I meet many adults who have this mentality that they are a princess or a prince, and that everyone has to kneel before them, to always do their bidding or else they'll whine and moan.

In the words of W. Axl Rose, we need a little "patience."

Take a deep breath.  Pause.  Reflect.  Pray.

Conundrum / Happenings In The Outhouse 31-March-2023

Conundrum.

Most don't use this word, nor do they even know what it means.  It can be defined as a problem that has no clear solution.

Over the past several months, I have been writing a middle grade novel set in the 1980's.  I am currently around 73,000 words and--here's the conundrum--I have no idea as to how much longer it's going to be.  My original due date to finish it was the first of the year.  If you check your calendar, that's long past.  Then, I put April 1st as a due date.  Yup, you guessed it.  Still not done.

I do feel like it is winding down, but I don't know if I have 10,000 or 20,000 more words to put into it.  It's getting to be one long book, especially for a middle grade novel.

For now, I put May 1st as a due date.  I'm crossing my fingers that it will be done by then.  At that time, I will share more details on it.

Planning For The Future / Happenings In The Outhouse 24-March-2023

Ironically, today is my late wife's birthday.  She would've been 51.

A few weeks ago, I read a blog post by Dean Wesley Smith on estate planning.  It is well-written and thought provoking, for sure.  Please take the time to read it, save it, and come back to it time and again.

It is selfish not to plan for the future, not to plan for your eventual demise.  It warms my heart to think about the words I'm publishing today producing fruit for my children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren and beyond for others to enjoy.

Do not put this off until tomorrow.  Do it today.

And do not--and I stress do not--instruct others to throw away your writing.  I can't think of a more idiotic way of disposing of your hard work.

If you don't know, there is a world of knowledge right at your fingertips.  Use Dean's post as a starting point.

Outside The Comfort Zone / Happenings In The Outhouse 17-March-2023

The best way to grow as a person is to do things outside of your comfort zone.

Now, this may seem easy for one to say, but not so easy to action.  Unless you make it a habit.  Make a habit of going outside your comfort zone.  My girlfriend and I go on frequent date nights--at least once a week, if possible.  When we go to a restaurant, I look for something I haven't had before.  One of our favorite restaurants in a nearby town I have had most items on the menu.  We have also gone to a variety of concerts, from heavy metal to country western.  Now, honestly, country isn't my thing, but I do love music in general.  And those country artists I have seen have certainly put on a great show.

Last week, we went to see the 80's heavy metal band Skid Row.  They have a new lead singer, Erik Gronwall, who was absolutely amazing!  I vividly recall the first time I listened to Skid Row with their former singer Sebastian Bach.  I didn't think the new guy would hold up to Bach.  Boy, was I wrong!

Even my current work-in-progress is outside of my comfort zone.  It is a middle grade novel and there are times I want to add something but given the potential audience I write it a little differently.  I'm not writing down to the audience--that's a huge no-no in my book, no pun intended.

I am also on the church council of the church I attend.  This is my second year and this year I am on a committee that is allowing me to stretch as a Christian.  At work, I am intentionally doing things that are outside of my comfort zone to stretch my mental muscles.

Find areas that give you pause and go forth with gusto!  If you've never gone grocery shopping, do it.  If you've never flown on an airplane, do it.  If you've always wanted to write a book, what's stopping you?  In the words of Nike . . . just do it!

Handling Negativity / Happenings In The Outhouse 10-March-2023

I read a blog post the other day and came across this saying:

How true this is, for some people to always come up with problems to potential solutions.

I run into this daily at my day job, when there are possible solutions and all the feedback one can give them is negative in nature.

What are your first thoughts when a solution is presented to you?  In what light do you see it?  Do you see the possibilities or all the ways it can fail?

Stupid Questions and Brain Farts / Happenings In The Outhouse 03-March-2023

"Can I ask you a stupid question?"

For me, the stupidest question is the one that's never asked.  I've held this notion for as far back as I can remember.  I've had numerous people come up to me, asking if they could ask a stupid question.  I always respond back in kind, repeating my mantra of what the stupidest question is.

99 times out of 100, the question is actually quite profound and I tell them so.  The look of shock makes me chuckle.

But what about the 1 time?  The 1 time out of 100 when the question is, what one would consider, stupid?  I keep that to myself.  I never tell them that the question could be considered stupid.  It could just be a brain fart--when you know the answer, but can't quite remember.  And just because I may feel it is stupid doesn't mean it is.  Ask it anyway.

Be brave to ask questions.  I maybe don't do it enough myself.  My method of learning is to sit back and let the knowledge soak into me like a water into a sponge.

So go ahead and ask your questions.

Just because you may think they're stupid doesn't mean someone else isn't wondering the same and is afraid to ask.

I Think I Can / Happenings In The Outhouse

I can't say I'm on the home stretch for my current work-in-progress, but I am certainly edging closer and closer.

I am over 64,000 words and I still have a lot more to write.  Or do I?

Last weekend, the love of my life and myself went to the Blake Shelton concert in the Twin Cities.  Man, he can put on a great show!  We had very decent seats too.

Well, back to work . . .

Surpassing The 60K Mark / Happenings In The Outhouse 17-Feb-2023

A quick update today on my current work-in-progress.

Earlier this week, I surpassed the 60,000 word mark and I am just plugging on ahead.  I have a goal to finish by April 1st, if not before.

Then, I am thinking about what to do next.  It'll be something different.

Stay tuned . . .

From A Widow's POV / Happenings In The Outhouse 10-Feb-2023

Last weekend, my girlfriend and I watched the movie "A Man Called Otto" starring Tom Hanks.

Given that we both had lost spouses, and from what we heard about Tom Hank's character, we had reservations about the movie since the character Otto was a widow, but we knew it would be good.  And it certainly was!  One of the better movies we had seen since Top Gun 2, which was also amazing!

Looking at the world through the lens of a widow/widower is not easy for some and not quite so difficult for others.  Both of us seem to be in the former camp now, as we have strong values when it comes to how we view death.

We are both Christians and with that comes a strong sense of faith and belief that death is not permanent.  We will both see our former spouses again in Heaven one day.  And that is not to say we do not grieve our former spouses.  We do.  But with our values, we have found a way to move on and live life the way God wants us to.

On a side note, there was an element to the movie that gave me pause on a personal note, and it will be a topic that I will dive into down the road.  I'm just not ready at the moment.  That topic is suicide.

But that, my friends, will be for another day.

Thinking To The Future / Happenings In The Outhouse 03-Feb-2023

A few weeks ago, a big-name musician announced that he sold his entire music catalog for (reports say) around $200 million.

I have mixed feelings about this, from an artist's perspective.  Obviously, my writing doesn't bring anywhere near this amount if someone were to ask me to sell my entire writing catalog to them, but down the road, what if someone would?

It's an interesting concept.

Now, a lot depends on the terms of the contract.  Would said-musician get all $200 million at once?  Of course, Uncle Sam will take a huge bite out of it, but taxes would come out anyway, even if it was much lower.

My first thought when I heard this was, "What about future heirs?  What about the rest of their life?  What if they create more music?"  The musician in question is very, very young.  Does this musician plan on not making anymore music?

If, over the course of their lifetime, the amount would bring more than what is offered, then it's a bad deal.  Then again, if you bank the $200 million (minus taxes) and invest it wisely, it may bring in much more.

I then ask, "Why not both?"  Invest earnings and continue to create?

Again, it's an interesting concept to ponder.  So much more than this tiny blog post.

Sports, Baseball Cards, And Other Unfamiliar Things / Happenings In The Outhouse 27-Jan-2023

Most, if not all, who know me, know that I am not a sports fan.

So why in the world did I start writing a book about baseball (and baseball cards) is truly beyond me.  But that's the way creativity works, I guess.

My current work-in-progress is a Middle Grade novel, inspired by my oldest daughter when we were out tossing a softball around many years ago.  The title struck me right away (I will share this at a later time), and I've had it on the backburner for a long, long time.

When I started it last summer, I didn't quite know the exact direction the story would go.  Well, truth be told, I never know the exact direction any story I've written goes right from the beginning.  Stories unfold as they're written, like opening a Christmas gift you have no clue as to what it is.

I knew the story was going to be about baseball and softball, the latter I'm slightly familiar with as I used to play on a youth softball league in my younger days.  Most of the kids in the town I grew up in played on this league, boys and girls.  But it soon delved into unfamiliar territory when baseball cards came into the story and, soon, baseball and sports in general.

I've done enough research to not completely botch it, but I know there will be details others may point out.  I don't care if I botch it, but I do care to write it with just enough authenticity that it appears I know what I'm talking about.

If you run into unfamiliar things, embrace it and learn.  Not that I'm going to turn into a sports fan or even an expert in baseball card collecting, because I'm not.  But learning new things has been quite fun.  Who knows where it will all lead?

It's Okay To Reset On Stalled Project / Happenings In The Outhouse 20-Jan-2023

I'm not saying my current work-in-progress is stalled completely, but I'm at a point where I'm not clear as t the direction of the story.

All I need is time to think.

I've had a few things going on in the past week that has stalled this project a bit, but not completely.  My mind is still working, sorting out details and asking questions as to the direction on where the story is heading.

Never fear, it will be done.

So I took a few days, hit the pause button, and am now refocusing on the project.  I have no doubt that it will turn out well in the end.

Quick Update / Happenings In The Outhouse 13-Jan-2023

Been a busy week with other non-writing activities--and writing, of course.

I am currently over 52,000 words in my current work-in-progress, a middle grade baseball-related novel.  My initial deadline was February 1st, but that will more than likely be pushed out a little bit.

But no worries, the story is plugging away and I'm loving it!

The Past Isn't Always Your Future / Happenings In The Outhouse 06-Jan-2023

"I'm always bad at math!"

Or fill in math with something else.  Listen to what you're telling yourself.

Listen for the word . . . "always."

If always is followed by something negative, stop thinking about it.  Strive to think the exact opposite.  I recently had a conversation with a younger person who said they were always bad at math because their Dad was bad at math, so therefore they will always be bad at math.  I wanted so bad to reach across and yank the word "bad" and "always" from their mouth.

Then, I tested this person on some flash cards.  Out of two hundred, this person got . . . three wrong.  That's it.  Just three.  And it was multiplying large numbers too.

If you find yourself saying that you're bad at something, do something to fix it.  Or remedy it in a way in your favor.  For myself, I'm not much of a DIY person and would rather hire someone to do a job professionally.  The time spent on other tasks I know I'm good at, to help pay for those who are good at other tasks, is time well spent.

But if I truly had to, I could figure out a way.

Because there always is a way.