This morning was a lot like the previous few up on Mount Tabor; slate-gray, damp, with a hint of chill in the air. It might be nearing spring on the calendar, but winter seems determined to get at least one more jab in before hitting the mat. So I’m up on the mountain, doing what […]

Ever feel like you’re the only one who isn’t in on the cosmic joke? I take a walk every morning in one of the handy patches of urban wilderness nearby. Usually, it’s a peaceful reprieve from the daily insanity; a way to reconnect with my thoughts and watch the squirrels, get my blood coursing, and […]

Let me preface this by saying that I’m a pragmatist when it comes to the creative process. Often, I hear friends talk about characters who want to do this, or refuse to do that, as if those fictional beings held the reins. I might give a knowing smile or nod, but down deep I’m thinking […]

I found myself in a curious position this week. My writing partner and I are expanding our fiction critique group, and as part of that I posted an announcement in the weekly email blast by Willamette Writers, our local writing association. No sooner had the announcement run than writing samples from eager group participants began […]