Blog *
Blog *
A Bunch of Bologna
May 15, 2025
Ever bite into a sandwich and find a half-digested note from your mom? I have. In our upcoming book The Ding Dong Altar Boy, one of Donald’s stories features a fried bologna sandwich—and it sent me down a rabbit hole of spelling errors, meat etymology, and memories of 4-H Horse Camp. This post is part grammar fail, part love letter to questionable lunch meat, and part reminder that sometimes affection comes Miracle Whipped between two slices of white bread. If you’ve ever confused baloney with bologna, this one’s for you.
Guilty Conscience
March 19, 2025
Guilt doesn’t always have to be mine to haunt me. Sometimes it’s secondhand shame from a thriller or a forgotten crime show. But did you know the U.S. government has a Federal Conscience Fund where people anonymously send money for all kinds of guilt—from stolen pens to tax fudging? Millions of dollars later, it’s clear we’re not alone in our secret shame. Curious about who’s confessing and what they’re paying for? You might be surprised.
The Power of the Pause
February 26, 2025
I’m not great at biting my tongue. Usually, I say the wrong thing and then replay it in my head on endless loop—wishing for a pause button in real life. Writing gives me that chance to slow down, rethink, and delete my word vomit before it ever reaches anyone’s ears. But no matter how many drafts I write, I can’t Ctrl-Z my way out of every awkward moment. So, I keep trying—and hoping my foot stays out of my mouth next time.
Dear David
February 10, 2025
Dear David at VRBO, thanks for saying no because I have kids. Sure, they’re loud, break things, and argue like tiny humans, but what if I told you they’re more like well-trained pets? No late-night parties, no mess—just exhausted parents who’ll barely use your place before crashing early. Honestly, we’re probably better guests than most “adults” who might trash your beautiful kitchen. But hey, thanks anyway—and good luck with those meth cooks.
The Kingdom and The Shadowlands
Easter, 2025
This morning, Psalm 16 brought to mind The Lion King—specifically the moment when Mufasa shows Simba his kingdom and promises a beautiful inheritance. It’s a powerful reminder of the inheritance Jesus speaks of in Matthew, the kingdom prepared for us all. But just like Simba, we’re tempted to step beyond the light into shadowy places, leaving behind the safety God provides. The story doesn’t end in the darkness, though—it’s about forgiveness, rescue, and returning to the light.
Great Writing Is . . .
February 14, 2025
What if great writing isn’t about the first draft at all? After years teaching middle schoolers, I realized the real magic happens in rewriting—the tough, messy process of cutting what doesn’t serve the story. Now, I’m deep in that grind with The Ding Dong Altar Boy, hacking away at my own messy first draft. It’s not museum material, but maybe, just maybe, it’ll end up on your bookshelf—and make you smile.
Unfinished Business
February 2, 2025
What happens when your debut novel about a struggling college grad isn’t quite right for any market? I once poured months into A Self Diagnosis, a darkly funny story about mental health, faith, and self-discovery — only to face rejection after rejection. Now, decades later, I’m wondering if it’s time to bring her back… or finally let go. Join me as I reflect on the messy, sarcastic protagonist who still haunts me, and what it means to write your truth on your own terms.