I spent 32 years as a probation officer, a field that brought me in contact with numerous interesting characters who sometimes appear in disguise in some of my writing. Writing has always been a passion, but I now have the time in retirement to actually put a story together that I feel others would enjoy reading. In college and graduate school I read most of the classics, but felt drawn to a lighter side of the literary field. When I picked up my first copy of a Jean Shepherd book, I knew I was truly hooked. Some books inspire, some move the reader to tears, while still others enthrall with mystery, engaging characters or social commentary. They are all worthy, of course, but I totally enjoy a book that can make me laugh, leave me with a smile and help put sometimes dreary days into perspective. I have read every one of Garrison Keillor's books and my favorite isWLT. His mind is the kind I admire, capable of conjuring up outrageous events and characters in stories that flow like a cool brook in which one would love to dip one's toes. Lordy how I wish I could write like these two men. Perhaps some day I will. I belive I have made a good start.

No major awards yet, but I did win $50 in a poetry contest so long ago I can't remember what I did with the money. Does that count?