I was a senior in high school when I realized that I was hooked on poetry. I blame certain people for this unveiling and it did not take long to understand that this was going to be a lifelong list that even continues to grrow today. It all stared with James Weldon Johnson then followed by Langston Hughes, James Baldwin, Maya  Angalou, Ernest Hemmingway, Walt Whitman, Robert Frost and scores of others. They have all been excellent teachers, writers and inspirations in their own unique way. I am challenged and yet love the opportunity to take a word and watch it grow into something lovely and kind.  The picture you see was taken by photographer/friend Jody Miller. Jody has been flicking pics for a long time and you will see some of her work combined with my words from time to time. The picture was taken in the library of their home atop the hill that overlooks the mouth of the Columbia River as it meets the Pacific Ocean. I am divorced and the father of three grown children. One final word, please feel free to read any work I post here at AD, but for goodness sakes, don't try to copy or remove my work to any other web site, book or any form of electronic communication without my expresseed consent. Thanks for understanding.

Dan recently edited a book of poetry and photography written strictly by a group of enthusiastic folks, young and old. This project was sponsored by Sunset Empire Park & Recreation District, and cost of the book was underwritten by TLC Federal Credit Union. Proceeds from the sale of the book were donated to the new library in Seaside, Oregon.