To have my first novel published was one of the nicest surprises of my life.  After teaching for 41 years, I finally had the time and the determination.  I have for most of my life had a creative bent that had to be satisfied in one way or another.  I have done most of the finish work on four of our houses, consider myself something of an artist, having sold several oils and watercolors.  I have also designed, built and sold many pieces of furntiture.  In addition to this, I have also written many poems and had a couple published.