It’s not easy being an artist

So the other day I got an unexpected check in the mail, and I went out and squandered it on a food processor and a Dustbuster. The nineteen-year-old who still lives in my brain was appalled that this is what I would do with a hundred bucks because she would have bought some great shoes…

Let me state for the record that all of the things I have done in life made sense at the time. I have never once thought, “Well, this will be an expensive, foolish, and ultimately useless endeavor. Where do I sign up?” No, I always think it is absolutely the right course of action under…

Me: “So there’s a guy with a baler on the shoulder of the road—” Big City Friend: “A what?” Me: “A baler, like a Haybuster. You know.” BCF: “A what?” Me: “A baler, a Haybuster baler!” BCF: “Are you even speaking English?” Me: “I’m describing a vehicle on the shoulder of a county road in…

The first one comes in the fall of Jessica’s junior year, a letter from the admissions office of Kansas State University. I don’t immediately recognize what it is. Once I do, for a moment hope flaps its vain and tinsel wings. Maybe it’s true. Maybe my daughter can go to college, and get a great…

Jessica and I went to the beach for our annual summer vacation. Jessica was under the impression that beach vacations included actual activities. But despite our slight difference in priorities, we had a wonderful time. ### My collection of travel stories, Travels with Jessica, is now available! Kindle and paperback here; other ebook formats here….

This was a sign on the wall near a cliff Jessica and I visited during our European adventures. Note that it is a very graphic representation of what could happen if you step too near the edge. Note that I disregarded the sign even after I took a picture of it. In other words, I…