Painfully Hopeful

The Shepherd’s Crown – A final trip into Discworld

This Tuesday I received a package on my doorstep for which I was filled with both anticipation and trepidation. Inside were the last words from Terry Pratchett I would ever read. I’ve been a fan of Pratchett since I first heard of the Discworld novels the year I graduated from college. I’ve watched as the…

I gave at the office?

Today I had an interesting insight. When I work in an office setting I tend to do what other people need me to do. When I work at home I tend to work on what I need me to do. Now, before you think, “Yah, I hate the office,” please notice the key word, need….

Unpacking Gateway

I’ve been saying for a while the society of The Valleys is not as idyllic as it’s seemed up to this point. “Gateway” is the first inclination of this darker reality. Let’s unpack some of the more interesting bits. The political situation Jeremy has arrived at a time in which the same societal forces which…

Fiction Tuesday – Gateway

As they approached the opposite side of the bridge, a uniformed man emerged from a near by guardhouse and indicated for the party to halt. “State your business.” Ama responded first, “Healer Ama, from Water Gap. I’m traveling to the Ravine on a matter of some urgency.” The man nodded. Then glanced at Walter and…

Crossing Bridges – Civic Duty

My recent post, “Crossing Bridges,” dealt with an encounter I had with some local Bridge Police after a photography session on the Tacony-Palmrya Bridge. The encounter was largely positive, as the officers professionally responded to a 911 call, but during our conversation some incorrect information about “what Homeland Security says” was passed on. Namely, that pictures…

Plussed out on 500px

About a week ago 500px ran a deal for people who wanted to sign up for their “plus” or “awesome” plans. I’d been interested in trying out 500px for some time, and $20 for a year of “plus” membership was quite a good deal, so I signed up. I didn’t like it. Now, I’ve…