CURRENT MISSION

Europe in October/November

ABOUT ME

I live in Seattle and I'm looking forward to my first trip abroad in far too long. When I'm not working I write for pleasure, work in local theatrical productions as an actor and director and helping others achieve their artistic goals. Sometimes I teach creative writing classes and help other writers find their voices.

PHILOSOPHY

The most important tenet I have, especially that applies here, is judge not lest ye be judged. I grew up with a judgmental family and I managed to rise above that, so I find it very frustrating when I see people categorized or dismissed. Of course, we all do it to some degree or another, but I'm working on it.

Interests

I love historical museums and Seattle doesn't have enough of them. I love theater, film, reading, writing, chatting (I can talk your ear off if you get me started), drinking, walking and exploring.

• writing
• theater
• acting
• instructor
• walking
• drinking
• reading

Music, Movies, and Books

Books: I just recently discovered some good fantasy for the first time in what feels like forever. The Lies of Locke Lamora and The Name of the Wind. I just finished Blood Oath, about a Secret Service Vampire, which was a hoot. I like Stephen King, James Ellroy, Neil Gaiman, Garth Ennis and Bendis.

Movies: I just love 'em. Dumb comedies, good horror. Some favs include Aliens, Heat, Chasing Amy and Brick.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

The amazing things I remember the most tend to be small, quiet moments whose impact isn't revealed until long after the moment.

Teach, Learn, Share

I'm a creative writing instructor as a sideline. Here's a few easy things I can tell you.

ONE: People will tell you to do things the way THEY learned how, or how it works for them. Ignore these people. Creativity cannot be forced into boxes. If you have a method that works for you, keep at it.

TWO: Be arrogant. You have to know that what you're creating it worth sharing with people, or there's no point even starting. You have to know you are good (and how good you are) when you sit down to get started, or you don't need to start at all.

THREE: Know your limits. As note after the above point, if you're great, no one can make you a genius. If you're workmanly, you'll never be soulful. These are things that, like charisma, can't really be taught. If you're passionate about writing, learn where you should 'live'. That's not to say you can't improve, a writer can always get better, but you can't really earn or get more talent than you start out with.

Countries I’ve Visited

Belgium, Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom

Countries I’ve Lived In

Australia, New Zealand, United States

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