On Resilience, Batman Costumes, Other Things

Consider this first bit a self-pep talk.

I would like to thank everyone who read and/or commented on "Reciprocity". As a fledgling writer, I receive no greater boost than knowing that someone reads my stuff. The positive nods are just a bonus. Thank you.

There is a lesson in that story that I need to remember as a fledgling writer. I'd received five rejections before landing it with The Battered Suitcase. What if I gave up? Sometimes, being resilient is the most difficult of all choices, but it is the only choice that matters.

Part two: the Halloween Costumes.

I may need to consult Carrie Harris on this (if we have any Batman eyebrow issues): the whole fam is dressing as characters from Batman. Yep. Owen (5) will be the caped crusader, Max (2) will be Robin, Aimee will be Bat-Woman, and me...Alfred, the butler.

Yes, Alfred, Bruce Wayne's butler. You should see the bow tie...in fact, I'll make sure to post some pictures.

Finally, a movie rec:

Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist is go. I remember all those cheese ball John Hughes movies from the 80s, and will admit, under interrogation, that I enjoyed most. Michael Cera is this generation's John Cusak (remember Say Anything?). Now, if I could just go to the movies without seeing my students...hurm.

A Pocketknife and a Really Big Fish

September Publication Updates:

My short story, "Reciprocity", is up at The Battered Suitcase. It's a strange little jaunt about a boy finding himself and then finding himself underwater, drowning in a car. I played around with the chronology of events a bit in this one. I guess I'd have to call it magical realism...I guess.

In addition, "Scott Sullivan's Pocketknife", definitely my most realistic (and semi-autobiographical) story, is out in the inaugural issue of Soundings Review. Copies can be ordered via their website.

Enough shameless self-promotion...