Between the Lines . . . Behind the Scenes

Insights to REPLAYS, Writing, and Other Topics

After decades away, I return home to Jersey. Going back becomes a journey of rediscovery—of where I grew up, of an old friend, and of myself. For me, going back is moving forward.

I found the right place to write short stories about old friends and events that have replayed in my mind over decades. Things that just won't let go. While fictional, the stories contain many events that I experienced in whole or in part.

My stories come now because the passing years have provided perspective and freedom. Aging has brought me an appreciation for the life I have been lucky enough to live and for an awareness of what has mattered most and why. I wrote the book now because events remain vivid—but the clock goes tick-tock.

Hell, time ain't just passing tick-tock. Years blast by me like those rocket cars roaring to another land speed record at the Bonneville Salt Flats. The vehicle's wake moves me along without regard for my preferences. My efforts to brace and resist are futile. A trailing vortex stings with swirling salt.

Aging focuses me on the true value of time—time left—as the precious commodity it is. No dilly-dallying. A favorite question of mine: "How many beers do I have left?"