So I had been planning on getting back on Twitter recently, but right after I made the decision the company was bought by Elon Musk. At first, I didn’t care one way or another about it and decided to wait a bit and see what happened. My backup plan was to move to Mastodon, which…
Review – Dark Matter [Books]
Earlier this year, I was looking for a new short story collection to read. I’ve been trying to expand outside of the usual speculative fiction arena and read authors from other cultures, ethnicities, and genders. I feel it allows me insight into others that I might not otherwise have. I’ve already read speculative fiction collections…
Reading for a Longer Life [Books]
I recently stumbled upon a study conducted by Yale University’s School of Public Health that found a link between reading and longer life spans. The study, conducted over twenty-plus years, found that, “Compared to non-book readers, book readers had a 23-month survival advantage…” I find that fascinating. This goes to show the importance of reading….
Experimenting with Landscapes [Painting]
It’s no secret I love nature, whether it’s spending time with the plants in my yard or hiking through the local nature preserves and parks. Nature speaks to me. It reinvigorates me. That’s why I’ve been experimenting with landscape painting. It’s not only a way to pay homage to the natural settings I love so…
Review – Elric of Melniboné: The Elric Saga Part 1 [Books]
Elric of Melniboné is a difficult character to describe, but I find him fascinating. First appearing in print back in 1961, Elric was immediately described as an anti-hero. I don’t disagree, but author Michael Moorcock created a character far more complex than a simple anti-hero. And he built a multi-verse that is both beautiful and terrifying. …
A Painting for Halloween [Painting]
For one of my favorite holidays, I thought I’d share a recent Halloween-themed painting I did. No, it’s not museum quality. Or even worthy of hanging on my refrigerator, but it was fun to do. Hope you have a happy Halloween! RB
Choosing a Book to Read [Books]
What are your criteria for choosing the next book to read? The question occurred to me the other day when I discovered a guide to navigating National Public Radio’s (NPR) Top 100 Science Fiction and Fantasy Books. It’s an interesting way to find something that appeals to my tastes. However, keep in mind the chart…
A Music Moment – King Crimson [Music]
When it comes to experimental progressive music, there aren’t many groups that can compete with King Crimson. Over the decades they’ve blended everything from classical, jazz, and folk, to electronic, industrial, and new wave. They’ve incorporated African rhythms, post-punk, minimalism, and free improvisation. While they are classified as a rock band, I think they are…
Building a Raised Garden Bed [Gardening]
I’ve always found gardening to be a creative exercise. Choosing what plants to put in the garden, which ones looks best together (or grow best together), and trying to keep them alive and thriving takes ingenuity and the ability to adapt. Over the past few years I’ve tried all sorts of different plants, both ornamental…
Back from Hiatus
So, I took a few months off from blogging and social media to take time to recharge and refocus. I felt that I was burning out, both personally and creatively. I put myself into self-imposed social media exile – no Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram – and I stepped away from most of my creative activities….