Hard Times and the Mule Died

Hard Times and the Mule Died is a collection of short essays concerning my life experiences growing up and living in a small central Texas community. Written over several years, most of the essays previously appeared as part of a weekly column for The Belton Journal.

This collection of essays describes the joys and challenges of growing up and living in a small central Texas community where my family's roots run deep for generations. The book spans childhood memories of the quiet fifties, the societal changes of the sixties, the humor of everyday events, and the peaks and valleys of growing older. I have attempted to chronicle the impact place and family have on each of us, especially those of us who have chosen to make our hometown our permanent place of residence. Hopefully each reader will find something of value, a few laughs, and a new perspective on life in small town America.

Wayne Carpenter is a native of Belton, Texas. For several years he wrote a weekly column for The Belton Journal entitled "Up Nolan Creek" about living in small-town Texas. He is a voracious reader, an avid motorcycle rider, and served for many years on the local city council.