I rewrote this Bio because the first I wrote was nice; just a little too nice. You have taken the time to read this, so I appreciate your time and want this to be as accurate as possible.
I grew up in a small suburban town in Western Mass which was more akin to the Berkshire hills, overgrown with trees, fields of high grass and streams at that time. When not taking care of my brother, I spent time hiking the countryside with my black lab ‘Lobo’ alongside me or riding my motorcycle out into the fields and woods. This reflective Time Off is important to me to this day.
My most recent book is just a short memoir of all I could do as a Paramedic in a small city. But to know me, I need to address the roles of Brother and Paramedic separately. For all the siblings of Disabled brothers and sisters, who put your heart and soul into learning how to care for them; take time away and care for yourself too. Filling that role, no one can really understand the focus, dedication, or the frustration. I could be the nicest guy on earth or the angriest; but that's understandable, and don't let anyone tell you it is not. I was committed, responsible, dependable, honest, truthful, filled with integrity and I am proud of that...but it wasn't always enough.
For all the Medics out there and working Dads trying to make everyone happy and follow the rules (which change daily), give yourself a break; because the fact is no one is going to remember; only you and those above (I don't mean your boss). This work is a mission, and I didn't realize that until years later. Work life balance was never discussed back in my younger days. Thankfully, I did prioritize being a husband and a parent, always dedicating time to those; but it's never perfect.
I have been oil painting since I was seventeen - seascapes, landscapes and still-life painting, whatever is good. Hang 'em, share 'em, sell or scrap 'em; it's the simplicity of studying what's good in life that we have been given. Exploring the world while we can, is an opportunity we can’t miss.
Lastly, I like to hear from my readers; especially if there is some resounding thought, or experience that we can share. To me, that is another important function of writing - not just telling a story, but to share experiences with a purpose, that is meaningful today.