Like many people my age, I was born a long time ago. More specifically, Oct. 22, 1954, in Oklahoma City. Although I share the same initials as another well-known personage, I was not born away in a manger.

Despite receiving the finest education my home state had to offer, I learned to read and write pretty well. I attended (and eventually graduated from) college with a degree in English. I later earned a degree in photojournalism.

I spent 10 years in daily journalism but when I realized that the only way to make money in newspapers is to be Rupert Murdoch, I jumped ship. Since then I’ve worked in a variety of writing and editing positions, including this blog, a weekly columnist for two daily Texas newspapers, a stint at a dot-com, an eternity as a curriculum producer, the head writer at a software startup, and editor at two Texas state agencies. I’ve written copy for people who sold furniture, tombstones and underwear online (different people), and was even approached to write an app about porn.

Like I said – a variety.

I’m married to author Liz Carmack. We live in Austin,Texas, and I blog (duh).

Frequently asked questions

What are your rates?

The quick answer is, it depends. I can charge by the word, by the job, or by the hour. I work with the client to determine how they can get the most bang for their buck.

Do you do editing?

Yes, I do. Here again, my rates are negotiable and competitive.

What do you consider your strong points?

I write copy that people will actually read. Anyone (almost) can string together a grammatically correct sentence; the question is, who wants to read it? I can take the driest and most arcane subject matter and render it accurately, succinctly and engagingly. I also pride myself in writing about people in a way that is both insightful and revealing.

I’m quick witted and funny. If I had a dollar for every time I’d made someone spew beer through their nose, I wouldn’t be writing this; I could afford to hire J.K. Rowling to do it for me.

I’m curious. I love to learn, and I love to share what I’ve learned.

I have a passion for and an encyclopedic knowledge of rock music. Modern Guitars Magazine asked me to be a correspondent after I brought to their attention an error about Jimi Hendrix on their website. I’m also a huge reggae fan.

Beatles or Stones?

Beatles – no contest.

I’m looking for someone who’s not all work and no play; do you have any other interests?

Indeed I do. As hinted at above, I love music. Rock is my first love, followed closely by roots reggae. I also like to read almost anything: literature, cop novels, non-fiction, history, cereal boxes, graffiti – you name it, I’ll read it.

I’m addicted to espresso. I have a hot-rodded Rancilio Silvia espresso machine and a Rancilio Rocky grinder.

I also like camping and all sorts of outdoor activities. I’m also interested in physical fitness, health and wellness. And I’m Buddhist.