Just about Anything, Education and Learning, Writing, Mental Health

Remembering James Ransone (Edward “Eddie” Kaspbrak)

A Tragic Loss Goodbye Edward “Eddie” Kaspbrak, known to the world as James Ransone. The talented actor, recognized for his many memorable film roles, has sadly passed away by suicide at the age of 46. He died by hanging on Friday, December 19, 2025. Personal Reflections and Empathy This loss feels deeply personal, even though… Continue reading Remembering James Ransone (Edward “Eddie” Kaspbrak)

Just about Anything, Education and Learning

The True Spirit of the Season: Love Over Gifts

What is truly important in this time of year, the season of giving, a season of joy and for myself, the reason for the season JESUS! All of look at this time of year differently, some absolutely hate this time of year over the sear reason that it’s a time of being forced to give… Continue reading The True Spirit of the Season: Love Over Gifts

Education and Learning, Just about Anything, myneedtolive, Writing

Lessons from Bob Cratchit: Financial Lessons for the Holidays

Are you a Scrooge or Cratchit? During this time of year we can all turn into a little of both, but examining Bob Cratchit for his money flaws and Scrooge as well we can all learn from this fictional characters especially durning the holidays and how we spend and save money.

Education and Learning, Just about Anything, Mental Health

Wrestling with Worth: Annual Reflections on Life, Faith, and Financial Struggle

Contemplating Life During the Holidays This has become an annual tradition in my "Giving Myself the Gift of Life" series. I have tweaked the name a little as the original name of the posts might cause alarm to those who read as these post discusses death and suicide. For those who are concerned about my… Continue reading Wrestling with Worth: Annual Reflections on Life, Faith, and Financial Struggle

Education and Learning, Just about Anything, Writing

Remembering Loved Ones: A Tribute to My Mother

Remembering My Mother, Linda There are certain people in our lives that make an impact that once gone, you truly never feel the same, for me that person was my mother Linda who passed December 9th, 2015, making this the tenth year without mom. Growing Up with Mom Growing up with mom, she was always… Continue reading Remembering Loved Ones: A Tribute to My Mother

Education and Learning, Just about Anything, Writing

Reflections on Teaching and Personal Legacy

My Journey as an Educator For those who may not know I am a professor and have been given the privilege of a teaching career part time by an incredible mentor by the name of Glenn Dunki-Jacobs, now retired.   Having the opportunity to teach business students from 2011-2019 name Mt. Sierra College before the… Continue reading Reflections on Teaching and Personal Legacy

Education and Learning, Just about Anything

Turning 46: Embracing Life’s Challenges and Blessings

Looking Back: Gratitude and Loss Today marks my 46th birthday. While I have never been one for grand celebrations, this day inevitably prompts me to reflect on the years that have passed. For nearly two decades—17 birthdays—I have been fortunate to celebrate with my wife, my daughter, and my sister. Yet, these occasions also remind… Continue reading Turning 46: Embracing Life’s Challenges and Blessings

Just about Anything

From Dreams to Regrets: A Journey of Life Choices

Looking Back: Unfulfilled Aspirations and the Weight of Regret Have you ever experienced a profound sense of sadness and disappointment when reflecting on your career, realizing that you have not accomplished what you initially set out to achieve? Perhaps your life's plan is centered around pursuing a particular profession, securing a certain job, or joining… Continue reading From Dreams to Regrets: A Journey of Life Choices

Just about Anything

Thankfulness in a Challenging World: A Personal Journey

Reflecting on Gratitude in Today's World Being thankful is not always easy, especially in our present world. Many of us tend to associate gratitude and thankfulness with the things we possess or lack. It's natural to compare ourselves to others, especially when the media often highlights those who have great wealth, while rarely showing those… Continue reading Thankfulness in a Challenging World: A Personal Journey

Just about Anything

Why Independent Authors Make Great Holiday Gifts

As the holiday season approaches, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who has taken the time to read my blogs and purchase my books. As both an enthusiastic reader and dedicated writer, it is truly rewarding to share my work with the world. With the tradition of gift giving upon us,… Continue reading Why Independent Authors Make Great Holiday Gifts

Bigfoot, Education and Learning, Just about Anything, Paranormal

Ghost Adventures: Uncovering Hollydale’s Secrets

Growing up in Southern California, there are a few places that I would consider truly haunted that many if any get to visit or explore. Having lived in the city of Downey and Los Angeles for most of my childhood and adultlife until 2018, there is one place that exists today partially that is truly… Continue reading Ghost Adventures: Uncovering Hollydale’s Secrets

Just about Anything

The Intersection of Business Success and Personal Growth

Decades ago in college, I have rememants of writting such in journals, notepads, paper scratch. This piece was written in an old journal from the year 2000, giving you a picture of my thinking at 20 years old. I felt I have always been a thinker, deep thought especially in college at the time as… Continue reading The Intersection of Business Success and Personal Growth

Just about Anything

Searching for Value in a Media Obessed World

The Nature of Uniqueness and Societal Value I would like to believe that each of us possesses innate gifts, abilities, and talents that make us unique and special. From a Christian perspective, God sees all of us as special, each person crafted in His image. Yet, it is difficult not to notice that some men… Continue reading Searching for Value in a Media Obessed World

Just about Anything

Why ‘A Shot in the Dark’ is Essential for Fans of ‘The POX’

Revisiting a Not-So-New Story It gives me great pleasure to introduce a NOT so NEW book, which may sound unusual at first. What does that mean exactly? “A Shot in the Dark,” releasing in January 2026, is actually the original version of my debut novel, “The POX,” which was published in 2023. What Sets This… Continue reading Why ‘A Shot in the Dark’ is Essential for Fans of ‘The POX’

Just about Anything

Runaway Shame: Breaking Free from Shame’s Grip

With only one month remaining until the release of my forthcoming memoir, "Runaway Shame," I am pleased to share insights into this deeply personal and candid work. The book explores the persistent shame that has accompanied me for many years—a weight that remains present despite ongoing efforts to overcome it, even amidst the love and… Continue reading Runaway Shame: Breaking Free from Shame’s Grip

Just about Anything

What 20 Years Taught Me: Life Lessons and Choices

Looking back, I realize that I often find myself dwelling on the past more than I should, especially when it comes to my life twenty years ago. The number “20 years” carries a certain weight and mystery—it stands out and instantly transports me to October 2005. That era, much like other periods in my life,… Continue reading What 20 Years Taught Me: Life Lessons and Choices

Just about Anything

Reflections on the Gaza Peace Deal, America’s Challenges, and the Need to Give Glory to God

For those who regularly read my posts, you may have noticed that I often discuss a wide range of topics. At times, I write with great passion, especially when I mention my books. Politics, however, is a subject I generally dislike. It often triggers strong emotions in me, largely because of the injustices I observe… Continue reading Reflections on the Gaza Peace Deal, America’s Challenges, and the Need to Give Glory to God

Education and Learning, Just about Anything, Mental Health, Writing

Discover My Journey in The Forgotten Son: Chapter 2

I am pleased to announce the forthcoming release of my autobiography, *The Forgotten Son: Chapter 2*, which will be available on October 31st. This book forms part of the broader work, *The Forgotten Son*, initially published in January. The Forgotten Son: Chapter 2 chronicles a pivotal period of my life following college, detailing my experiences… Continue reading Discover My Journey in The Forgotten Son: Chapter 2

Just about Anything

Overcoming Feelings of Inadequacy in Modern Society

Hopefully you don’t experience feelings of complete inadequacy like me. It doesn’t help that I struggle with depression, anxiety and imposter syndrome among other ailments. I tend to be one of those who has always looked and compared my life to those around me, despite not knowing the person, but where is particularly affects me… Continue reading Overcoming Feelings of Inadequacy in Modern Society

Just about Anything

Reflections on Morality, Division, and the Struggle for Compassion in America

As a person, a human, an American, not in necessary order, I was taught the importance of results for persons, to show kindness, be humble, so empathy for fellow man, women and child. I wasn’t necessarily taught to be proud of America, my veins don’t flow with red, white and blue, maybe red of course.… Continue reading Reflections on Morality, Division, and the Struggle for Compassion in America

Just about Anything

Celebrating 15 Years of Marriage: Our Journey Together

Today I celebrated 15 years of marriage to my beautiful wife Delia. It’s hard to imagine I have been married this long and at the same time it feels like a blink of an eye. My wife is such a hard worker, its apart of her DNA since I met her, even today as I… Continue reading Celebrating 15 Years of Marriage: Our Journey Together

Just about Anything

From Halloween to Doll Parts: Horror Inspirations That Shape My Novels

As we enter the autumn season, often associated with themes of mystery and suspense, I reflect on my long-standing appreciation for the horror genre. From a young age, I have drawn inspiration from classic films such as "Halloween," "The Exorcist," "Child’s Play," and "Nightmare on Elm Street." These influences, along with elements of crime, the… Continue reading From Halloween to Doll Parts: Horror Inspirations That Shape My Novels

Just about Anything

Thought Crime and Modern Day Oceania Dystopia We Live in Today

Modern Day Dystopian Society is here! Some may find it silly to compare books to modern day events and even history, but have found books foretelling of future events. A few of those books are those of Dystopian genres like George Orwell’s 1984 and Raymond Bradbury Fahrenheit 451. I am particularly drawn to Orwell for… Continue reading Thought Crime and Modern Day Oceania Dystopia We Live in Today

Just about Anything

Celebrating My 2nd Year Work Anniversary

Marking 2nd year work Anniversary with my current company, amazing how fast a year comes and go and it has been eventful year with lots to learn. I would like to think that after my last lay off in March 2023 I have been able to fully move on, but I have not. Although I… Continue reading Celebrating My 2nd Year Work Anniversary

Just about Anything

The Loss Of Our Rights Is Upon Us; Are you Ready?

First and foremost, that murder of any kind is wrong, regardless of how people justify their reasoning behind it. Due to recent events with the killing of Charlie Kirk, the MAGA conservative right-wing activist. Personally, I didn’t care for the person for variety of reasons, despite the fact that I am a Christian, his ideology… Continue reading The Loss Of Our Rights Is Upon Us; Are you Ready?

Just about Anything

Get Your Copy of ‘Doll Parts’ Now – New Release!

It gives me incredible pleasure announce my next novel named "Doll Parts", is now available at all major online book retailers in print and eBook. A book strangely I dreamt up the name first, originated and triggered by the song by Hole also named Doll Parts. This book is my first attempt at a crime… Continue reading Get Your Copy of ‘Doll Parts’ Now – New Release!

Just about Anything

Suicide Prevention Month: Why Your Voice Matters

For those who know me, for those who read my blogs, my books and just my writing, death and suicide are often a topic of discussion. It is certainly not a topic most like to talk about or even consider. I have had many breaking points in life, struggling with depression, anxiety, financial struggles, especially… Continue reading Suicide Prevention Month: Why Your Voice Matters

Just about Anything

Explore ‘Short Stories from a Child’s Mind’ – A New Book Release

I am pleased to announce the release of my newest book, “Short Stories from a Child’s Mind: The Collection,” now available through major online retailers including Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Notably, the book is also offered via bookshop.org, with each purchase supporting independent bookstores. This collection comprises short stories I wrote at age 12,… Continue reading Explore ‘Short Stories from a Child’s Mind’ – A New Book Release

Just about Anything

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of My Late Mother

Happy Birthday Mom (Linda Gutierrez), it has been always ten years since you have been with us, but you are missing every day. You would have been celebrating your 66th birthday today. Imagining we would be celebrating your birthday simply at your favorite restaurant, Olive Garden, you were simple like that no fancy restaurants and… Continue reading Celebrating the Life and Legacy of My Late Mother

Education and Learning, Just about Anything, Mental Health, Writing

Confronting Career and Financial Shame: My Journey

Shame is a prevalent part of my life each day, I wake up with shame and I go to sleep with shame, as one of the main themes in my life for years now which is one of the reasons I wrote Runaway, Shame, my memoir out December 1st, yes that is my shameless plug,… Continue reading Confronting Career and Financial Shame: My Journey

Just about Anything, Mental Health, Writing

The Voices in My Head

I often play conversations in my head, not sure if anyone does what you may say to a person at home, at work in various scenarios. I re-play words/conversations in my might regularly in how I am going to explain to my family one when I am no longer here. Sadly the only conversation I… Continue reading The Voices in My Head

Just about Anything, short-stories, Writing

Pre-Order Now: Short Story Collection and ‘Doll Parts’ Novel

I am pleased to announce the upcoming release of two distinct books, available on August 30th and September 7th. August 30, 2025 The first is a curated collection of short stories, originally written during my early adolescence. These works span various genres—including horror, fantasy, and whimsical fiction—and reflect influences from film and other sources. Each… Continue reading Pre-Order Now: Short Story Collection and ‘Doll Parts’ Novel

Just about Anything

Exposure: The Secret Sins of The Rich, Famous and Everyday Man.

Why is society so surprised with the debauchery of men and women, thinking at this exact moment of Trump and Epstein. Epstein a wealthy financier and sex offender, yet society seems so alarmed that Trump was a friend of his, the proof is in the pudding at they say, there are receipts of their friendships,… Continue reading Exposure: The Secret Sins of The Rich, Famous and Everyday Man.

Just about Anything

Overcoming Financial Turmoil: Personal Reflections

It is said “Money makes the world turn”, which is a true statement in my opinion as for most of humanity, we need money to survive, to live, to eat, to have a sense of peace in our life. I would like to believe that most humans just want to be able to keep the… Continue reading Overcoming Financial Turmoil: Personal Reflections

Education and Learning, Just about Anything, myneedtolive, myneedtolive, Writing

Overcoming Adversity: How Second Chances Change Lives

Second chances are always appreciated in our lives whether it’s a second chance at a relationship or a career or to rebuild. I can honestly say I have gotten a few second chances in life especially after my Suicide attempt in 2007. At that point in my life which I was in my mid-twenties I… Continue reading Overcoming Adversity: How Second Chances Change Lives

Just about Anything

Exploring Grief: Suicide in Reservation Dogs and The Bear

The aftermath of Suicide is well displayed in media if you have ever watched the television series “Reservation Dogs” and “The Bear” where two the characters the television series center around is where Daniel reflecting the high rates of suicide in Indigenous communities. Whereas Mikey in the Bear also commits suicide which sets the tone… Continue reading Exploring Grief: Suicide in Reservation Dogs and The Bear

Just about Anything

Honoring Lost Friends: A Tribute to Misty McKirerman Quintana

The author reflects on their high school years, exploring memories filled with both joy and heartbreak. They reminisce about unreciprocated crushes, friendships, and the lingering memory of Misty, a girl they regret not appreciating. Misty's untimely death at 23 prompts a profound contemplation on life, loss, and the importance of remembrance.

Just about Anything

Fear in New Amerika on Her Birthday

Happy Birthday America, for many Americans this is a day of celebration, of rest and to remember that our country only 250 years old is still a baby. Those who say well America is becoming a sh*t hole especially in the world of politics as the President of the United States has made it clear… Continue reading Fear in New Amerika on Her Birthday

Just about Anything

Overcoming Adversity: A Personal Reflection on Self-Discovery

Do you ever ask yourself, “What the hell happened to my life?”, “How did I end up here?”, which can relate to many areas in one’s life such as a one’s personal life, finances, career and the list goes one. For me I constantly question my life on my choices. Although I can’t remember exactly,… Continue reading Overcoming Adversity: A Personal Reflection on Self-Discovery

Education and Learning, Just about Anything, Political

Empathy for Undocumented Migrants: A Personal Perspective

I don’t know why, but as of late I have been emotional and not just because of my natural depression that is with me all the time, or my financial struggles but the state of country.  As the husband of a legal U.S. Citizen born and raised in El Salvador. Before meeting my wife, I… Continue reading Empathy for Undocumented Migrants: A Personal Perspective

Just about Anything

Triggered: My Blogging Journey and Book Release

The written word holds significant meaning, and since 2019, I have dedicated myself to my books and blog with great passion. I live blog life, an incredible network of individuals who write with heartfelt dedication each day. Starting my blog has afforded me the opportunity to express myself freely, without being constrained by concerns about… Continue reading Triggered: My Blogging Journey and Book Release

Just about Anything

Autobiography Release: The Forgotten Son Chapter One

The Forgotten Son: Chapter One is now available. This autobiography covers my life from birth to adolescence and was released on Father’s Day. Inspired by the original, larger book that was published in January, this version is designed to be more digestible. The book serves as a heritage for my daughter, wife, and family, including… Continue reading Autobiography Release: The Forgotten Son Chapter One

Education and Learning, Just about Anything, Mental Health, Writing

Reflections on Fatherhood: A Complex Journey

As a father celebrates Father’s Day, it can be complicated but not in the way one would think. You see of course, I grew up with my own father who is still living today named Moses. My own mother and father divorced when I was about five years old and my sister about three years… Continue reading Reflections on Fatherhood: A Complex Journey

Just about Anything

The Danger of Losing Humanity in a Time of Control

In today’s world, fear is a point that many may fail to recognize. People feel helpless and like they do not belong. This is true regardless of whether you were born here or not. Ultimately, it is about control. Even if you were not born in the Good Ole’ USA, you might feel unsecure about… Continue reading The Danger of Losing Humanity in a Time of Control

Just about Anything

Marching for Rights: Protests and Social Issues in California

The author discusses the ongoing ICE protests in Los Angeles, reflecting on their personal connection to the city. They argue that while migrants contribute significantly to California's economy, they face scrutiny and violence. The author criticizes the double standards in responses to protests, highlighting issues of crime and the treatment of undocumented workers.

Just about Anything

Exploring Life After Death in ‘The Whisper’ and Other Tales

The author reflects on their passion for storytelling and the profound connection between writing and self-expressions, sharing updates on recent publications like "The Stricken" and the upcoming paranormal book "The Whisper." They emphasize a commitment to honoring indigenous cultures in their non-fiction work about the Yaqui and O’odham tribes while expressing gratitude for their readers.

Education and Learning, Just about Anything, Mental Health, Writing

Rediscovering Your Life’s Light

The author reflects on feeling a loss of personal joy despite loving their family. They reminisce about brighter times and battle inner turmoil, believing their own value is diminishing. Writing serves as an escape and a legacy, while they grapple with life's challenges and existential thoughts about significance and worth.

Just about Anything

My New Book on Circus Oddities Launching September 23rd

I am pleased to announce the release of my new book, "Freaks: Life in the Circus, from Yesterday to Today" on September 23rd. This publication is inspired by my blog series of the same name, wherein I explored the lives of extraordinary individuals often referred to as freaks or sideshow performers. With a profound appreciation… Continue reading My New Book on Circus Oddities Launching September 23rd

Just about Anything

Remembering Fallen Heroes: Paul Hein’s Vietnam Story

In honor of Memorial Day and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice to our country, it is fitting to recognize Paul Hein. Paul, a Vietnam veteran assigned to company A, 2/48th infantry, 3rd Brigade, 10th Infantry Division, enlisted instead of waiting to be drafted. Although Paul did not die in the war, many of his… Continue reading Remembering Fallen Heroes: Paul Hein’s Vietnam Story