Born in North Jersey I was an awkward, scrawny kid with holey pants, hand-me-down toys and big dreams. My mother was all I could ever ask for, she was loving, understanding and hardworking. Providing for her family the best she could, since my father saw greener grass in another woman's yard. My older brother was as close to a stranger as was possible for someone sharing a bed room. My sister and I spent time together, but we too were distant and wouldn't build a relationship until many years later. My one and only friend, Rich, was as daring and fearless as I was and we had no problem finding ways to wreck bicycles and our bodies. We were inseparable during the summer and into the fall, but then, school began and with it bought the excitement of new opportunities and new friends. The former, it seamed, was more hopeful thinking than potential. I was intrigued by the idea of being popular, or at least, not being overlooked. Each time I was invited to hangout with a group of my peers, I jumped at the chance, completely aware that the same bullies waited for me behind the baseball dugout, or the rear of the school or out past the play ground. I wasn't being overlooked anymore, and yes, in case you are wondering, it was worth the bruises and fat lips. Fourth grade has no pity for the soft and no tolerance for the weak. I started my Fifth grade school year in Pennsylvania at a military style boarding school and I grew up quickly, both physically and mentally. I evolved from a short, skinny target for bullies into a large confident teenager with a quick wit and an even quicker fists. I was no longer a target, but rather I became a bully deterrent for others in my class. It was then that I found my fame and I believed it was fame worth having. Fast-Forward 30 plus years... I am married to the love of my life and have two amazing kids, a five year old and a 10 month old. All I know about being a good man, husband and father, comes not so much from the examples of those that came before me, but instead, the lack thereof. I pray that I can be used as an inspiration to others with my books and stories of people and situations that I have witnessed with my own eyes, with a little creative license and discretion thrown in for good measure. God Bless and enjoy.
