Author: John W. Howell

I have been working in business for over forty years and now have the time to work in special areas of interest. My passion has always been to create compelling stories of fiction. I have authored six novels and am working on my Seventh. The first novel is still in manuscript form and being utilized as a door stop in the laundry room. The second is a contemporary fiction novel of 89,000 words and is complete and I am currently seeking a publisher. I also write poetry but have not had the guts to share any with anyone. The one time I read a piece to a person their only comment was, “it doesn’t rhyme.” I will continue to write and hopefully my blog, Fiction Favorites at www.johnwhowell.com will provide some entertainment and an interesting thought or two. I live in the Austin area with my wife Molly and an assortment of loving pets.

Tuesday – Anything Possible – Kreative Kue #328 by Keith Channing

September 14, 2021September 13, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 61 Comments

In Keith’s words, “Using this photo (below)as inspiration, write a short story, flash fiction, scene, poem; anything, really; even just a caption for the photograph. Either put it (or a link to it) in a comment or email it to me at keithchanning@gmail.com before 6pm next Sunday (if you aren’t sure what the time is where I live, this link will tell you). If you post it on your own blog or site, a link to this page would be appreciated, but please do also mention it in a comment here.

Go on. You know you want to. Let your creativity and imagination soar. I shall display the entries next Monday.”

“Should we bother him?”

“I’m not sure. Looks like his mind is a million miles away.”

“That’s what I thought. If we try to get his attention he might have a heart attack.”

“We will have to interrupt his reverie sooner of later.”

“Why? We can just go somewhere else.”

“I don’t think that’s a great idea. I don’t know where else to go.”

“We could keep driving until we see someone dressed like him.”

“That could be a hundred miles. We need to be home by lunchtime.”

“Why’s that?”

“The guy from the Audubon society is going to meet us there remember?”

“Oh yeah. You are making a big donation.”

“Well, birds are our our friends.”

“What about this one?”

“I think it belongs to that guy.”

“How do you know?”

“He’s got hawk protection for his hands. Look at the symbol on his jacket. It screams hawk.”

“I must say he even looks like a hawk. Okay let’s go tell him his bird is with us.”

“Don’t tell him about the pupachino at Starbucks. Not sure he would like the fact we got one for his bird.”

“I think it would be wise not to mention the blueberry scone either.”

“I think you’re right.”

“What should we say when he asks how we came to have his hawk?”

“I’d go with the bird was hitchhiking and we picked it up.”

“He’s not going to believe that.”

“Maybe the truth then?”

” When you called to it and it flew in the house sounds like a fairy tale.”

“That’s why I like the hitchhike story. Any way it doesn’t matter we will get the hawk back to it’s rightful owner.”

“We hope.”

“Look at the hawk. It’s shaking it’s head.”

“I think he wants to stay with us.”

“He’s nodding.”

“One question.”

“Yeah?”

“Where did this bird learn English?”

“Let’s ask him when we get home.”

“I wonder if he’s potty trained.”

“He’s nodding yes.”

“Does Polly want a cracker?”

“He’s not a parriot.”

“I still think he wants a cracker.”

“And ruin his lunch? No way.”

Smorgasbord Short Stories – Authors in the Sun – #Blackmail- The Millennial by John W. Howell

September 13, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 24 Comments

I am at Sally G. Cronin’s place today. She is featuring short stories and graciously allowed me to tell one. A visit to Sally is always special. Head over and check out how you can benefit from the many ways Sally promotes indie authors.

Smorgasbord Blog Magazine

When I worked on radio in the south of Spain I presented and recorded four series of Authors in the Sun showcasing local writers and their short stories. I ran a series here on the blog in 2017 which was much enjoyed and showed off the skills of some amazing writers.

I would love to share your short stories here too this summer and details of how you can participate is at the end of the post.

The Millennial by John W. Howell

He sits at the counter eating what passes for oatmeal with an eye on his iPhone sitting next to the coffee cup. She said this was the day to talk, and the damn phone always rings twice and then to voicemail. He took it into the Apple Store, and they said they found nothing wrong. So today, he’s not taking chances. He will see the bright light…

View original post 1,141 more words

The Top Ten Things Not to Do While Working Outdoors

September 13, 2021September 12, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 88 Comments

This post originally ran on September 15th, 2014. Seems like it is still good advice today. I hope you enjoy it.

***

It’s that time of the year again when certain outdoor chores have to be done in preparation for the coming change of seasons. The weather is finally turning a little cooler, so the projects put off because of the heat can now be done. This list has been inspired by the times I have not paid attention to the Top Ten Things Not to do While Doing Outdoor Work.

The Top Ten Things Not to Do While Working Outdoors

10 If you need to fix or waterproof your outdoor deck, do not start the work after noon. If you do, at best you will have to work past dinner. At worst, you will quit the project only to find yourself doing the work in the snow.

9 If you need to go up on a ladder for anything, do not ask your spouse to spot you at the bottom of the ladder. At best, you may drop a tool that will be regrettable. At worst, your spouse may find themselves breaking your fall, which will be unforgivable.

8 If you need to use a power tool, do not forget the safety glasses. If you do, at best, you may get some debris in your eye. At worst, you might just get an exciting ride to the emergency room for significant eye repair.

7 If you need to use a chainsaw, do not try to saw off anything over your head. If you do, at best, you may not be able to avoid a falling limb. At worst, you may find yourself trying to avoid a swinging chainsaw running at full speed.

6 If you need to paint anything, do not think a spray gun is a way to go if you have no experience. If you do, at best, you may find the job harder than you expected. At worst, you may have covered the trees, shrubs, and your car with the beautiful coral shade you are using.

5 If you decide to rent any kind of machinery to do your work, do not fail to read the directions. If you do forget or decide to ignore them, at best, you may cause the machine to break down. At worst, you may find yourself and your machine in the living room when you actually intended to work on the driveway.

4 If you need to use any kind of grease on your project, do not fail to take off your shoes before entering the house. If you do forget, at best, you might only have one small piece on your shoe. At worst, you will have walked all the way through the snow-white living room before you notice your tracks and hear the sound of a gun being cocked.

3 If you intend to fix any plumbing, do not forget to turn off the water. If you do forget, at best, you will get a face full and be drenched before you go and turn it off. At worst, you will wish you had built an ark before beginning the work and are now watching your belongings wash down the street.

2 If your project includes electrical work, do not forget to turn off the electricity to the item you are working on. If you do forget, at best, you will cause some sparks and then go turn it off. At worst, you will cause an arc of electricity that will melt the tool you are using and permanently clear your sinus while providing you with a full-body hair removal treatment.

1 If you decide to dig in the yard to plant those big trees, do not forget to call the utilities to find out where all the lines are buried. If you do forget, at best, you may accidentally cut your neighbor’s cable, and they are a work-at-home IRS agent. At worst, you may cut more important lines and assume you survive you will be fighting the outage charges for the rest of your life.

Views of the Neighborhood – Lakeway Garage Sale at the Activity Center.

September 12, 2021September 11, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 94 Comments

We are going to go and hunt for bargains today. The bus is taking us to the Activity Center, where the Lakeway Garage sale is being held. The sale is from 8:00 to 12:00, so we will have brunch after we’ve seen the sights. Today’s brunch is being catered by Elizabeth Street Cafe. Our entertainment is Pink.

Brunch Menu

E L I Z A B E T H S T R E E T F R I E D R I C E
Grilled Ribeye or Crispy Fried Redfish,
Bonito Flake, Spicy Caramel

S I N G A P O R E N O O D L E S
Stir-Fried Pork, Fresno Peppers, Fried
Egg, Madras Curry, Watercress

P O R K & S H R I M P C R Ê P E
Coconut & Rice Batter, Bean Sprouts,
Herbs, Lettuces Wraps, Nuoc Cham

R E D C U R R Y DAN DAN N O O D L E S
Spice Brined Chicken, Baby Bok Choy,
Sprouts, Thai Basil, Fried Garlic

N U T E L L A & B A N A N A S T U F F E D C R Ê P E
Whipped Crème Fraiche, Candied Hazelnuts

H O U S E B A K E D B R I O C H E F R E N C H T OA S T
Sweetened Condensed Milk Ice Cream,
Blueberry Thai Basil Compote, Brown Butter Syrup

R OA S T E D P O R K & W O O D E A R M U S H R O O M
O M E L E T T E Mango, Cucumber, Basil, Crispy Shallots

Top Shelf cocktails, wine, beer

So, get on the bus.

Here we are at the Lakeway Activities Center.

There are ceramics.

Records.

Aisles of stuff.

More around the corner.

Totes, boxes, and people. The bag to the right says, “Life is Better in Flipflops.”

There are some now.

Treasures.

Furniture.

Aw.

American Flyer and Kraft shortening.

Lots of traffic today.

Well, that’s about it. Have some brunch, relax, and listen to Pink.

Stream of Consciousness Saturday – Prompt – Where

September 11, 2021September 10, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 56 Comments

Today’s prompt. Your Friday prompt for Stream of Consciousness Saturday is “where.” Use it any way you’d like.

Thinking of where I was 20 years ago today, the memories came back in waves. The producer and I were helping set up a fundraising dinner and night of entertainment. This was an event put on every year to benefit children’s charities in San Antonio. We had moved to Texas in 2000 and were volunteers for one of the charities.

In the morning, we were in the process of setting up the dining tables, and slowly the recognition that the Twin Towers and the Pentagon had been hit by an airplane became clear. The news was very spotty, but eventually, it was decided to cancel the event. This was no small decision since this one night pretty much supplied additional necessary operating funding for the charities for a year. It was only after returning home did the magnitude of 9/11 become apparent. Even though I was off for the day, I got a call to come into the office for an emergency meeting, so more time was spent away from knowing the total devistation of the situation.

That night all the information came together, and I’ll never forget the feeling of sadness for those at the Twin Towers, the first responders, those at the Pentagon, and the passengers and crews of the four airplanes used as weapons. Since that time, these attacks have taken their toll on the survivors and those tasked with the twenty-year fight that followed. It is sad to see the people who supported and aided this tragedy are now back in control of Afghanistan. I have to hope that our government never recognizes this regime as legitimate. Denial of the recognition that the Taliban desperately wants would be a real way to honor those who gave their lives in the fight against terrorism.

If you want to participate in Stream of Consciousness Saturday, visit Linda Hill’s blog and read how easy it is. Here is the link https://lindaghill.com/2021/09/10/the-friday-reminder-and-prompt-for-socs-sept-11-2021/

Friday JohnKu – AKA – TGIF

September 10, 2021September 9, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 78 Comments

“Okay, Lucy. Now explain this again.”
“It’s the sun coming through the living room windows to the porch.”
“You know how crazy that sounds, right?”
“I guess, but it’s true.”

It is Friday again. Yahoo. We can all use a Friday. This was a short week given the holiday on Monday. So, here we are, ready for a weekend.

I’m so glad football season is finally here. Since I have a tough time getting the Steeler broadcasts here in Texas, I have to be satisfied with the college team broadcasts that come our way. So I hunt down Notre Dame, West Virginia University, Michigan State, and Baylor. Those are the places where we went or sent money. I guess I’m pretty lucky to have such a choice.

COVID cases are at the highest level since March. I’m wearing my mask and will be getting a booster as soon as I figure out where to go and when. The information on boosters is very sporadic. The White House set up some additional vaccination mandates covering areas that the Fed can control. In addition, businesses with 100 or more employees need to have all employees vaccinated or tested. OSHA will do the policing for the mandate. States are likely going to challenge the mandate as it relates to business requirements.

Here is a list and link to all the California wildfires. We have to keep praying for some relief. The good news is the Dixie, and Caldor fires are over 50 % contained but more needs to be done. Sadly a firefighter from the Dixie fire succumbed to illness. (no other details)

The Taliban released a flight with about 30 Americans and 170 others on Thursday. This was the first release of stranded citizens and friends since August 31st. Let’s hope it is the beginning of 100% success for those who want to leave. Let’s also hope that this release came without paying a ransom. (no one is talking about that right now)

Today’s JohnKu talks about keeping positive. I hope you all have a great weekend.

Who controls your mood?

Directing positive or not . . .

Look in a mirror.

Thursday – A Little Personal – The Water Buffalo and The Puma

September 9, 2021September 8, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 92 Comments

“Hey, Lucy. How about a game of tug-o-war?”

“Oh, I don’t know. I was thinking of something rougher.”

“Like the puma takes the water buffalo by surprise?”

“Yeah, and the water buffalo prepares a defense.”

“There is no defense as the puma goes for the soft underbelly.”

“Which the water buffalo protects with sharp hooves.”

“The puma withdraws momentarily for another attack.”

“The water buffalo pummels the puma senseless.”

“The puna stikes again and this times hits paydirt.”

“The water buffalo gives the puma a whack with a powerful leg.”

“The puma is impervious to the pain.”

“The water buffalo uses her secret body hold.”

“Which the puma breaks in a second.”

“The water buffalo prepares for the final blow.”

“The puma rises up for the last attack.”

“The water buffalo is ready and deploys her jet black horns.”

“That was a good fantasy. Sure you don’t want to play tug-o-war?”

“Nope, I’m good.”

“If you want to play water buffalo and puma later, I’m willing.”

“I’ll be honest. Those fantasy’s wear me out.”

“I know what you mean. I think I’ll just chill with this tuggy.

A New Book – War of Nytefall – Anarchy by Charles E. Yallowitz Now 99¢

September 8, 2021September 4, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 48 Comments

As the vampires battle in the shadows, a new enemy appears to drag them into the light!

The paladins of Windemere have had enough!

As the Vampire Civil War heats up, mysterious murders are being committed against members of every holy order. All signs point to the culprits being vampires, which has resulted in the creation of a unified paladin army. To protect his people, Clyde must find the killers before the holy warriors unleash their purifying crusade. It is a battle against frustrating obstacles as the war inches closer to mortal civilization and ambitious new allies join Nytefall.

One slip is all that is needed for the secret of the Dawn Fangs to be revealed.

Curiosity piqued? Check out this teaser!

The urge to move faster nearly overtakes Lost’s common sense, but she reminds herself that adults are supposed to be patient. As if her mind is trying to undermine her actions, she is on the verge of whistling the first tune that slips into her thoughts. Sucking in her lips, the Dawn Fang pierces them with her fangs to stop them from causing trouble. The pain makes her eyes water and she squishes mud in her hands to hold back a scream. Reaching out with her telepathy, she tries to locate her targets while she lets her unfocused thoughts run their course. A distant prayer to Ram the War God causes her to change her direction and she takes a deep breath to regain her composure. With the paladins so far away, Lost moves a little faster, but stops short of giving in to her silly, impatient urges. Seeing the edge of the tall grass, she drops again and uses her elbows to pull herself along like she remembers seeing Titus do on several missions. As she comes out of her cover, the bright sun blinds her, so she is unable to stop herself from banging into something metal, which falls onto her back.

“Get off of me!” Lost shouts before telekinetically hurling the object into the river. She scrambles to her feet and freezes at the sight of six paladins standing in her path. “Such shiny and pretty armors, you have here. I really like the guy with the big helmet. Is that an ostrich feather? I keep meaning to ride one of those again. So, nice day for a walk. This is bunny who is totally unable to fly. That’s why he’s on my head. Your friend seems okay, so there’s absolutely no reason for us to spend any more time together. Bye!”

“You must be Lost,” Lord Adam says through his great helm. He takes a step forward and holds out a diamond fused to a bronze chain. “We are well aware of you and your abilities, monster. That is why I travel with this. None of your mind tricks will work on those who stand in my presence. Even your keen senses are tricked by the spells designed specifically to thwart your actions. Be honored that we went to so much trouble to design items with you in mind. No other Dawn Fang has earned so much individual attention.”

“That’s kind of creepy,” she replies as she steps back. Seeing weapons getting drawn, she stops retreating and playfully slaps at the mud with her bare feet. “Needed to wash some gunk out from between my toesies. Well, this is awkward. You brought me such a pretty present and I don’t have anything for you. Bunny says that I need to work on my manners. There’s really no need for violence. Dawn Fangs are mostly good. Just like mortals, we have some bad ones, but we’re all individuals like all of you. I mean, we all eat soup the same way, right? I really hope you all use spoons for that comparison to work.”

“Abominations such as you-” the paladin begins to announce.

“Look at the naked heretic!” she shouts while pointing into the distance.

All of the holy warriors, except for Lord Adam, turn to see what Lost is gesturing at, so she flings mud at their leader’s helmet grating. The man coughs and hacks as the Dawn Fang sprints back to the river and launches herself to the other side. A quake meets her as she lands and she nearly topples onto her side, but manages to stumble along. Glancing over her shoulder, she does not see any of the paladins in pursuit and considers slowing down to get her bearings. Lost’s eyes go wide when she sees the powerful steeds rise into the air, arch over the river, and land in a perfect line that immediately charges ahead. The open plains allow the warriors to move at full speed, which is only slightly slower than the sprinting Dawn Fang. They hurl spells and glowing weapons, which return to their hands, but the attacks never hit their mark. Those that come close are deflected by a telekinetic shield, which repeatedly shatters upon impact thanks to Lord Adam’s diamond weakening her even from a distance. With the relic defending the paladins’ minds and muffling their hoofbeats, she has to repeatedly look over her shoulder to make sure none of them have disappeared. To her relief, they never break formation and she gets a sense of their attack pattern, which never falters.

Get a copy of this vampire action adventure for
99 cents on Amazon!
Help spread the word by adding it on Goodreads!

*****

Want to catch up on War of Nytefall?Grab the volumes 1-6 for 99 cents each ($6 total)!

Interested in more Windemere? Then don’t forget to check out Charles E. Yallowitz’s first series: Legends of Windemere

About the Author:

Charles Yallowitz was born and raised on Long Island, NY, but he has spent most of his life wandering his own imagination in a blissful haze. Occasionally, he would return from this world for the necessities such as food, showers, and Saturday morning cartoons. One day he returned from his imagination and decided he would share his stories with the world. After spending many years fiddling with his thoughts and notebooks, he decided that it was time to follow his dream of being a fantasy author. So, locked within the house with only pizza and seltzer to sustain him, Charles brings you tales from the world of Windemere. He looks forward to sharing all of his stories with you and drawing you into a world of magic.

Blog: www.legendsofwindemere.com
Twitter: @cyallowitz
Facebook: Charles Yallowitz
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cyallowitz/

Enjoy the fang-filled adventure by clicking here!

Tuesday – Anything Possible – Kreative Kue # 328 by Keith Channing

September 7, 2021September 6, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 56 Comments

In Keith’s words. “Using this photo (below) as inspiration, write a short story, flash fiction, scene, poem; anything, really; even just a caption for the photograph. Either put it (or a link to it) in a comment or email it to me at keithchanning@gmail.com before 6pm next Sunday (if you aren’t sure what the time is where I live, this link will tell you). If you post it on your own blog or site, a link to this page would be appreciated, but please do also mention it in a comment here.

Go on. You know you want to. Let your creativity and imagination soar. I shall display the entries next Monday.”

The Photo

“Are you sure we want to do this?”

“You heard the man back there. We need to pass the test of courage.”

“Yeah, but it seems like a risk.”

“Do you really think they would do something to harms us? This is a fake.”

“A fake? It sure looks real to me. What’s that guy doing over there.”

“I’m not sure. Why don’t you ask. You are closer.”

“Yeah, by two feet. Not sure I want to know.”

“Oh, very well. Sir. Yes, you, sir. What are you doing?”

“I’m trying to reach my wife.”

“Your wife?”

“Yes, she took the same steps you are about to take and disappeared.”

“Oh my goodness. Blanch, don’t put your foot down. In fact, don’t move a muscle.”

“Okay. I’m not moving.”

“Did you hear that, man? His wife disappeared doing this stupid test.”

“I heard, and I, for one, am not going to do it. What’s the matter with those people back there anyway?”

“I’m sure I don’t know. You’d think you could trust a greeter, right?”

“I thought something was off the way he cackled after he told us we couldn’t come into the store without passing the courage test.”

“I think it would have been wiser for us just to wear a mask, don’t you?”

“The sign said it is voluntary.”

“Obviously, the greeter doesn’t think so.”

“Let’s go to Target.”

Top Ten Things Not to Do on Labor Day

September 6, 2021September 5, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 73 Comments

This post ran on Labor Day 2015. I thought it was pretty good advice, so here it is again.

***

In honor of Labor Day, I’ve decided to boil the top ten list down to the most important items. Let’s all remember those who make our lives easier and more pleasant. Of course, the remembrance includes we authors.

Top Ten Things Not to do on Labor Day

10 through 1

On Labor Day, have fun but do not drink and drive. If you do, at best, you are a fool. At worst, you could hurt or kill an innocent person, not to mention your guilty self.

Happy Labor Day, all.