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.

Views of the Neighborhood – The Eight Wonders of Port Aransas

February 3, 2019February 2, 2019 ~ John W. Howell ~ 59 Comments

Of all the treasures in Port Aransas, the Museum has selected eight which have been labeled The Eight Wonders of Port Aransas. I thought it would be fun to take a look at what the museum considers the eight wonders.

Number one is the Lighthouse. Construction started in 1854, and the first light went on in 1857. The beacon could be seen as far out as seven miles into the Gulf. It was an operational lighthouse for Ninety -nine years before decommissioning. (photo courtesy of The Port Aransas Museum)

Number two is the jetties. There are two and were built to stop the erosion of the ship channel. Work was begun in 1862, but it was not until 1910 that the jetties were constructed finally strong enough to withstand the sea force.

The third is the Tarpon Inn. So named after a popular gamefish that is now extinct from the Port Aransas waters. The hotel was built in 1886 just when it was clear that the jetties would be successful in protecting the ship channel from deterioration. The channel meant new visitors and new business opportunity.

I couldn’t get the Tarpon Inn in one shot so here is another

The fourth wonder is the University of Texas Marine Science Institute. Established in 1941 the institute has educated thousands of scientists on how to move marine science forward. Here is a picture of the educational center.

The fifth is the Port Aransas Museum. It is housed in a building that was initially a “kit ” home built in 1914. It has been moved three times around the island. It served as the life-saving station from 1916 to 1925 and then a private residence for seventy-seven years until donated to the museum.

The sixth is the Farley Boat Works. Founded in 1915 the works made boats that could withstand the heavy surf around Port Aransas. They were used primarily as fishing boats. The works continued to make boats until 1970. In 2011 the Farley Boat Works began making crafts once again.

The seventh is the Chapel in the Dunes. It is atop the highest dune in Port Aransas. It was built in 1937 to serve as a devotional place for the Carter family. It also became the center for ice cream socials for the children of Port Aransas held by Arline Carter know as the “Angel Lady.”

Photo courtesy of The Port Aransas Museum

The eighth wonder is the Last Farley Boat. The last boat to leave the boat works. It was a finished hull bought by James Mayfield a local shrimper. He was going to have the shell made into a new shrimp boat. He never got around to it and instead inverted the hull to form a roof on his shop.

I hope you have enjoyed a glimpse of the Eight Wonders of Port Aransas

Stream of Consciousness Saturday – Prompt “Affirm”

February 2, 2019February 1, 2019 ~ John W. Howell ~ 55 Comments

It is Stream of Consciousness Saturday time again and this weeks prompt is, “affirm.” Linda Hill is not offering bonus points this week but does advise us to have fun. So with that in mind if you would like to join this merry band who like nothing more than having fun, visit Linda’s blog to read how to become involved. It is effortless. Here is the link.

The Friday Reminder and Prompt for #SoCS Feb. 2/19

“Hey there. Hello. Anyone home?”

“Oh, I’m sorry I was listening to a CD with my headphones on.”

“What you listening to, The Grateful Dead?”

“No, I’m listening to affirmations.”

“Affirmations? What the heck are affirmations?”

“It is a wonderful set of motivational speakers who talk regarding positive affirmations.”

“That tells me a lot. You can’t define a word using the word.”

“Yeah, I see that. Okay. These folks use soft words to help you feel good about what you are doing.”

“And you don’t feel good.”

“I feel terrific.”

“Why’s that?.”

“I think it is obvious.”

“Not to me.”

“Because I affirm I feel terrific.”

“How much did these CD’s cost you?”

“You just don’t understand.”

“I guess I have to wonder about self-affirmation.”

“I got it from all the other affirmations I received on the CDs.”

“Can you affirm me?”

“That might be hard.”

“Why?”

“Because you are a mess.”

Friday JohnKu – AKA – TGIF

February 1, 2019January 31, 2019 ~ John W. Howell ~ 67 Comments

“Hey, Lucy. It’s Friday. Let’s kick out”
“You must be the smallest horse on the planet Little Potato.”

Another Friday has rolled around. The winter vortex is in full force. I’ve been getting reports from the North on terrifying stories about getting stranded in the cold. Reminds us all to take warm outerwear whenever we venture out. It is way too easy to be caught in the elements and then be made to suffer the effects of the cold.

Here in South Texas, we don’t have the kind of cold that is capable of taking life. We start to complain at 70 degrees and whine at 40 but don’t have to worry about a life-threatening situation. I hope everyone stays safe and remembers to toss in some heavy outdoor wear even if you are only going to the store.

Today’s JohnKu discusses the cold. I hope you all have a beautiful weekend.

Cold by John W. Howell © 2109

You can be taken,

Without even noticing . . .

How bitter the Temp.

Thursday – A little Personal – Lucy and Twiggy on the Beach

January 31, 2019January 30, 2019 ~ John W. Howell ~ 71 Comments

“Hey, Lucy. Check it out. What is that?

“Let me get closer.”

“Gee I should walk backward so you can keep up.”

“Very funny, youngster.”

“What is it, Lucy?”

“This is what humans call a sand castle.”

“Yikes. Look at that skull.”

“How do you know about skulls?”

“Everyone knows about skulls. Look at the starfish.”

“You amaze me Little One.”

“Now there is something you should go after.”

“What are you talking about, Lucy?”

“Those birds over there.”

“You think Mama would let me?”

“Maybe not. Look there.”

“What is it, Lucy?”

“A road grader, Little Potato.”

“Come on let’s go get it.”

“That’s not something you want to catch, Twiggy.”

“Aw come on. It looks like fun.”

“I see our golf cart is between you and the grader. That’s a good thing.”

“Aw, gee. You mean I won’t be able to catch it?”

“Thank heavens Little One. Thank Heavens.

Wednesday Story Day – AKA – Hump Day

January 30, 2019January 29, 2019 ~ John W. Howell ~ 46 Comments

“Is it Friday?”
“No, it’s Wednesday.”
“I’ll continue with my sunbath until Friday then.”

It is Wednesday Story Day again, and last week we saw Larry try to contact Gloria about how to get evidence on Cortez. We were all surprised to find out Gloria was on holiday. Our biggest shock was the knowledge that spirits take holidays. Before he left Micki’s shop, she suggested that he try to get the goods on one of Cortez’s confidants and then have the confidant supply information on Cortez. I believe the phrase is “rat out Cortez.” Larry is just getting back to his office where Andrew is waiting.

“Hey, Andrew.”

“You look pretty glum chum.”

“Longfellow you are not. I just came from Micki’s shop.”

“Micki? Ah, a delightful person.”

“She gives you her best.”

“I wish I had gone with you.”

“For more tea?”

“You are funny, Larry. How’d you know about tea?”

“She offered me a cup.”

“A cup? She was really talking about tea then.”

“What are you talking about?”

“Oh, never mind. Did you get in touch with Gloria?”

“No, she was on vacation.”

“Excuse me? I’ve never heard of a spirit going on vacation.”

“Yeah, spare me. I have a headache.”

“So what’s our next move?”

“Let’s get a list of all of Cortez’s closest associates. I think we can nab one of them for something and get him to turn state’s evidence in exchange for information on Cortez’s involvement with the murder.”

“So, you really think he killed Sandusky?”

“If not, I’m certain he ordered it.”

“I guess it wouldn’t hurt to take one of those criminals off the street.”

“We have to get someone high enough in his organization to make it meaningful.”

“You got the list?”

“Let’s sit down at my computer, and you can look over my shoulder while I go through the Cortez file.”

“I didn’t know you had a Cortez file.”

“Yeah, we have been watching him for a few years.”

“Let’s do it.”

“While this blunderbuss is warming up, would you be so kind as to get us a cup of coffee.”

“Wonderful idea, Boss. Be right back.”

“Of course, the phone. Hello. Yes, this is detective Dunfee.”

“I’m back.”

“Hush. It’s Cortez’ office. Yes, I’m here. What can I do for you? Of course. Three o’clock. That would be fine. Thank you. Goodbye.”

“What the hell?”

“Cortez is coming over for a visit.”

“You must be kidding.”

“Three o’clock. I think he is worried.”

Tuesday – Anything Possible – Kreative Kue # 204 by Keith Channing.

January 29, 2019January 28, 2019 ~ John W. Howell ~ 58 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.

“Shush.”

“What are you doing?”

“I’m trying to determine what is behind the door and I need to listen with no noise from you.”

“All I was doing was breathing.”

“You were snoring.”

“Was not.”

“Please hush now.”

“Okay, but I don’t hear anything.”

“From where you are I’m not surprised.”

“I’ll have you know that Russell Terriers have a very keen sense of hearing.”

“Blah, blah, blah. Now be quiet.”

“Oh.”

“What now?”

“I hear something.”

“Yeah sure, you do.”

“I do. I wish the folks were at home.”

“Why?”

“What’s the use of barking if there is no one to hear.”

“Says the terrier philosopher.”

“I mean it. Maybe we should put up an alarm anyway.”

“I wish you would be quiet.”

“Fine.”

“I think it is a wolf.”

“Yeah right?”

“I’m serious.”

“I’m staying in this bed then. You go get him.”

“You know I can’t open doors, right?”

“Then let’s just wait until he goes away.”

“Not very dog-like.”

“But no one will know if we bark.”

“The wolf will.”

“Good enough for me. Here goes.”

Top Ten Things Not to Do While Women Prohibitionists Smash 12 Saloons in Kansas in 1901

January 28, 2019January 27, 2019 ~ John W. Howell ~ 69 Comments

This post continues the Top Ten Things Not to Do with a historical background. This week is the anniversary of the 1901 smashing of twelve saloons in Kansas by women prohibitionists lead by Carrie Nation. If you have the ability to time travel to that event this list is designed to keep you out of trouble.

10 If you are there with Carrie Nation, do not try to sneak a sip from your flask of Jack Daniels. If you do, at best you’ll be unseen. At worst, the prohibitionist will be tempted to treat you like a piece of the bar. ( You should have thought about that drink, Garbhan. Maybe the fact that everyone was wielding a hatchet might have given you a hint. Lucky you got hit with the dull end.)

9 If you are there with Carrie Nation, do not try to hold on to your bottle while Tiny the WWF champ is attempting to pull it from your hand. If you do, at best it will slip out. At worst, Tiny who just lost his last marble in a game has no intention of losing a tug of war over a bottle of bourbon. (Best to let him have it, Garet. His big hand is on your head, and he is getting ready to squeeze. I’ve seen him open cantaloupes this way)

8 If you are there with Carrie Nation, do not wear your “One Man One Vote” T-shirt. If you do, at best you can talk fast and save yourself. At worst, it will be assumed you are not in favor of women’s suffrage. (That would be like wearing a honey coated shirt to a bear convention, Garrard. Just not done.)

7 If you are there with Carrie Nation, do not shed a tear as all those bottles of booze get smashed. If you do, at best they may think something got in your eye. At worst, you might be mistaken for an anti-temperance person. (Getting tossed out of the bar on your ear is better than a lot of possibilities, Garrson. Consider yourself lucky.)

6 If you are there with Carrie Nation, do not try to sing hymns if you don’t know the words. If you do, at best someone may find you a hymnal. At worst, the group may consider you an outsider and want you gone. (If you had only hummed the tune, you would have been home free, Garton. BTW it is “Bringing in the Sheaves” not “Hide the Shives.”

5 If you are with Carrie Nation, do offer to order take out after the “hatchetations.” If you do, at best no one will understand what you mean. At worst, you will give your time traveler status away. (There are still a lot of people who believe in witches, Garwood. Looks like a big pile of firewood is left from the bar. I think I would book out of there.)

4 If you are with Carrie Nation, do not start talking about the Kansas City Chiefs while chopping up saloons. If you do, at best you will be ignored. At worst, someone will ask you what you are talking about. (Since the Kansas City Chiefs were named in 1963 you are a little ahead of yourself, Gavino. Also, Ms. Nation wants to speak in private. Never a good thing.)

3 If you are with Carrie Nation, do not mistakenly call her Lizzy Bordon. If you do at best, she never heard of Lizzy. At worst, since Lizzy became famous in 1892, Carrie is well aware of who she is. (Good luck trying to explain it was the hatchet that made you make the mistake, Gearald. You see Lizzy was accused of using an ax to commit murder.)

2 If you are with Carrie Nation, do not argue with her when she claims to have invented the airplane. If you do, at best she will tire of trying to convince you. At worst, she will tire of you. (You have to remember she is the one with the hatchet, Gedalyahu. You’ve seen that look in her eye before.)

1 If you are with Carrie Nation, try not to be arrested by the police. If you do, at best you are only charged with a misdemeanor. At worst, the police have decided to make an example of the Carrie Nation and her band. (The judge has given you a fine that amounts to over $15,000 in today’s money, Gennadi. I think you should hot the time travel button and get out of there. I hope you didn’t give them your real name.)

Views of the Neighborhood – Potpourri

January 27, 2019January 26, 2019 ~ John W. Howell ~ 84 Comments

Today is a sampling of some things. I started with the idea of face boards and then got a little distracted with other things along the way. I hope you enjoy today’s tour.

Here is a face board for a storage facility. You can also see their Farley boat.

This is in front of our vet’s office

Stingrays is a restaurant and bar

This is the Gaff’s face board. Notice that annoying fender in the way.

The fender belongs to the Gaff staff car

Of course, there are belt sander races this weekend. No, we are not going.

I love this blessing box.

A little lending library too.

The front of a gift shop.

Oceans of Seafood. A bar and restaurant.

A reminder of what can happen if you are not careful.

Coastal Ed’s Gold Cart rental

The tackle shop

The souvenir shop

A dolphin in the parking lot. Blown off the building by Hurricane Harvey.

A giant chambered nautilus sharing the fate of the dolphin.

Wilton’s Candy board

Winton’s door showing the water line of Harvey.

This one is for Craig Boyack and his Voyage of the Lanternfish pirate fantasy story.

A lovely story of the Sand Dollar.

Stream of Consciousness Saturday – Prompt “ad/add/AD (Anno Domini).”

January 26, 2019January 25, 2019 ~ John W. Howell ~ 50 Comments

It is Stream of Consciousness Saturday again and this weeks prompt is “ad/add/AD (Anno Domini).” There is good news, Linda Hill says there are bonus points if we use all in the post today. I’m all over the bonus points cause this week’s points added to the three years previous points get me that Grande Mocha Latte I have been wanting. If you would like to have your wants fulfilled, go to Linda’s blog and find out how. Here is the link.

The Friday Reminder for #SoCS & #JusJoJan 2019 Daily Prompt – Jan. 26th

“I bet I can beat you at dominos.”

“What are you doing?”

“Preparing for church.”

“What’s with the domino challenge.”

“Its part of the service. It’s going to be in Latin.”

“You cannot be that dumb.”

“What do you mean?”

“Dominus stands for The Lord like in Dominus vobiscum. The Lord be with you. Not dominos.”

“I suppose you also know what Anno Domini means.”

“I do but what does that have to do with what we were talking about?”

“Well, I hear it a lot in history class.”

“Good grief and you never asked?”

“Don’t want to look like a fool.”

“I get that, but would amend it to ‘Look more like the fool I am'”

“That’s cold. So what does it mean?”

“In the year of Our Lord.”

“When?”

“Please stop.”

“Okay, I’ll just add that to my list.”

“What list?”

“Of new things I’ve learned.”

“Good idea.”

“You see that ad on TV?”

“What ad.”

“The one where you can learn a language in thirty days.”

“Yeah, so?”

“I want to take English.”

“You may actually be successful with that.”

“You think?”

“No.”

Now I gotta go get that latte.

Friday JohnKu – AKA – TGIF

January 25, 2019January 25, 2019 ~ John W. Howell ~ 48 Comments

“Lucy. It’s Friday.”
“I’m ready Little One.”

Ah, another Friday which is another word for par-teee. Always nice to see the eve of the weekend. I hope your week was a good one. Gwen Plano and I received our manuscript back from the editor and were both impressed with the quality of work. She did a marvelous job taking our text and helping the story. Of course, Gwen and I tried to write a book all while having surgeries. I would not recommend that profile to anyone.

As we say, all is well that ends well and we are now hopeful of having a book that folks will enjoy reading. We decided to go with a mystery story rather than a thriller.

The title is The Predator a world domination fight to the finish.

Here is a preliminary blurb:

After the death of Brad and Sarah, it is apparent that a force is behind a plot to take over the leadership of the world. The murder of the two becomes only one small piece of a sinister plan to eliminate world leaders and take control.

Governments are infiltrated with the perpetrator’s allies and minions so no one can be trusted.

A small band of Brad and Sarah’s admirer’s vow to stop the evil expansion and eliminate the leader. The group comes under attack, and the question becomes will they survive and stop The Predator before the word is lost?

Today’s JohnKu talks about trying to do too much. I hope you have a great weekend.

When your body talks,

It is telling you to stop . . .

Take time to listen.