Spec Fic Blog Machine Rolls to Life

One perceptive eye and three posts in strategic locations. That’s what started the ball rolling. The blog machine has rumbled to life to help rectify the dismal Ralan.com fund drive to keep this valuable resource online for another year. I posted in three strategic locations: here, in Codex, and in… Continue reading

Alt-History Progress

I’m finding alt-history a bit more challenging than I expected. The story in question is a bit tricky, and I’m having difficulty with motive. You can’t just make changes willy-nilly. There has to be a reason. If I decide to explore what might have happened if, say, Kublai Khan had… Continue reading

Alt-History

It’s been a while since I’ve discussed any genre-related opinion, so today lets look at the sub-genre of alt-history. Alternate history is where the author takes one defining moment in history and changes the outcome to explore the ramifications. For instance, what if the South had won the Civil War?… Continue reading

Tenderfoot

This evening, Russell finished the last requirement for his Tenderfoot rank. He is so happy to be rid of the scout badge. I remember those days as a child. Scout is practically free. No camping required, just learn the scout badge and such. Tenderfoot has some basic scouting skill requirements…. Continue reading

Light at the End of the Tunnel — A Train?

It looks like the hoobaloo at work that has me working long hours might be showing signs of resolution. It’s not a done deal yet, but good progress has been made. After working over 14 hours yesterday, getting home at 11:00PM, I got home at 6:00 today then had an… Continue reading