KJ

A new season...

2011-09-17T06:57:00.000-07:00

Summer seems to have come and gone without introducing itself, in our part of the world. If anyone knows where it went please let me know.

At least there was an opportunity for DDM and I to meet up with a good friend, German artist Otolo, in Wissembourg, France, for an alfresco lunch and a bit of shopping for du vin, du pain et du fromage, afterward. The day was sunny and there is a lovely stream that flows through the middle of the village and right by our table, at Restaurant du Saumon.

One should never complain when one can break bread with friends in such an environment, and I am not one to do so. I enjoyed the quiche, although the caterpillar in my salad was unexpected. C'est la vie. It is France, after all. The great company and conversation made up for that minor inconvenience.

While we were having lunch we noticed an atelier on the other side of the stream that ran within three feet of our table. After lunch, we went to take a look and we met the owner/artist, Maria-Elisabeth Geske.

She works with clay and plaster, creating wonderful figurative sculpture and lighting surrounds that are very unique. If in the area, I highly recommend a visit to Artelier au Fleuve, her studio in Wissembourg. (For information, you can visit her website at: www.artelier-au-fleuve.info)

The leaves have been falling since early August and the colours are changing, so fall is here. I welcome the coolness, although the dark months of winter are not very inspiring. We'll keep lots of lights on during the short daylight hours.

I do hope that everyone had a fun summer. Keep the emails coming and I always welcome comments in the Guestbook.

KJ

2011-05-04T18:21:00.001-07:00

It has been a few months since my last post, and we can attribute this to time spent writing and attending to new challenges. I have reduced my ancillary activities some, to allow more time for writing, and I hope to have 'Another Lamb' ready for editing by November. It will be a busy summer, I fear.

I wish everyone a safe and fun-filled summer.

KJ

2010-12-15T09:24:00.000-08:00

Friends, It may well be that we have a white Christmas after all. The snow seems to come and go, but one of the latest batches left a rather nice blanket on the landscape. I have attached a photo of one part of the garden under covers. I wish everyone a safe and joyful holiday and a reminder to take care of those less fortunate.

KJ

2010-10-07T18:21:00.000-07:00

A short update, as the schedule will only allow for the time being, to let you know that I will be out of commission next week, for a couple of days. It's those guys in the white coats, again, for a minor inconvenience. And, if any of you motor-heads know who took the great photo of the 36 RR above, I would love to know his/her name.

The weather has definitely decided to go 'winter' on us, and we can safely say that summer is part of history, for 2010. Where did it go?

If you're in Frankfurt Am Main, this week, please stop by the Frankfurt Book Fair and check out the new reads that are available, and don't forget to look for my book.

A'bientot,

KJ

Summer update...

2010-06-26T22:27:00.000-07:00

Spring has been a mixture of fall weather and much rain. It is now sunny and attempting to be hot outdoors, although the chill of night is still prevalent, in the garden outside my window. I have the door open, so that I can bring the fresh air in, and it is very nice. I like getting up early, as the sun rises, for one can almost imagine that he is alone in the world, and all of its beauty is his to behold. For this month, I have uploaded a photo of the trees from our garden at the studio, which are seen from outside the south wall of the garden. Anyone could be creative in this environment.

I have been away from my writing for a bit, due to other issues that took precedence. My walking is still heavily restricted and sitting for long periods is not allowed, because of complications on that front. So, sitting at the computer to write for hours on end has been a no-no. I'm not complaining, although the chapters for all three books are wreaking havoc in my brain, as they struggle for release. I am thankful that I am still somewhat mobile, and will take comfort in that.

A short holiday in Provence has been suggested, and I am warming to the idea, although confronting the scorpions will be an unwelcome activity. One has to examine 0ne's shoes in the morning before slipping toes into them, if one wishes to avoid a surprise encounter with one of the beasts. Ah, the price we pay for serene beauty in wonderful countryside and du vin, du pain et du fromage.

Paperwork has been submitted for me to have my book in the Frankfurt Book Fair, in Frankfurt, Germany, this fall. We are awaiting confirmation, and I am excited to be in this venue. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that it would be accepted, in spite of the fact that it is written in English. It seems that the only criteria was that the book be published in Germany, which it is. It does mean that the price of the book will be going up by 8.7% because the book may now be offered by other retail outlets and I will have to raise the cost to cover their rather substantial discounts. So, I suggest that if you have been holding off on a purchase, it would be wise to place an order for IOAAODS before September, when the price will be raised for the show.

Have a safe summer, and for chrissakes, get off the computer and take a book to the beach!

KJ

2010-03-10T08:59:00.000-08:00

If this is a hint of what's to come, then Spring is finally upon us! We had terrific winds after this photo was taken, which caused much mayhem, but the plant life is still intact. It is nice to have days getting longer, and the sun appearing more often.

IOAAODS has been reviewed by two others, and I have posted one of the reviews so far. The first is from Blake Fraina, author of King of Cats, which I will be reviewing next month. DDM is currently reading it, so I will have a go when he is finished. I will post the second new review of IOAAODS tomorrow afternoon.

Stay healthy and safe.

KJ

2010-01-13T16:27:00.001-08:00

Yes, the winter finally caught up with us, at the studio. So far, this has been the most 'wintery' winter I have seen, in Deutschland. Usually, we just get forty minutes of the white stuff, except for last year's three days. Maybe there is a change a comin'?

Wishing everyone a safe, prosperous and healthy new year!

KJ

2009-11-25T14:31:00.000-08:00

The image above was taken from my bed at dawn, yesterday, my last day at the hospital, in Darmstadt, Germany. It seems that the gods were as happy as was I that I was going home to continue with this new challenge in which I find myself. However, the colours reflect the hope that one can have when confronting a health hiccup, and I feel confident that a resolution is in the near future. Enjoy the picture, and I have enjoyed reading the notes and comments about Impaired Ocular Acuity and Other Demented Synapses, from readers around the world. Spread the message!

Ebay and Politics, the Perfect Solution?

2009-10-04T06:39:00.000-07:00

Friends,

I just had to do it. The target was too tempting, and the idea too much fun for me to turn away from it. Kind of like watching a train wreck, actually. Read and enjoy.

Meg Whitman Goes to Sacramento

When I learned that Meg Whitman, of Ebay fame, was going to run for Governor of the fair State of California, I was at first surprised. But, then it hit me: it's perfect! Not even David Rockefeller could have dreamed up this one - or maybe he did, but that's another topic for discussion.

Think of it: instead of the current system of back-room bidding for political favors and the secretive purchasing of whole groups of senators and congress(wo)men that is now in place, corporations like Cigna, Exxon and the rest could do it right out in the open. Just like a real auction! How cool would that be? Then, they wouldn't have to hide the stealing and lying, which take up so much of their valuable time. And, Cigna and the other bloodsuckers of their ilk wouldn't have to spend 200+ million a year on 'political donations' (or, in the vernacular: bribes) to get legislation passed that basically screws Californians. Politicians could come out of the closet, finally, and post a Starting Bid and even a Buy It Now price, AND they could make it a Reserve auction (no relation to the Fed intended, although we can be assured that they would participate, as usual), to ensure that they get the top dollar that they are worth.

This could also return at least one state of the USA back to a sense of actual Democracy, as well. Yep, sure can. In an auction, anyone can bid - even the citizens! How novel is this? Californians would then actually be able to enter the bidding process for their elected officials, instead of being shut out of the game. All bidders welcome, is the Ebay philosophy, right? Imagine actually getting the attention of a politician and having them do what you want them to do. I know, it's a stretch to form that thought in your mind, but give it a go. It's really fun, when you get into the concept.

One of the obvious downsides to Meg's business philosophy going to Sacramento would be the lack of customer support. Then, of course, there are the constantly changing rules that are motivated by the sole credo of 'Profit, Profit.' She has stated that the would like to loosen the regulations on the environment for the state: Within months, Sacramento will be handing down new rules to implement AB32, the far-reaching law to restrict greenhouse gas emissions. Signed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2006, AB32 may have been well intentioned. But it is wrong for these challenging times. With this ongoing economic crisis, the governor has the ability to issue an executive order putting a moratorium on most AB32-related rules. I urge him to do so. And if he does not, I will issue that order on my first day as governor. Yes, I used the colour green to highlight that message as a bit of irony.

After all is said and done, Meg states her ideals quite clearly: "California’s government should be run more like a business..." This is just what California has been waiting for: the corporate mentality of efficiency, greed, self-promotion and political manipulation of issues, regardless of its effect on the populace. Oh...wait...that's how it is now! My bad.

The one thing I would look forward to, if I lived in California, and Meg wins: Feedback. Think how much fun it will be to leave appropriate feedback for those politicians who do not perform in the spirit for which they were purchased! The most obvious benefit is keeping those politicians in line whom we did win at auction. And, the other benefit would be to watch and see which of those politicians won by corporations failed miserably for their winners. They would be good investments for the future, oui? We might even make the name of this auction process Obey!

I may have to rethink the apparent inconceivable nature of Meg and her profits-or-die mantra going to Sacramento. There may, after all, be a great logic behind it all, and actual benefits to the citizens of that fine state. Of course, that would mean that they would actually have to do an auction to buy politicians. Without that benefit it is doubtful that there will be any change in business, in California, when and if Meg gets the voters' nod.

You are in our prayers.

KJ

Quotes from Meg's written texts borrowed from this website, under the Fair Use doctrine: http://www.megwhitman.com

Summer is upon us.

2009-08-02T05:57:00.000-07:00

Friends,

I must admit to being a bit sidetracked, this summer, with other tasks keeping me from my writing. Numerous activities of a more mundane nature have assailed me and required my attention, and I have been taking long walks in the country to ease my mind and repair my soul. The photo at the top is from one of my jaunts, and oui, I was caught in that storm, but managed to find cover and enjoyed it immensely. I will take some time away from all of that in the way of a short holiday with a friend visiting us from the States, in the second half of this month. I do hope to get back to France for a bit, and I might even break into my strict diet for some pain, fromage et champagne! I do hope everyone is having a fun summer (and winter, for my Aussie compatriots). Play safe and keep smiling!

KJ

At last...

2009-05-22T04:39:00.000-07:00

Friends,

If you have wandered through these pages, it is likely that you already know that Impaired Ocular Acuity and Other Demented Synapses is now available. It was a long process to bring it to this stage, and I have learned much along the way. I do hope you will take a moment to browse the previews offered on this site, and if what I have shared moves you to do so, order a book or two.

Enjoy, and feedback is always welcome.

KJ

Good news, and an apology...

2009-04-21T15:50:00.000-07:00

Friends,

I must apologize for not posting excerpts from 'Not For The Moon,' and activities have kept me too busy to do so. There is also good news: 'Impaired Ocular Acuity and Other Demented Synapses' is finally being printed, in the UK, this week! I should have the books by the first week of May, if all goes well, an outcome which I anticipate. The page for purchasing books will be put up as soon as the books are in stock.

I also have good news for international readers: shipping from the studio in Germany to any country outside of Germany will be 6 Euros, and 4.5 Euros for Airmail in Germany. Not bad, eh? Yes, the book will be shipped in an appropriate cardboard container, much like Amazon uses. We do want the book to arrive unscathed, yes?

If you want to be alerted when the books are available, send me an email at: kj@kristophe.com and I will put you on the notification list.

Thank you for your many notes of encouragement, and support.

KJ

Spring is coming...

2009-03-08T19:33:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is, and I am expecting what I hope to be the last proof before I print IOAAODS. It should arrive this week, or next. Cross your fingers for me. I have updated the hoped-for release times for 'The Other Lamb' and 'An Atheist In A Foxhole,' and I will be posting excerpts from 'Not For The Moon' later this month. This fourth book is scheduled for the first quarter of 2010, if all goes according to plan. Let us hope, yes?

I was recently asked how I juggle several books at the same time, and I can only say: I haven't a clue. I do not use an outline, nor do I start from page one, the title comes to be while I am constructing the story and I have never had writer's block at any point. It would appear that I am truly fortunate that some entity in this universe has blessed me with this ability to handle multiple tasks, and if I were to add the other projects, including The Boys of St. Precocious Academy, well......let's just say that Scotland needs to keep their distillers hard at work to lubricate my beleaguered talent. It wouldn't hurt if the cookie-makers kept up with those little shortbread things, either. They do help, I must admit.

Thank you one and all for your continued good wishes for my speedy recovery, and I wish you all the best of health and pleasures.

KJ

Back to work, soon...

2009-01-22T08:27:00.000-08:00

I have returned home, to continue my recuperation, and while I am doing so I shall continue writing.

The latest proof has arrived, and I will review it next week, when I have the courage to open the package. I know they did not fix the cover colours, yet, so that disappointment will have to be addressed. This process has been so long and drawn out, and I just hope it will end soon, so that I can focus on the other books. I am not cut out for the minuscule details of editing, I assure you. Perhaps a single malt and a shortbread will bring the temporary cure I need.

KJ

2008-11-23T13:20:00.000-08:00

It has been a while since my last blog on this page, what with the constant interruptions from surgeons and therapists, but I have managed to escape their studied attentions long enough to write this short note, and with any luck they will be unable to break down the barrier I have built behind the studio door - at least for a few minutes or so. Persistent buggers, they be.

I have posted a new story, which can be found in 'New Additions,' and was inspired by my time at the Dr. Baumstark Klinik, in Bad Homburg, in October, following the first surgery to repair my impaired mobility. If curiosity drives one to pursue the details of the rigors involved, feel free to do so by reading the blog at: http://www.myspace.com/kristophe_johansson. It was the worst of times, it was the worst still of times, but, I digress.

The story, 'The Promise,' was written after experiencing the visage of an older man, whose face seemed to hold no promise, in the face of his experience. It saddened me greatly to see it, and after sharing it with a boy of 19, and then a writer who has just reached his 80th year, their confirmation of its truth reassured me of the purpose for which I wrote this short story. It is an unavoidable truth which, with good fortune, all must face, at some point.

Because of my seven weeks of hospitalization, and rehab - to which I am about to return for another four weeks, the printing process has been on hold, for 'Impaired Ocular Acuity...' I hope to have it continue, in my absence, and be ready for release by the first of the year. Bless you all for your patience.

If I am unable to send out suitable greetings for the holidays, due to my confinement among they who wear the white coats and uniforms, then let me wish you, one and all, the best and happiest of holidays. Do remember that the best gift is the gift of love and attention, and all will succumb to their beauty. Trust me.

KJ

2008-08-26T15:31:00.000-07:00

We are in the first steps with a printer from the UK, and we anticipate a couple of weeks for proofs to be printed and reviewed, and then the printing of the book for customers will commence. This has been a long road, and at times frustrating, yet I do sense that it has all been worthwhile. I sincerely hope my readers will agree, when they have the opportunity to acquire 'Impaired Ocular Acuity and Other Demented Synapses.'

'The Other Lamb' is coming along, and surprisingly, 'An Atheist in a Foxhole,' has over eight-hundred pages, and I will begin the process of editing while I am recuperating from surgery, next month. I also hope to get in more writing on the fourth book, 'Not For The Moon,' which is a story about a young teen in San Francisco, and his exciting discovery. I will try to have snippets from this book on the site by the end of October, when I return from recuperation.

I would like to thank everyone for their kind words of support, in emails and notes. They warm the cockles of me heart, they do. Merci.

February Update on printing of IOAAODS

2008-03-01T07:05:00.000-08:00

Well, I had to give up with the Lulu.com European attempts to get my first book printed. After receiving both proofs in less than acceptable condition, we looked for assurances from Lulu that they would fix the problems with their Spanish printer, but the problems persisted for myself and others, and I decided not to take a chance on a third attempt, since the first two were found lacking. I could not get one of Lulu's staff to guarantee that they had fixed the problems I experienced, either. Lulu's printer in the USA seems to be okay from the feedback in the forums, but their European counterpart has yet to deliver a quality product to me and several others, and Lulu will not print our Euro books in the USA for us. No reason given, they just won't. I would assume it is due to the agreement with their Euro printer, with whom we are stuck, if European authors want to use Lulu.com as their printer.

Lulu has also ceased communicating with us in the forums, where we were asking for assurances that they had fixed the problems. Several additional authors received orders that were subpar right after me, and now nobody from Lulu will respond in the forum, nor have the problems been fixed. It appears they hope we will just go away, and since the forums are now silent, one can assume many have.

I also feel that my lifestyle had a great deal to do with their responses, and lack of same. When I wrote to them about a moderator who belittled my input about the quality I had received - input given in a professional and detailed manner, I was ignored. This miscreant is the same man who offered to help with an editing problem I was experiencing, until he found out I was a gay author, so his reaction to me in a public forum was no surprise. An old bigot is a bigot locked into his persona, and unlikely to change. Lulu's lack of response to an obvious breach of its etiquette was a surprise. Silence is complicity, to a reasonable mind. Needless to say, I do not feel that as a gay author I was - or am - welcome at Lulu.com, and I would prefer to spend my money where I am welcome.

So, I have solicited bids from other European printers and it will cost more for the book to be published, but I see no point in printing a low-quality product, just for the sake of price. My readers deserve the best quality book I can produce, in both word and construction.

I will update everyone as we progress. So far, it looks like the printing will be done in London. We shall see, and bugger the bigots.

2007-12-28T07:50:00.000-08:00

I do hope that everyone had a safe and happy holiday, and I wish everyone a prosperous and healthy new year.

Update on the progress of Impaired Ocular Acuity:

I finally received the second proof of the book from the Lulu.com printers in Spain, and this one was just as bad as the first: with see-through pages and cover, improperly cut cover, poor construction and several other problems. I am awaiting another book I did with lulu.com, that was printed in the States, to see how that one turned out. The saga of my printing experience with this outfit is too long to post all of the info here, but let me just say that if you are considering doing a book with www.lulu.com, I hope you live in the USA, because their quality control outside of the States is nonexistent. The Spanish printer is the worst I have ever experienced, and I will let it go at that. To say more would require the use of expletives, and I don't wish to start off the new year with such a negative thought. I have also found lulu.com to be the most non-communicative online group with whom I have ever had the misfortune to do business. Overpriced shipping and no bulk-order pricing are two of the largest complaints in their forums, with the Spanish printing inadequacies being the number one complaint, in the international forums - tied with Lulu's very one-sided rate of exchange with the dollar/euro rate, which appears to be set to the level of two years ago. Perhaps the universe is testing my will to continue? Perhaps, and I shall persevere. I am awaiting the book from the States, and then I will decide if I need to bite the bullet and just print locally, which will require a substantial cash outlay. Either way, I will print this book.

Best wishes,

KJ

Just another blog...

2007-11-08T08:56:00.000-08:00

The website was due for a facelift, and part of that work is this new blog, for updates, press information and other trivia that may come along. It is also a means of leaving comments, until the Guestbook is established. The proof copy of 'Impaired Ocular Acuity and Other Demented Synapses' is on its way from the printer, and after we make sure everything is okay, then printing begins. Yep. Millions of copies will roll off the press. Un hunh. Well, maybe a hundred or so, to start. As you can see, the site has changed some, as well, and as soon as we have the book ready to go, we will update the 'To Purchase my Books' page with ordering information and shipping prices. We think we have solved the problem of high shipping costs. Who knew that our representative in Germany had such talent? I will let everyone know, when the book is ready to ship, so stay tuned, and thank you one and all for your wonderful notes and kind words. I look forward to reading your thoughts about the book.

KJ