Can I be honest with you? Then again, you’re here for a reason my confidant. Certainly we can be truthful with one another. I mean that’s why we’re compelled to tell our stories. Whether fictionalized or not we’re displaying and sharing ourninternal struggles through whatever medium they require,
The Bad News (full disclosure: this sucks. skip to “Good News” if you’re not in the mood)
2023 hit hard.
My dad died. We weren’t close. In fact he left our family shortly after I was born. I am sorry for this and I do recognize the significance this must have played on some early trauma but I hold not hard feelings, nor do I blame him. My parents were 17. Who’s to say I wouldn’t do the same? He went on to have healthy and happy family later in life and they’re wonderful.
On the other hand, my upbringing was a group effort. A concerted commitment of our extended Romani family who scattered across the states after immigrating.
My greatest inspiration came from my Papa (grandpa), a poet and maker, my passion for literary life and storytelling came from my mother, while my obsession with world cuisine, cooking, and adventure arrived through my Oma (grandma).
So when my dad died, this indeed came as a saddening shock but as we had kept in touch I still don’t know the effects nor can I rightly understand how I feel outside of genuinely feeling unsure of how I feel — talk about a loop.
All this to say it was a hard year, this was amplified when Papa died. For all intents and purposes this poetic soul was my father — the anchor in my quest for paternal inspiration along the Hero’s Journey.
And just last night mom texted me with the news that was he is in the late stage of heart failure, the late stages of a systemic bodily shutdown.
She was and is my best friend. As a young mother, she danced the fine line between being a caregiver and a friend. She taught me the value of 80’s punk rock and the philosophical grounding of understanding your “enemies.” She taught me to recognize the intent in others, whether I agreed or not, and to accept that most people are trying their best, even when it seems like they’re secretly demonic monsters disguised as human. She taught me to resist the so-called “American Dream.” And to chase my own heart across the globe as needed to fulfill the story of who I a, meant to be. She hamper me the courage to take that “road less traveled” and I couldn’t be more grateful.
Not she’s slipping away,
This is a human who just entered into her midlife. How does the body betray us so? Is it the divine workings of the cosmos? The underpinnings of chaos theory? Is it karmic retribution of some ancient wounds? I wonder at times if potions or witchery can bring me what I desire. Then again, I am not one to resist the four winds of nature,
But please stop me while I’m ahead, I just want us to be honest from this Day 1.
But hey, you’re here, and I am s9 grateful for you.
The Good News
As we usher in the new year of 2024, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the adventures and accomplishments of the past year. For me, 2023 was a year filled with academic pursuits, creative endeavors, and exciting new projects. So, grab a cup of tea, today I’m sipping on Egyptian Jasmine, and let’s take a journey through the highlights of 2023.
1. Back to School:
One of the most significant milestones of 2023 was returning to my beloved Alma mater, the University of Missouri, for graduate school. I embarked on a journey into the realms of narrative design and game studies. My goal is clear: to dedicate my life and research to understanding and sharing the profound importance of storytelling and play in the human experience. I firmly believe that play is the foundation upon which our understanding of the world is built, and this truth resonates through the ages.
2. Studio Zuhno:
In 2023, I took a leap and launched Studio Zuhno, an interactive media development studio based in the heart of Kansas City, Missouri. You can find us blogging and sharing dev logs at Ludonarrative Chronicles.
One of the highlights of Studio Zuhno’s journey was the initiation of our monthly book club. We delve into the worlds of art, game design, storytelling, and more. If you’re passionate about these topics, don’t hesitate to join the discussion on our Discord channel.
Our maiden gaming project, “Popcorn Jr.,” took flight with me at the narrative design helm and the brilliant game developer and programmer, Ewan Fiasco, handling the code. We’re excited to unveil a fun demo this month, offering a nostalgic blend of late ’90s adventure games, ’90s beat’em-ups, and a dash of Katamari chaos.
Get ready for a wild ride! You can support Studio Zuhno via Patreon here, and follow their blog here.
3. The Birth of “Harvest Moon”:
I wrapped up another novel and embarked on a new adventure as I began crafting a trilogy. The first installment, “Harvest Moon,” is in progress, promising an immersive and captivating narrative.
Follow along, sign up for the newsletter!
4. Pokemon Fan Fiction:
For fellow Pokemon enthusiasts who’ve outgrown the “gotta catch ’em all” phase, I’ve started a series of fan fiction that delves into more profound, philosophical aspects of the Pokemon universe. Expect grounded storytelling, rich environments, and encounters with old favorites like Team Rocket. Professor Oak and familiar Gym leaders will make appearances, promising nostalgia for long-time fans and intrigue for newcomers. Think of it as Pokemon meets Indiana Jones or the linguistic wonder of “Arrival.”
Explore the Wild Kanto Blog here.
Stay tuned to for a kickstarter launching within the next few weeks. All funds go to support backend development, time writing, and content creation.
Meet Alex and their wonderfully mysterious encounters across Kanto
5. Poetry and Short Stories:
This May, my collection of poetry and short stories is set to be published. Be sure to join my personal mailing list for updates on this exciting release!
Read poems and short stories here.
Preorders available early spring.
6. Hyakunin Ishu Translation:
My ongoing translation of the Japanese classic, Hyakunin Ishu, continues. Dive into the world of classical Japanese poetry with me as we explore its timeless beauty.
Read the ongoing translation here
Now, I’d love to hear from you! What adventures did you embark on in 2023? What are your goals and dreams for the year ahead? Let’s embark on this journey together, embracing the power of storytelling, play, and creativity.
Here’s to a fantastic 2024
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