Blog
A collection of Rick’s experiences in acting, writing, painting, in life, and more. Amusing musings, thoughtful insights and observations on how to be a better human being.
Nicer Name Calling
I’ve begun to think lately that the current language of anger in our culture is less than useful, certainly less than kind (and it’s not such a terrible idea to be kind to people even when you’re angry with them). If someone crosses your path in such a way as to inconvenience you—like maybe they’re…
Speaking at the Historical Novel Society, then going home with Linda
I had a swell time this past weekend speaking at the September meeting of the Los Angeles chapter of the Historical Novel Society. It took place at the Fairfax Library in Hollywood. The friendly, welcoming members all sat around a large table. Light poured in through the high cloistered windows that encircled the round room,…
Publication Day– The Alexandrite (Brain Damage)
After Pink Floyd recorded “Dark Side of the Moon,” Roger Waters, who did vocals, played bass guitar, and wrote the lyrics, took a reel-to-reel copy home and played it for his wife. He was understandably, after an unusually long time working on an album, very close to it—probably too close, he imagined, to have any…
Living With Marilyn
Linda found a place in Hollywood where you can order full-sized cardboard cutouts of famous people. There are more of Marilyn Monroe than almost any other celebrity. We chose the one of her from “Bus Stop” since it’s the shooting of that movie that provides some of the background for “The Alexandrite.” We had a…
The Alexandrite Book Launch Party
Reading from “The Alexandrite.” My mother would have told me to sit up straight.
Pre Book Launch All Nighter
I napped a lot yesterday. It was an extra-hot San Fernando Valley day. I’d stayed up all night the night before, doing things I must do to be ready for the launch of “The Alexandrite” on August 15th. I knew I wouldn’t be able to sleep tonight, so after Linda and I finished reading to…