Steven Guetschow: During my childhood in the upper midwest my parents instilled their love of the outdoors in my siblings and I with hands on training in Indian lore, canoe trips on waterways used by early French explorers, backpacking, and extended camping trips. I was drawn to the works of Mark Twain, Jack London, Stephen Crane, and other stories of early American exploration. When my father's health triggered a migration to the Southwest I was immersed in the grass roots of western lifestyle and the variety of cultures in this region. My wife Rita recognized my talent for description and encouraged me to begin writing. Later a pen pal, who is a writer, directed me to this site for the valuable knowledge and guidance members have to offer. I believe I could become a successful novelist as my life experience, historical knowledge, and ability to visualize a scene form a foundation for many stories.