I’ve been thinking about the famous “He’p Me” speech by former La. governor, John McKeithen. “I wasn’t born to material wealth, nor do I have claim to an aristocratic name. But if I am elected governor, it will prove that any mother’s son can aspire to the highest political office of this state. I’ve come this far because you the …

Today we continue tidbits and excerpts about our new novel,  A Spent Bullet. This blog is the “director’s cut.”  It features insights, photos, and links from the writing of  A Spent Bullet.  Enjoy! I’ll be updating it through Thanksgiving Day. If you haven’t signed up for our newsletter, visit the Creekbank home page and click on the newsletter button.   …

Mon. Nov. 21 I’ve been thinking about this term:  common courtesy. It’s a fine term but a dying art. It’s what I love about the rural life and my visits to the Third World.  Whatever shortcomings we have, people still show kindness to strangers and the poor. Common courtesy.  What does it mean to you?        

The Art of Thankfulness: “Lord, you’ve given me so much.  I ask for one more thing: a grateful heart.” In the Edge of the Swamp at Dark. I’ve come to the Old House, my favorite writing spot at the end of a cool clear Louisiana fall day. The night sounds and night creatures are now taking over in Crooked Bayou …

‘Ability is what you’re capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it.’ -Raymond Chandler  

Frank Nihart, minister of music at First Baptist DeRidder, is also a talented writer.  This devotion is worthy of reading.  Thanks Frank for sharing with us. Gold or Crowns? By Frank J. Nihart          A few weeks ago I heard a report saying that the price of gold was approaching $2,000 an ounce.  That seems impossible.  The report also …

Encouragement  It’s a word we all need.     This is what the singing cowboy, Gene Autry, wrote about fellow Oklahoman Will Rogers:   I admire him, too, because out of a full and busy life, he took the time and trouble to help a struggling newcomer. I honestly believe that if it had not been for Will Rogers I …

From Crooked Bayou Swamp It’s November 11.  Veteran’s Day Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same. -Ronald Reagan

Author’s note:  we’re inviting book clubs, Louisiana History classes, homeschool groups, and English/Language Arts groups to join us as we walk through my new novel, A Spent Bullet. Welcome, Curt Iles http://www.creekbank.net Sayings:  What does ‘a dollar waiting on a dime’ mean? It’s an old country saying used when you’re waiting on somebody as in “I’m the dollar and I’m …

Thoughts from a Southern Man I write from my hometown of Dry Creek, Louisiana. I write to entertain, educate, and encourage. “It’s easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.”   -Frederick Douglass   All of us are called to invest in young people.  Regardless of our age or background, we have something to offer them: experience. Who “adopted” …

“Self-respect is the root of discipline: The sense of dignity grows with the ability to say no to oneself.” -Abraham Joshua Heschel It’s Friday, November 4.  I hope you have a great day. My prayer for today:  “Lord, help me say no to the things I should.  Help me to say yes to the priority things in my life.  Most …