The author lives in Spotsylvania, Virginia, with his wife, Susan. They share the rural atmosphere there with a dog, Lucie; and a myriad of garden plants and majestic trees, all imbedded in the famous “Virginia red clay.” Since his retirement from a professional career in various colleges and universities, Joe found the time he needed, the inspiration he wanted, to generate this collection of short stories, write award-winning poetry, become a Master Gardener. He and Susan have nine talented grandchildren.