The Wildcat's Lair

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 40

2012-01-27T17:54:00.002-05:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode on Wildcat Wednesday!

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 39

2012-01-25T21:50:00.001-05:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

If you'd like to enjoy this episode with the appropriate music, just play the music in this video and read it again.

Catch the next episode on Frank Friday!

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 38

2012-01-20T23:13:00.000-05:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode on Wildcat Wednesday!

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 37

2012-01-18T12:00:00.000-05:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode on Frank Friday!

Frank's Flashbacks #4

2011-11-30T20:50:00.001-05:00

"Frank's Medieval Adventure, Episode VI"

Originally Posted: 24 June 2007

Frank's Flashbacks #3

2011-11-11T17:20:00.001-05:00

"MySpace Es Su Space, Episode II"

Originally Posted: 8 June 2007

Frank's Flashbacks #2

2011-11-09T19:00:00.001-05:00

"Wildcat and the Blue Bookstore"
Originally Posted: 24 May 2006

Well, it’s taken me more than a month to finally make good on my bet to Frank. If you’ll recall, I lost our bracket battle for the NCAA Tournament. That meant I had to read three cat-related books and take him to the bookstore for a café mocha... something I'd basically sworn to never do again after the last time I took him to a bookstore.

Frank didn’t quite get his café mocha, though. My son decided to tag along and insisted we go to the “blue bookstore.” Fortunately for me, Frank was willing to allow the concession as long as he got something with caffeine in it.

I could quickly see these two were going to get into a lot of trouble, because it was taking a long time to find what I was looking for. They were a little tired, so I let them take a nap while I kept looking.

Unfortunately, they didn’t sleep as long as I thought they would and well… you can probably guess the rest.

My search for a book was finally successful, and having found my son and Frank, we made our way to the café for something to drink.

Thursday Randomness: Boldly Rap Yourself Silly

2011-11-03T19:41:00.001-04:00

I love these "Epic Rap Battles of History" videos, but I have to say that this one is probably my favorite of the batch so far.

Frank's Flashbacks #1

2011-11-02T23:05:00.000-04:00

So, I let last week pass without an update. Sad to say, things have just been too busy in life offline. I won't let the Lair die, but I also recognize when I need a break. How will Frank and Hip's Steampunk adventure end? Well, I promise to return to that in December. Yes, a whole month from now. Post-conference life and facing a lot of extra work I'm expecting for this month at my paying job is just taking too much of a toll on your friendly neighborhood Wildcat.

So, between now and the end of November, I'll be posting a few of my favorite classic episodes on Wednesdays and Fridays. I'll likely add in a few other goofy things on Thursdays.

For now, here's my first of this month's "Frank's Flashbacks" Episodes.

"Frank's Beach Blast, Episode VI"
Originally Posted: 1 September 2006

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 36

2011-10-21T13:22:00.000-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

And for those who don't get where the tip of the top hat goes to for this episode, I give you one of the funniest moments in movie history and a little musical accompaniment...

Catch the next episode on Wildcat Wednesday!

Frank's Fantasy Football, Season Two, Weeks 5 & 6

2011-10-20T13:20:00.001-04:00

Want to follow the league's action live instead of waiting for next Thursday's update? Visit our league's page on NFL.com.

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 35

2011-10-19T13:27:00.001-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode on Frank Friday!

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 34

2011-10-14T23:23:00.000-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode on Wildcat Wednesday!

Not-So-Lazy Bastard

2011-10-14T15:15:00.000-04:00

Hi, all! Yes, I'm still here. The Lair has been quiet for the past week, due in part to the James River Writers Conference. I had a great time at the conference this past weekend, and it was also productive.

I've been busy working on the writer side of my life, getting my current work-in-progress in shape. In the meantime, I did neglect my poor blog. Yes, sorry. Frank hasn't minded as much as you might think. He's lazy by nature, after all, so any excuse he can find to do nada, he'll take it.

So with that in mind, things will be getting back to normal, and you can expect the latest episode of my comic strip to go online this evening.

Frank's Fantasy Football, Season Two, Week Four

2011-10-06T12:00:00.000-04:00

Want to follow the league's action live instead of waiting for next Thursday's update? Visit our league's page on NFL.com.

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 33

2011-10-05T17:48:00.000-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode on Frank Friday!

And don't forget to submit a caption in this week's "You Write the Caption!" contest, then go do it.

You Write the Caption, Episode 25

2011-10-04T15:39:00.000-04:00

In honor of Ted's Fantasy Football team winning this past weekend (I'll have the full Frank's Fantasy Football update on Thursday), here's this week's picture for "You Write the Caption!" Have at it!

I'll reveal the winning caption on Monday, here in the Lair. You can check out yesterday's post to see the winner for last week's caption contest.

And don't miss tomorrow's episode of my comic strip for Wildcat Wednesday.

Winner for You Write the Caption, Episode 24

2011-10-03T12:30:00.000-04:00

Our winning caption from last week's picture was a no-brainer. Our winner is Ken, who offered the following caption...

Visit the Lair tomorrow to see this week's picture for "You Write the Caption!"

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 32

2011-09-30T18:57:00.000-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode on Wildcat Wednesday!

And don't forget to submit a caption in this week's "You Write the Caption!" contest, then go do it.

Frank's Fantasy Football, Season Two, Week Three

2011-09-29T23:00:00.000-04:00

Want to follow the league's action live instead of waiting for next Thursday's update? Visit our league's page on NFL.com.

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 31

2011-09-28T18:28:00.000-04:00

You Write the Caption, Episode 24

2011-09-27T23:30:00.000-04:00

Last week, I offered a picture with Frank (and me) sporting a look of disgust. I decided to offer a picture of Frank with a slightly different expression for this week. Enjoy!

I'll reveal the winning caption on Monday, here in the Lair. You can check out yesterday's "Ask Uncle Kerouac" to see the winner for last week's caption contest.

And don't miss tomorrow's episode of my comic strip for Wildcat Wednesday.

Ask Uncle Kerouac, Episode 24

2011-09-26T21:55:00.000-04:00

Feel free to share each week's episode of "Ask Uncle Kerouac" by embedding it in your own blogs, Facebook profiles, what have you.

And don't forget to come back tomorrow for the latest picture in our weekly You Write the Caption contest.

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 30

2011-09-23T23:35:00.000-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode on Wildcat Wednesday!

And if you haven't submitted a caption in this week's "You Write the Caption!" contest, then go do it.

Frank's Fantasy Football, Season Two, Week Two

2011-09-22T12:00:00.000-04:00

Want to follow the league's action live instead of waiting for next Thursday's update? Visit our league's page on NFL.com.

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 29

2011-09-21T23:42:00.000-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode on Frank Friday!

And if you haven't submitted a caption in this week's "You Write the Caption!" contest, then go do it.

You Write the Caption, Episode 23

2011-09-21T10:48:00.001-04:00

Never fear, Lair Lovers, the Wildcat's Lair is still here and open for business. Afraid the past few days have been filled with a not-so-nice cold and a few too many hours at work.

I'll have the latest episode of my comic strip posted later today. For now, allow me to reveal the winning caption from last week's picture for "You Write the Caption!"

The winning caption belongs to Beth, who went obscure for this reference. By the way, for anyone who wants to get the "Sidehackers" reference, here's a link to a Wikipedia page that pretty much explains it.

Now, here's the new picture for this week's "You Write the Caption!" I'm almost scared to see what you folks will come up with on this one.

Frank's Fantasy Football, Season Two, Week One

2011-09-15T13:44:00.002-04:00

Want to follow the league's action live instead of waiting for next Thursday's update? Visit our league's page on NFL.com.

Front Porch Flash Fiction

2011-09-15T11:31:00.000-04:00

I just learned that Sink/Swim Press is doing a second run of their anthology Front Porch Flash Fiction which contains my short story "Cheaters Never Win." A husband, having learned his wife has cheated on him, exacts his revenge by forcing her to take part in a deadly game.

The anthology contains stories from a several Richmond writers, including stories from two friends of mine, Katharine Thayer and John Glover. So if you didn't get a copy on the first run, then now's your chance.

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 28

2011-09-14T15:08:00.000-04:00

You Write the Caption, Episode 22

2011-09-13T08:33:00.000-04:00

I was driving into work yesterday when I saw something that made me go, "That needs to be my picture for this week's caption contest." Thankfully, I didn't get into a wreck using my phone to get this picture.

I'll reveal the winning caption on Monday, in the next episode of "Ask Uncle Kerouac." You can check out yesterday's "Ask Uncle Kerouac" to see the winner for last week's caption contest.

Don't forget to catch tomorrow's Wildcat Wednesday episode of my webcomic when Frank and Hip continue their steampunk adventure.

Ask Uncle Kerouac, Episode 23

2011-09-12T15:08:00.000-04:00

The Wildcat's Lair pays a visit to Cafe Caturra on Grove Avenue in Richmond for its latest episode on dealing with addiction to technology! Watch, laugh and learn, dammit.

Feel free to share each week's episode of "Ask Uncle Kerouac" by embedding it in your own blogs, Facebook profiles, what have you.

You can also get Uncle Kerouac's advice by sending your questions to him at AskUncleK@gmail.com.

And don't forget to come back tomorrow for the latest picture in our weekly You Write the Caption contest.

Wildcat's Writer Weekend

2011-09-11T00:05:00.000-04:00

This weekend, I've been more "Bill, the Writer," than "Bill, the Wildcat." It's been a LOT of fun. Last night, I attended the release of the anthology Front Porch Flash Fiction at Velocity Comics. The book included my short story "Cheaters Never Win."

Just as exciting for me as seeing my story in print was being joined in the anthology by two of my friends, Katharine Hearndon ("365 Ways to Cook Chicken") and J.T. Glover ("Sufficient Pangs").

Every copy of the book's first run sold out last night. I hope Sink/Swim Press will release a second run, and if they do, I'll be sure to let you know. Until then, you won't be able to buy a copy.

We celebrated the book release with some of our friends, and my wife and I didn't get to bed until about one o'clock. Normally, we'd just sleep late to recover, but such was not an option. At 5:45 this morning, we crawled out of bed and drove to Harrisonburg, Virginia, for the Write-Brained Network writers workshop. My wife and I are friends of Ricki Schultz, the founder of the Write-Brained Network. She did a great job organizing the event. It included several folks we've gotten to know well through our work with James River Writers: Tiffany Trent, David L. Robbins, David Kazzie and Clifford Garstang. My wife and I also met fantasy writer Jodi Meadows and her agent Lauren MacLeod. Jodi's debut novel Incarnate comes out January 31st. I've really been looking forward to this book which offers a nice twist on the idea of reincarnation.

If the world keeps recycling the same million souls, then what happens if someone is born who's never had a past life? And what happens to the soul who lost the time of its rebirth?

An advanced reader's copy of the book was given away as part of a drawing at the end of the event, and guess who won it? Heh. I can't wait to read it! My webcomic's cat Frank was just as excited.

Incarnate has generated a lot of buzz. What's really cool for me is that this is the first printed copy of Jodi's book which she has autographed. Not only did she make it out to me and my wife, but to Frank, as well.

The prize from the drawing also included something that has me just as pumped. I won a critique by Tiffany Trent of the first ten pages of my manuscript. That will be a great help as I'm putting the polish to my young adult, vampire hunter novel.

In the meantime, Frank has called dibs on reading Jodi's book first, but after a busy two days, we're off to bed. I don't think Frank plans to let our copy of Incarnate out of his sights anytime soon.

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 27

2011-09-09T16:33:00.000-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode on Wildcat Wednesday!

If you haven't submitted a caption in this week's "You Write the Caption!" contest, then go do it. No, don't keep reading. Just go caption. No, seriously, quit reading and go caption the picture. Dammit. Why are you still reading??? Gah! Fine. Well, just be sure to watch Monday's "Ask Uncle Kerouac" to find out what the winning caption will be.

Frank's Fantasy Football, Season Two Preview

2011-09-08T17:35:00.001-04:00

Can't wait until next week's vlog update on "Frank's Fantasy Football?" Just got to our league's page on NFL.com to follow the action as it happens this weekend.

And while you're waiting for the battle of football follower egos to unfold, why not post a caption in this week's You Write the Caption contest.

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 26

2011-09-07T13:36:00.000-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode on Frank Friday!

Have you submitted a caption in this week's "You Write the Caption!" contest? If not, get to it, people! I'll announce the winning caption in Monday's "Ask Uncle Kerouac."

And tomorrow, find out who will be the eighth fantasy football team owner for this year's league in the Wildcat's Lair.

You Write the Caption, Episode 21

2011-09-06T16:56:00.001-04:00

Today was the first day of school for my daughter and son (Thank God!), and this week's picture for "You Write the Caption" is in honor of this glorious event.

I'll reveal the winning caption on Monday, in the next episode of "Ask Uncle Kerouac." You can check out yesterday's "Ask Uncle Kerouac" to see the winner for last week's caption contest.

Don't forget to catch tomorrow's Wildcat Wednesday episode of my webcomic when Frank and Hip continue their steampunk adventure.

Ask Uncle Kerouac, Episode 22

2011-09-05T22:11:00.000-04:00

The Wildcat's Lair is back after getting knocked out for a week by Hurricane Irene, which leads in perfectly to today's question. Watch and enjoy.

Feel free to share each week's episode of "Ask Uncle Kerouac" by embedding it in your own blogs, Facebook profiles, what have you.

You can also get Uncle Kerouac's advice by sending your questions to him at AskUncleK@gmail.com.

And don't forget to come back tomorrow for the latest picture in our weekly You Write the Caption contest.

Hurricane Irene is a BEE-EYE-TEE-CEE-ACHUH

2011-08-29T15:47:00.001-04:00

Thanks to Hurricane Irene, the Wildcat's Lair is without power right now, and not sure how soon we'll be getting power back. With that in mind, I've made the command decision to give the Lair this week off (translation: Frank refuses to work under these conditions, the lazy bastard cat). Normal insanity will resume Monday, September 5th.

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 25

2011-08-26T07:00:00.000-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

* See previous episode "Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 4"

Catch the next episode on Wildcat Wednesday!

Oh, have you forgotten to submit your caption in this week's "You Write the Caption!" contest. Shame on you, if you have! Go caption it now! I'll announce the winning caption in Monday's "Ask Uncle Kerouac."

And visit the Lair on Facebook to vote on the eighth fantasy football team owner for this year's league in the Wildcat's Lair.

Thursday Randomness: Cheaters Never Win

2011-08-25T13:59:00.003-04:00

Next month will see two of my stories appear in different anthologies. Last week, I unveiled a bit of graphic artwork I created to promote one of those stories entitled "The Deadlands," which will appear in the anthology Four in the Hole. I'll include wallpaper versions of that graphic for your computer at the end of this entry. First off, a few details on the other short story.

I wrote "Cheaters Never Win" back in 2008. It's one of the few pieces of flash fiction I've ever written, coming in at just a little more than 500 words. The story might well be one of the darkest things I've ever written. A husband, having learned his wife has cheated on him, exacts his revenge by forcing her to take part in a deadly game. I don't want to say much more than that, lest I give too much away. After all, there's only so much one can reveal about a flash fiction story.

A local publisher, Sink/Swim Press, is including "Cheaters Never Win" in their anthology Front Porch Flash Fiction. The book comes out September 9th. They're holding a release party that night at Velocity Comics, and I can't wait to go!

I'm also excited about this anthology, because it will include stories from two friends of mine, Katharine Herndon and John Glover. I met John at last year's James River Writers Conference. Speaking of which, Katharine is the chair for this year's JRW Conference, which is being held October 7th and 8th at the Library of Virginia (you can expect me to blog about that as we get closer to the conference). I've known Katharine for many years, and my wife and I were even in a writers critique group with her called "The Ten Page Club" (or "XPC" for short). It was in this group that Katharine read an early version of my other short story, "The Deadlands." Ah, yes... that's how I bring this blog entry back to my other short story.

So, here's the wallpaper for "The Deadlands." I've included the usual sizes for your enjoyment. Nothing makes a computer look more chipper (or would that be "chipperer?") than a picture of the end of the world.

800 X 600 1024 X 768 1280 X 960 1280 X 800

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 24

2011-08-24T11:35:00.002-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

* "International Bureau of Draconic Affairs"

Catch the next episode on Frank Friday!

Don't forget to submit your caption in this week's "You Write the Caption!" contest. I'll announce the winning caption in Monday's "Ask Uncle Kerouac."

And visit the Lair on Facebook to vote on the eighth fantasy football team owner for this year's league in the Wildcat's Lair.

You Write the Caption! Week 20

2011-08-23T12:00:00.000-04:00

I'm noticing that the more obscure pictures seem to produce the most captions, so I gotta think this one from Frank's RavenCon Adventure in 2008 will certainly inspire you. Have at it, folks!

I'll reveal the winning caption on Monday, in the next episode of "Ask Uncle Kerouac." You can check out yesterday's "Ask Uncle Kerouac" to see the winner for last week's caption contest.

Don't forget to catch tomorrow's Wildcat Wednesday episode of my webcomic when Frank and Hip continue their steampunk adventure.

Ask Uncle Kerouac, Episode 21

2011-08-22T15:13:00.001-04:00

Feel free to share each week's episode of "Ask Uncle Kerouac" by embedding it in your own blogs, Facebook profiles, what have you.

And don't forget you can get Uncle Kerouac's advice by sending your questions to him at AskUncleK@gmail.com.

Don't forget to come back tomorrow for the latest picture in our weekly You Write the Caption contest.

And if you haven't voted on who should be the eighth fantasy football team owner for this year's league in the Wildcat's Lair, then go to Facebook now to make your choice known.

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 23

2011-08-19T12:47:00.002-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode on Wildcat Wednesday!

You still have time to submit your caption in this week's "You Write the Caption!" contest. I'll announce the winning caption in Monday's "Ask Uncle Kerouac."

And visit the Lair on Facebook to vote on the eighth fantasy football team owner for this year's league in the Wildcat's Lair.

Thursday Randomness: The Deadlands

2011-08-18T21:20:00.000-04:00

I'm enjoying a bit of a writer's high this year. Two of my short stories will be in different anthologies next month, and just six days ago, I finished the rough draft to my WIP, a young adult novel about a teenage vampire hunter. For today, I'm going to use my "Thursday Randomness" to spend some time plugging one of the short stories, "The Deadlands."

To help promote my story within the anthology Four in the Hole, I created a picture which is inspired by a scene within my story, a shot of Interstate 95 covered in wrecked cars. Yes, when the end of the world arrives, it makes a mess. There's just a small problem here. There's no one place a writer can go to snap a picture of an interstate all messed up like the above picture. Fortunately, I am not just a writer, I'm a graphic artist.

On August 4th, I received the good news in my e-mail about "The Deadlands" being the opening story to an anthology. The next day, the kids piled into the car with me on my quest to build an interstate in total disarray. The part with the kids coming along is clearly the real challenge here, but God bless their hyperactive hearts, they stuck it out like champs. No small task there, because it was a hot day, and all the stuff I needed pictures of was outdoors.

Our first stop was the Hermitage Road overpass to I-95. The kids earned their room and board here, because I couldn't park on the bridge. We went about a block away and hoofed it with my tripod and camera in hand. Ideally, I needed a shot of the interstate without any cars on it. "But wait," you might say, "what about the wrecked cars?" Well, I was going to have to add those in myself, unless I could cook up a way to manufacture a major, mass casualty traffic crash on the spot, and since neither of the kids was willing to jump over to start said chain reaction crash, I was gonna have to add in the wrecked cars later via graphic art magic.

I snapped more than 90 pictures of I-95 and not once was I lucky enough to get a car-free picture of the interstate. Fate did offer me lots of big gaps here and there, so what I did was combine the pictures with the best gaps until I got a relatively car-free picture of I-95.

From there, it was off to find some smashed up cars, and fortunately, I knew the perfect place to find some. Our next stop in this adventure was not a wrecker yard. Oh no. We went to Henrico County's Fire Training facility. Quite a few years ago, I took part in a citizens fire academy, so I knew the Division of Fire kept a bunch of messed up cars out there to practice extracting people who get trapped in car wrecks. Boy, did we ever hit paydirt. Not only did we score messed up cars, but we found a wrecked bus and tanker placed on its side.

Pictures complete, it was back here to my laptop where I cut out the pictures of the cars. Unfortunately, I didn't have enough cars to cover the interstate without reusing a few, but I just changed their color a bit and flipped them around and the like, and more than a week later, even I'm not sure where all the duplicates are in this picture.

Originally, I was going to just have the promotional image be of the smashed up interstate, but wasn't really working for me. I found it looked better when I washed out a lot of the color, so I tossed in an image of what most will only see as some red circle. Obviously, it's not just a circle. It's actually an important element to the story, but you'll have to read "The Deadlands" to find out exactly what it is.

All that done, it was time to add in the promotional elements: the title of my story, a tagline and when it's coming out--which is next month. I made a few versions of this, one to put at the end of my comic strips, another for the side panel of the Lair and of course, wallpaper for computer screens everywhere.

Next week, I'll post the wallpapers for your computers, and I'll offer a little insight into the other anthology my writing will appear in next month. Be sure to revisit the Lair then, and don't forget to catch the next episode of my comic strip tomorrow.

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 22

2011-08-17T12:23:00.005-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode on Frank Friday!

And don't forget to submit your caption in this week's "You Write the Caption!" contest. I'll announce the winning caption in Monday's "Ask Uncle Kerouac."

And go to Facebook to vote on the eighth fantasy football team owner for this year's league in the Wildcat's Lair.

You Write the Caption! Week 19

2011-08-16T12:00:00.001-04:00

This week's picture finds Frank in a less than pleasant position. Have fun getting a laugh at his furry, shackled expense.

I'll reveal the winning caption on Monday, in the next episode of "Ask Uncle Kerouac." You can check out yesterday's "Ask Uncle Kerouac" to see the winner for last week's caption contest.

Don't forget to catch tomorrow's Wildcat Wednesday episode of my webcomic when Frank and Hip continue their steampunk adventure.

Ask Uncle Kerouac, Episode 20

2011-08-15T23:00:00.001-04:00

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 21

2011-08-12T15:27:00.004-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode on Wildcat Wednesday!

And don't forget to submit your caption in this week's "You Write the Caption!" contest. I'll announce the winning caption in Monday's "Ask Uncle Kerouac."

And go to Facebook to vote on the eighth fantasy football team owner for this year's league in the Wildcat's Lair.

Thursday Randomness: Wildcat's Daughter Dances

2011-08-11T20:57:00.002-04:00

My daughter was hoping Disney would post this video of her dancing, but since they were too lame to do it, I get to post it here. Take that, you big-eared freak (no I'm talking to Mickey, not myself).

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 20

2011-08-10T22:36:00.004-04:00

You Write the Caption! Week 18

2011-08-09T12:00:00.001-04:00

This week's picture takes us back to last year's infamous "Lost in London" storyline. A picture might be worth a thousand words, but you can probably make it funnier with far less than that. Have at it!

I'll reveal the winning caption on Monday, in the next episode of "Ask Uncle Kerouac." You can check out yesterday's "Ask Uncle Kerouac" to see the winner for last week's caption contest.

Don't forget to catch tomorrow's Wildcat Wednesday episode of my webcomic when Frank and Hip continue their steampunk adventure.

Ask Uncle Kerouac, Episode 19

2011-08-08T20:10:00.001-04:00

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 19

2011-08-05T12:00:00.004-04:00

Thursday Randomness: Wildcat in an Anthology!

2011-08-04T17:28:00.008-04:00

I've got some exciting news for today's "Thursday Randomness." I learned this morning that one of my short stories will appear in an upcoming anthology called FOUR IN THE HOLE being published by May December Publications.

My story is called "The Deadlands." What is the story about? I won't offer any specifics just yet, but I will tell you that the theme behind this collection was zombies and/or vampires.

As we get closer to the release date, which will likely be sometime next month, I'll drop more details about my story.

For now, here's a look at what I believe will be the cover art for FOUR IN THE HOLE.

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 18

2011-08-03T12:00:00.003-04:00

You Write the Caption! Week 17

2011-08-02T12:00:00.002-04:00

I dipped way back in the archives for last week's picture, so I decided to venture back a little further for this week's. Captions away!

I'll reveal the winning caption on Monday, in the next episode of "Ask Uncle Kerouac." You can check out yesterday's "Ask Uncle Kerouac" to see the winner for last week's caption contest. The captions for last week were a riot, so I can't wait to see what all of you come up with for this week's picture!

Don't forget to catch tomorrow's Wildcat Wednesday episode of my webcomic when Frank and Hip continue their steampunk adventure.

Ask Uncle Kerouac, Episode 18

2011-08-01T12:00:00.002-04:00

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 17

2011-07-29T12:00:00.002-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode on Wildcat Wednesday!

And don't forget to submit your caption in this week's "You Write the Caption!" contest. This week's picture has really been getting some good captions, so jump in to the fray. I'll announce the winning caption in Monday's "Ask Uncle Kerouac."

Thursday Randomness: Frank & Hip Get SteamPUNKED

2011-07-28T14:48:00.002-04:00

We're two months into the "Frank & Hip Get SteamPUNKED" storyline, and I realize it's been a while since I posted some new wallpaper. Figured now was as good a time as any. Been using the below picture as my wallpaper for a while now. Not that there haven't been a lot of wallpaper-worthy pictures in this storyline, but I just really liked the variety of colors in this picture. I've been sure to provide all of the appropriate sizes, so enjoy!

800 X 600 1024 X 768 1280 X 960 1280 X 800

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 16

2011-07-27T21:43:00.004-04:00

You Write the Caption! Week 16

2011-07-26T13:18:00.002-04:00

I dipped way back in the archives for this picture. Have fun with it!

I'll reveal the winning caption on Monday, in the next episode of "Ask Uncle Kerouac." You can check out yesterday's "Ask Uncle Kerouac" to see the winner for last week's caption contest.

Don't forget to catch tomorrow's Wildcat Wednesday episode of my webcomic when Frank and Hip continue their steampunk adventure.

Ask Uncle Kerouac, Episode 17

2011-07-25T17:32:00.001-04:00

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 15

2011-07-22T12:09:00.003-04:00

Thursday Randomness: The Invention of Golf

2011-07-21T12:00:00.001-04:00

Just because I was thinking about this the other day, I give you Robin Williams on Golf. If you can't laugh at this, I weep for you.

Be sure to come back tomorrow for the next episode on of Frank and Hip's Steampunk adventure.

And don't forget to submit your caption in this week's "You Write the Caption!" contest.

And while you're at it, quit pretending you don't need advice to get through life! You know who you are. Send in your questions to Frank's Uncle Kerouac (AskUncleK@gmail.com) for his rare blend of advice, every Monday in "The Wildcat's Lair."

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 14

2011-07-20T12:17:00.003-04:00

You Write the Caption! Week 15

2011-07-19T12:37:00.001-04:00

I expect some exceptional captions for this picture.

I'll reveal the winning caption on Monday, in the next episode of "Ask Uncle Kerouac." Sorry for the lack of an "Ask Uncle Kerouac" episode yesterday, but you can thank my son's kidney stone for the interruption (poor guy!). Glad to say that he is doing much better now.

Don't forget to catch tomorrow's Wildcat Wednesday episode of my webcomic when Frank and Hip continue their steampunk adventure.

CLASSIC EPISODE: Frank Gets Medieval, Episode II

2011-07-15T12:00:00.000-04:00

"Frank Gets Medieval, Episode II"
Originally posted: 18 June 2008

Sorry for the lack of a new episode today, I'll have fresh episodes again starting Wednesday. My wife and I had to run out of town for a family emergency earlier this week. Thankfully, everything seems as though it will be all right. With all that in mind, I think I can safely say I won't be posting an "Ask Uncle Kerouac" on Monday. If I can get the time to produce one, it will go online on Tuesday.

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 13

2011-07-13T12:00:00.004-04:00

You Write the Caption! Week 14

2011-07-12T12:00:00.000-04:00

This week's picture for "You Write the Caption!" pays homage to that crazy card game, "Killer Bunnies." Let's see what all of you can do with Uncle Kerouac's killer hand.

I'll reveal the winning caption on Monday, in the next edition of "Ask Uncle Kerouac." To find out who had the winning caption in last week's caption contest, check out yesterday's "Ask Uncle Kerouac."

Don't forget to catch tomorrow's Wildcat Wednesday episode of my webcomic when Frank and Hip continue their steampunk adventure.

Ask Uncle Kerouac, Episode 16

2011-07-11T13:41:00.001-04:00

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 12

2011-07-08T12:00:00.002-04:00

Thursday Randomness: My Drunk 4th of July

2011-07-07T17:57:00.002-04:00

I don't care if the Fourth of July is already over. This is still funny.

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 11

2011-07-06T16:42:00.006-04:00

You Write the Caption! Week 13

2011-07-05T14:49:00.003-04:00

Time, once again, for "You Write the Caption!" I must admit that last week's captions were really good, so I can't wait to see what you all do with this one. Have at it!

I'll reveal the winning caption on Monday, in the next edition of "Ask Uncle Kerouac." To find out who had the winning caption in last week's caption contest, check out yesterday's "Ask Uncle Kerouac."

Don't forget to catch tomorrow's Wildcat Wednesday episode of my webcomic when Frank and Hip continue their steampunk adventure.

Ask Uncle Kerouac, Episode 15

2011-07-04T18:17:00.002-04:00

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 10

2011-07-01T13:33:00.003-04:00

Thursday Randomness: Transformers and Generic Brands

2011-06-30T13:47:00.005-04:00

For today's "Thursday Randomness," I'm just sharing a bit of insight from my wife in regards to the new "Transformers" film. While watching a commercial for "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" last night, she offered the following remark about the replacement of Megan Fox by Rosie Huntington-Whiteley (good luck saying that name three times fast).

"We all know she's just the K-Mart version...

"...of the Wal-Mart generic."

I about spit my drink when she said that, I was laughing so hard.

And yes, I basically considered this a good excuse to post pictures of Megan Fox and a Victoria's Secret's model on my blog.

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 9

2011-06-29T14:04:00.003-04:00

You Write the Caption! Week 12

2011-06-28T14:31:00.003-04:00

Time for another round of "You Write the Caption!" Gotta say, I think this might be a tough one.

I'll reveal the winning caption on Monday, in the next edition of "Ask Uncle Kerouac." To find out who had the winning caption in last week's caption contest, check out the "Ask Uncle Kerouac" I posted earlier today.

Don't forget to catch tomorrow's Wildcat Wednesday episode of my webcomic when Frank and Hip continue their steampunk adventure.

Ask Uncle Kerouac, Episode 14

2011-06-28T14:25:00.000-04:00

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 8

2011-06-24T18:19:00.004-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode on Wildcat Wednesday!

And don't forget to submit your caption in this week's "You Write the Caption!" contest.

Thursday Randomness: Before & After

2011-06-23T13:53:00.003-04:00

For today's Thursday Randomness, I'm showing off some of my graphic art skills. Doing this comic strip for several years now has really done a lot to improve my work. There's been a lot of trial and error, sadly with some of the errors making it online, but for the most part, I think some of what I do has turned out really well. On occasion, I even hit a grand slam. I think the episodes I posted yesterday and this past Friday fall into that latter category where I really nailed it.

For my steampunk version of Richmond, I went down to the Shockoe Bottom area which has a lot of cobblestone streets and snapped some pictures. This happened on an overcast Sunday, which worked out well since it not only kept things from being too bright but also limited the number of cars and foot traffic. Here are some "before-and-after" pictures of what I did.

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 7

2011-06-22T13:16:00.003-04:00

You Write the Caption! Week 11

2011-06-21T23:17:00.003-04:00

Uhga! Wildcat post picture. Readers post caption. Ugha!

(Translated from Cavespeak: Here's this week's picture for "You Write the Caption!")

I'll reveal the winning caption on Monday, in the next edition of "Ask Uncle Kerouac." To find out who had the winning caption in last week's caption contest, check out yesterday's Ask Uncle Kerouac."

Don't forget to catch tomorrow's Wildcat Wednesday episode of my webcomic when Frank and Hip continue their steampunk adventure.

Ask Uncle Kerouac, Episode 13

2011-06-20T23:15:00.001-04:00

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 6

2011-06-17T12:00:00.004-04:00

Thursday Randomness: Cat in Tank

2011-06-16T12:00:00.003-04:00

Sometimes, I look at the goofy stuff I do here in the Wildcat's Lair, and I think I must have way too much time on my hands. Then I watch a video like this.

Cats in Tanks from Whitehouse Post on Vimeo.

This just supports my firm belief that cats are evil. Special thanks to one of my co-workers Adam, who sent me the link to this one.

Now, go submit a caption for this week's "Star Wars" inspired ""You Write the Caption!" And don't miss tomorrow's Frank Friday webcomic with the latest in the "Frank & Hip Get Steampunked" storyline.

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 5

2011-06-15T12:00:00.006-04:00

You Write the Caption! Week 10

2011-06-14T12:00:00.001-04:00

All right, folks. If this one can't provide a bunch of great caption jokes, I don't know a picture that can. So have at it with this week's "You Write the Caption!"

I'll reveal the winning caption on Monday, in the next edition of "Ask Uncle Kerouac." To find out who had the winning caption in last week's caption contest, check out yesterday's Ask Uncle Kerouac."

Don't forget to catch tomorrow's Wildcat Wednesday episode of my webcomic when Frank and Hip continue their steampunk adventure.

Ask Uncle Kerouac, Episode 12

2011-06-13T13:58:00.000-04:00

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 4

2011-06-10T12:00:00.005-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode of "The Wildcat's Lair" on Wildcat Wednesday!

And catch the latest episode of "Ask Uncle Kerouac" on Monday. If you want his advice, just e-mail your question to "AskUncleK@gmail.com."

Thursday Randomness: What's Old is New Again

2011-06-09T12:00:00.003-04:00

For this Thursday's Randomness, I'm going back in time. WAAAAAAAAAAY back. This WebComic started in July of 2005 as nothing but a reading blog. This was going to be my way of keeping track of the books I read and what I thought about them. As you can see, things changed. This is what happens when you introduce a cat into an environment.

Frank made his first appearance in the Wildcat's Lair on October 26, 2005. I created a banner for my blog (pictured below). His original role was as nothing but a mascot, but cats are never satisfied playing second fiddle. After that, it didn't take Frank long to take over the entire blog.

The first "WebComic" I did with Frank was posted less than a month later on November 19th. The episode, while somewhat apocryphal, was called "The Wildcat's Cafe Mocha Adventure." The episode contained the usual pictures with word balloons, but I also padded it with several paragraphs to bridge the gaps in the story.

Frank's adventures didn't gain any true consistency until May of 2008. Up until that point, I'd created fifty episodes. Most of those fifty episodes can be found here, but not all. The reason? The Wildcat's Lair originated as an AIM blog. This Blogger site started as a mirror version of the original Lair in May of 2006. As some of you AIM blogger refugees know full well, the AIM blogs went kaput in late 2008. Thanks to the mirror site (now the official home of the Wildcat's Lair), most of Frank's adventures from the AIM blog days were still online over here--but not all of them.

No, when the original lair went dark in November 2008, the original eleven episodes of Frank's misadventures went away. I created a "Wildcat's Lair Archives" with the intent of posting all of its blog entries, but as my blog had turned into a WebComic, I didn't see the point and left it to collect virtual dust. I did eventually post that first episode "The Wildcat's Cafe Mocha Adventure," but never got around to the other ten episodes.

Until now.

Earlier this week, I was wondering how many episodes I've done with Frank. Counting them was not a simple task, and as I worked my way backwards in time, I finally came to those lost episodes from 2005 and 2006. I realized it was way past time to get them re-posted.

Those early episodes include the original Bracket Battle from March of 2006, which was only between me and Frank. It's worth noting that Frank won that year. There's also a Christmas episode where Frank's family (with the notable exception of his parents and sister) visit the Lair, and chaos ensues. It's certainly worth a visit to see how my comic strip has evolved from those original episodes and to see just how much hair I've really lost in the past six years.

Oh, and the total number of episodes? As of yesterday's third episode in the "Frank & Hip Get Steampunked" storyline, the total is 348.

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 3

2011-06-08T12:00:00.005-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode of "The Wildcat's Lair" on Frank Friday!

And if you haven't posted a caption for this week's "You Write the Caption!," then get off your posterior and go do it! Work those funny muscles (just try to keep both hands on the keyboard, please)!

You Write the Caption! Week 9

2011-06-07T12:00:00.001-04:00

It's time to break out your funniest lines for this week's "You Write the Caption!" So here's the picture... Now get captioning!

I'll reveal the winning caption on Monday, in the next edition of "Ask Uncle Kerouac." To find out who had the winning caption in last week's caption contest, check out yesterday's Ask Uncle Kerouac."

Don't forget to catch tomorrow's Wildcat Wednesday episode of my webcomic when Frank and Hip continue their steampunk adventure.

Ask Uncle Kerouac, Episode 11

2011-06-06T16:25:00.001-04:00

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 2

2011-06-03T12:00:00.007-04:00

If you'd like to catch this storyline from the first episode, just go here.

Catch the next episode of "The Wildcat's Lair" on Wildcat Wednesday!

You also still have time to leave a caption for this week's "You Write the Caption!" And if you need some advice with anything from relationship woes to ridding yourself of bellybutton lint, don't forget to e-mail your question to Uncle Kerouac at "AskUncleK@gmail.com!"

Thursday Randomness: Translated for the Waffles-Impaired

2011-06-02T12:00:00.002-04:00

So this past Tuesday, Waffles filled in for Uncle Kerouac in this week's "Ask Uncle Kerouac." Of course, nothing he said made any sense. So with that in mind, here's a translation for the Waffles-impaired in this week's "Thursday Randomness."

Frank & Hip Get Steampunked, Episode 1

2011-06-01T01:43:00.005-04:00

Catch the next episode of "The Wildcat's Lair" on Frank Friday!

And don't forget to leave a caption for this week's "You Write the Caption!"