Throwback Thursday: From the Shreveport Cabin to Striped Coast Studios
Looking Back to Move Forward
It’s been a long haul since those first notes on the Urland Universe back in the 1980s. When I look back at the decades of storytelling that led me to this moment, I see more than just game mechanics and star charts; I see a life’s work. This Thursday, I’m reflecting on that foundation. The Urland Universe was born of my own imagination, a completely independent creation that started decades ago. It is the bedrock of my writing and the soul of everything I do today.
But lately, the journey has taken me through some dark and difficult valleys. I’ve been absent from the website for a while, and it wasn't by choice. I’ve been battling serious illness and navigating personal issues that stepped directly into my path. It wasn't easy. There were many mornings in the Shreveport cabin where the keyboard felt miles away, and the strength to create felt like it had been pulled out with the tide. During those times, the silence on this blog wasn't for a lack of vision, but a period of testing and endurance.
The New Flagship: Striped Coast Studios
However, the story doesn't end in the valley. Thanks to God's help in all things—He who guides my hand and my heart—I have persevered. I didn't just spend that time recovering; I spent it building. I used those quiet hours to solidify the vision for my new flagship: Striped Coast Studios. I am proud to finally announce that the studio is officially up and running! We have launched our new digital home at stripedcoaststudios.store, and we are establishing our publishing presence across the worldwide web.
This studio is the vehicle for everything I’ve built over the last forty years. It represents a rebirth of my creative drive and a commitment to getting my work into the hands of those who appreciate high-seas adventure and deep, imaginative lore. I am coming back with a renewed sense of purpose. The challenges of the past few months have only served to sharpen my focus. I am back at the helm, I am stronger, and I am ready to lead Striped Coast Studios into this new era of independent publishing.
The Word for Today: A Devotional on Perseverance
Scripture: Isaiah 41:10 — "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
Reflection: When we face illness or personal trials, it is easy to feel "dismayed." Dismay is that sinking feeling that the storm is bigger than the ship. But this promise reminds us that our strength doesn't have to come from our own tired hands. When I couldn't find the strength to write, I had to rely on the "righteous right hand" of the One who guides me. Perseverance isn't just about trying harder; it’s about trusting more.
God doesn't just watch us from a distance; He upholds us. As I launch Striped Coast Studios, I do so knowing that every step forward is supported by His grace. If you are in a valley today, do not fear. The same hand that carried me through the illness is reaching out to uphold you, too. Stay the course, keep the faith, and watch how He turns your period of recovery into a season of building.

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