Phicklephilly 2 is the sequel to the best-selling book, Phicklephilly: One Man’s Journey to Find Love in Philadelphia.
In the first book, our hero returned to the city in search of the perfect girlfriend. It was a funny, and sometimes heart-wrenching tale of a man trying to navigate the pitfalls of the modern dating world. After two failed relationships, he turns to online dating. He goes on several crazy dates but finally finds a woman he really likes. She’s a bright, unique beauty, but like all relationships, they face several challenges.
Phicklephilly 2 continues his journey and walks you through what it’s like being in a relationship and the dynamics that play out inside of city living. But several factors work against them both at every step. Will the couple survive the pitfalls and demands of being in an exclusive committed relationship?
He doesn’t always do what’s right, but neither does she. This is his own intimate story of what that’s been like for him. Join him to see if he wins… or loses again. There are always three sides to every story. His side, her side… and the truth.
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You can get your copy here:
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Thanks to everyone who bought this book!
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Here is the complete collection of all of the Crazy Dating Stories books in one anthology. If you like reading about true stories about dates from hell, then you’re in for a treat. I dare you not to laugh at these insane tales from my life in the dating world over the last 30 years.
Sometimes funny, sometimes stomach-churning, it’s all here in its uncensored glory for your reading pleasure! You’ve been warned!
In “CRAZY DATING STORIES,” embark on a rollercoaster journey through the unpredictable landscape of modern romance. Brace yourself for a whirlwind of hilarious mishaps, unexpected connections, and jaw-dropping encounters that will leave you laughing, cringing, and nodding in empathetic understanding.
As our intrepid author navigates the wild world of dating, you’ll find yourself immersed in tales of comical misunderstandings, awkward encounters, and heartwarming moments of connection. From disastrous blind dates to unexpected serendipity, these stories will have you questioning the very nature of love and human connection. But “CRAZY DATING STORIES” isn’t just about the misadventures; it’s a journey of self-discovery.
Along the way, you’ll witness our author’s growth, resilience, and the enduring hope that keeps them diving headfirst into the dating pool, no matter how many curveballs life throws their way.
So, prepare to laugh, gasp, and perhaps even shed a tear as you delve into the pages of this candid, entertaining, and ultimately heartwarming collection of dating escapades. “CRAZY DATING STORIES” is a testament to the enduring spirit of those who dare to seek love in the face of chaos.
You can get it here:
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Thanks to the brave souls who bought this hilarious book!
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This is where it all began! My very first published book!
Love at first swipe! One man’s story of returning to Philadelphia in search of the perfect girlfriend. Will he succeed or fail miserably in his quest to find love in this city?
This is a funny and sometimes heart-wrenching tale of a man trying to navigate the pitfalls of the modern dating world in the city of Philadelphia in the mid-2000s.
You can get a copy of my first published book here:
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Top review from the United States for PHICKLEPHILLY
Reviewed in the United States on February 18, 2020
I love this teaser. I found Phicklephilly online when he first started blogging, and I have not been disappointed. He had me at the post where he was hanging out with a beautiful woman he works with and having to carry around a large banner from a work event. He’s fun, thoughtful, and provides lots of life experience advice.
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Thanks to everyone who bought this book!
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Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.
In the shadows of my past, I once grappled with a vampiric bloodlust, an insatiable craving for the twin elixirs of alcohol and the transient thrill of youthful female company. It was a curse that enveloped my existence, casting a long and haunting shadow over the years. However, as dawn breaks on a new chapter, I find myself liberated from those chains, the vampiric allure fading into insignificance.
For far too long, I danced on the precipice of a hedonistic existence, drawn to the ephemeral euphoria that the pairing of alcohol and youthful exuberance seemed to promise. The allure of the night held me in its tight embrace, and I, like a vampire seeking sustenance, pursued my desires relentlessly.
Yet, a silent battle is waged within the depths of this nocturnal existence. The more I indulged, the more the vampiric cravings grew, gnawing at the edges of my sanity. It was a cycle of self-destruction, a dance with shadows that threatened to consume the very essence of who I was.
Then came a moment of clarity, a realization that the pursuit of ephemeral pleasure was robbing me of lasting peace. I stood at a crossroads, faced with a choice between the intoxicating allure of the night and the serene embrace of inner tranquility. At that moment, I chose peace.
Breaking free from the vampiric bloodlust was not a sudden vanquishing of demons; rather, it was a gradual shedding of layers that no longer served my highest self. The allure of alcohol lost its grip, and the quest for youthful companionship waned as I discovered the richness of solitude and self-reflection.
The curse lifted, and with it, a newfound clarity emerged. Sobriety became my ally, and the pursuit of genuine connections took precedence over the transient thrill of the night. In choosing peace over euphoria, I unearthed a reservoir of strength within myself that I never knew existed.
My life once ensnared in the web of vampiric desires, now unfolds with a simplicity that brings joy to my soul. The cacophony of the night has been replaced by the quietude of self-discovery, and the need for external validations has given way to a profound sense of inner contentment.
As the vampiric cravings fade into the recesses of memory, I find solace in the peace that accompanies this newfound chapter. The journey from bloodlust to tranquility is a personal triumph and a testament to the transformative power of choice.
In sharing this narrative, I hope to inspire others in similar struggles. There is strength in choosing a path aligned with inner peace, and liberation awaits those brave enough to break free from the vampiric chains that bind them. May the dawn of a new day bring with it the promise of healing, self-discovery, and lasting peace.
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In the quest for a long and fulfilling life, we often focus on diet and exercise, and rightly so. A balanced diet and regular physical activity are essential for maintaining good health. However, there’s more to longevity than just what you eat and how much you move. In this blog post, we’ll explore the often-overlooked factors that contribute to a long and vibrant life: human interaction, fulfilling work, and the importance of family and friends as a sense of community.
The Power of Human Interaction
1. Staying Socially Connected: Human beings are social creatures, and our well-being is intricately linked to our interactions with others. Strong social connections can lead to a longer and healthier life. Whether it’s spending time with friends and family, participating in group activities, or volunteering in your community, maintaining relationships and connections is a key factor in longevity.
2. A Sense of Community: Beyond individual relationships, a sense of community can provide a network of support and belonging. Knowing that you are part of something larger, whether it’s your neighborhood, a shared interest group, or a close-knit community, can offer a profound sense of unity and purpose.
The Importance of Family and Friends
1. Lifelong Bonds: The bonds we share with our family and friends are often some of the most enduring relationships in our lives. These connections offer emotional support, companionship, and a sense of belonging. Nurturing these bonds can contribute to a happier and longer life.
2. Shared Experiences: Family and friends provide opportunities to share experiences, both the joys and the challenges. These shared moments create lasting memories and strengthen the sense of community. Whether celebrating achievements or offering a shoulder to lean on during tough times, these shared experiences enhance our well-being.
The Role of Fulfilling Work
1. Mental Stimulation: Staying mentally active is crucial as we age. Engaging in work that challenges your mind and creativity keeps your cognitive functions sharp. Whether it’s pursuing a career, engaging in a hobby, or working on a personal project, stimulating your brain is an essential component of a long and healthy life.
2. Feeling Needed: Knowing that your work or contributions are valued and needed can provide a strong sense of purpose. Feeling needed is a powerful motivator, and it encourages individuals to stay active, both physically and mentally. The satisfaction of being essential to a group, project, or cause can have a profound impact on longevity.
Living in the Present
Staying present in the moment and appreciating the here and now is another key element in the quest for a long life. Engage in mindfulness practices, and meditation, or simply take a moment each day to savor the beauty and experiences around you. Stress reduction and a positive outlook on life have been linked to increased longevity.
A Glass of Wine, in Moderation
It’s no secret that enjoying a glass of wine can be a delightful and relaxing experience. In moderation, wine may even offer some health benefits, such as heart health and stress reduction. While it’s essential to be mindful of alcohol consumption, a little indulgence can indeed add to the quality of life.
Conclusion
In the pursuit of a long and fulfilling life, remember that diet and exercise are just part of the equation. Embrace human interaction, cultivate a sense of purpose, and stay mentally and emotionally engaged with the world around you. By living in the present, feeling needed, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures within a community of family and friends, you can unlock the secrets to a healthier and more joyful journey on this remarkable planet. And yes, a glass of wine in good company can be the perfect finishing touch to a life well-lived.
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In the grand theater of life, there seem to be two distinct roles: the survivors of the wild and the inhabitants of the zoo. For much of my existence, I found myself trapped in the latter category, living a life confined within the boundaries of routine and predictability. Day in and day out, I roamed the well-trodden paths of the zoo, following the same patterns, performing the same tasks, and interacting with the same characters. It was comfortable, it was familiar, but deep down, I knew I was meant for something more.
Like a caged bird yearning for the open sky, I harbored an innate desire to break free from the confines of my surroundings and explore the untamed wilderness beyond. The call of the wild beckoned to me, urging me to venture into uncharted territory, to test my mettle against the forces of nature, and to discover the true extent of my capabilities.
Several years ago, fueled by a burning desire for change and a thirst for adventure, I made the daring decision to leave behind the safety and security of the zoo and embark on a journey into the unknown. It was a leap of faith, a leap into the great unknown, but it was a leap that I knew I had to take.
As I stepped out into the vast expanse of the wild, I felt a surge of exhilaration coursing through my veins. Every step I took, every breath I drew, was a testament to my newfound freedom and resilience. In the wild, there were no safety nets, no rules to follow, and no limits to what I could achieve. It was a place where survival depended not on conformity, but on adaptability, resourcefulness, and sheer determination.
Today, as I look back on my journey from the confines of the zoo to the boundless expanse of the wild, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and accomplishment. I may have started as an inhabitant of the zoo, but I have emerged as a survivor of the wild – a testament to the indomitable spirit that resides within each and every one of us.
So, to all those who find themselves trapped in the cages of conformity and routine, I urge you to listen to the call of the wild echoing deep within your soul. Break free from the shackles of the familiar, embrace the unknown, and discover the untapped potential that lies dormant within you. For in the wilderness of life, it is not the zoo dwellers who thrive, but the brave souls who dare to roam free.
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In the ebb and flow of life, there are days when we ponder our place in the world, our emotions, and the question, “How do I feel today?” It’s a question that often leads to introspection and self-discovery. In this blog post, I explore the profound idea that staying busy, being useful, and remaining needed can provide a powerful sense of purpose and fulfillment in our lives.
The Importance of Staying Busy
Staying busy doesn’t necessarily mean constantly rushing through tasks or overwhelming ourselves with a never-ending to-do list. It’s about having a sense of direction and engagement. Keeping our minds and bodies occupied with activities that align with our interests and goals can bring a deep sense of satisfaction. Whether it’s pursuing a hobby, working on a project, or simply being present at the moment, staying busy can infuse our lives with meaning.
The Fulfillment of Being Useful
One of the most profound sources of joy comes from feeling useful and making a positive impact on others. Helping someone in need, sharing our knowledge, or contributing to a cause greater than ourselves is a path to fulfillment. Being useful not only benefits those around us but also boosts our self-esteem and creates a sense of purpose that transcends personal desires.
Serving the Community
Serving the community is a noble endeavor that can provide a strong sense of purpose. Volunteering, engaging in acts of kindness, or participating in community projects can be incredibly rewarding. These actions foster a sense of belonging, and they demonstrate that we’re interconnected with the world around us. Our contributions, no matter how small, make a difference in the lives of others.
The Power of Having a Mission
Having a mission is like having a guiding star in the vast sky of life. It gives us a clear sense of direction and a compelling reason to wake up each day. Our mission may involve personal growth, career goals, or a dedication to a cause. It provides focus, motivation, and a profound sense of purpose that transcends the ordinary.
The Ongoing Quest for Meaning
Life’s journey is an ongoing quest for meaning, and our feelings can often serve as compasses to guide us. While introspection about how we feel is essential, it’s equally crucial to recognize that staying busy, being useful, and staying needed can be a fundamental source of meaning and fulfillment.
Conclusion
In the tapestry of life, the threads of staying busy, being useful, and staying needed weave a profound sense of purpose. While our emotions may fluctuate, the commitment to these principles can provide a lasting foundation for a meaningful and fulfilling life. It’s a reminder that our existence holds the potential to make a difference, no matter how big or small, and to leave a positive mark on the world. So, today and every day, let us stay busy, stay useful, and stay needed because we are alive, and that, in itself, is a gift to be cherished.
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In the intricate dance of life, five essential elements emerge as pillars, supporting the structure of a genuinely happy and fulfilling existence. These elements, when woven together, create a tapestry of well-being that goes beyond mere survival. Here are the fundamental keys to unlocking a truly happy life:
Your Health
The cornerstone of happiness rests on the foundation of good health. Physical and mental well-being lay the groundwork for all other aspects of life. Nurturing your body and mind allows you to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and vigor.
Something to Do – Passion and Purpose
Engaging in meaningful activities gives life purpose and direction. Whether it’s a career, a charitable endeavor, or a personal passion, having something that fuels your enthusiasm and contributes to a greater cause adds depth and richness to your daily experiences.
Good People in Your Life
Surrounding yourself with positive, supportive individuals is essential. Genuine connections and healthy relationships provide a network of emotional support, encouragement, and shared joy. Cultivate connections that uplift and inspire, creating a nurturing environment for personal growth.
To Love and Be Loved
Love, both given and received, is a powerful force that propels the human experience. Cherish the relationships that bring love into your life, whether it’s familial, romantic, or platonic. Embracing love fosters emotional well-being and creates a sense of belonging.
Something to Look Forward To
Anticipation adds a spark to life. Having something to look forward to – be it a future goal, a planned adventure, or a simple pleasure – injects excitement into your journey. It provides motivation and a positive outlook, turning each day into a step toward a brighter future.
While these five elements form a strong framework for a happy life, it’s essential to recognize that happiness is subjective and unique to each individual. Continuously explore, adapt, and personalize these keys to align with your evolving understanding of joy and fulfillment.
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In a world seemingly obsessed with calendars, dates, and the ever-ticking clock, it’s time to embark on a journey of self-discovery that challenges our conventional notions of age and the pace at which we age. Have you ever paused to consider that maybe the number of trips you’ve taken around the sun doesn’t truly define your age or the vitality you feel inside? Let’s explore this intriguing idea that age is not merely a number but a unique combination of genetics, health, attitude, and perspective.
The Sun’s Orbit vs. Your Inner Clock
Traditionally, we’ve marked the passing of years based on our planet’s journey around the sun. However, this celestial voyage may not tell the whole story of how we age. In reality, it’s our individual genetic makeup, lifestyle choices, and overall well-being that contribute significantly to our experience of aging.
Genetics: The DNA Blueprint
Our genetic code plays a profound role in how our bodies and minds age. Some individuals carry genetic traits that promote longevity and health, allowing them to feel and function more youthfully as they accumulate birthdays. Genetics may indeed hold the key to the ageless spirit within you.
Lifestyle Matters: Diet and Exercise
The choices we make regarding our diet and physical activity can either accelerate or decelerate the aging process. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and an active lifestyle have been shown to promote physical and mental well-being, potentially slowing the hands of time.
Attitude Is Everything
Your outlook on life can be a powerful age-defying elixir. A positive attitude, a zest for learning, and an open-minded approach to new experiences can help maintain a youthful mindset and encourage a more vibrant existence.
Different Strokes for Different Folks
Each of us is a unique blend of genetics, experiences, and perspectives. What makes you, well, you, might also contribute to the pace at which you age. Embrace your individuality, as it might be the secret sauce that keeps you feeling youthful.
Connections Across Generations
Your ability to connect with people of various ages and backgrounds is a testament to your adaptability and openness. Interacting with younger generations can foster a sense of vitality and enthusiasm that transcends traditional notions of age.
Cherishing Youthful Energy
The joy of spending time with younger individuals, whether it’s enjoying their enthusiasm, curiosity, or unique perspectives, can be invigorating. It’s a reminder that youthfulness is not confined to a specific age group; it’s a state of mind.
Embracing the Ageless Spirit
So, why should you let a number dictate how young or old you feel? Embrace the idea that age is not defined by years alone. It’s a harmonious blend of genetics, lifestyle choices, attitude, and a spirit that defies the limitations of time. Your age is as unique as you are, a testament to a life well-lived and a future filled with the promise of continued vitality. So, let the calendar pages turn; you’ll be too busy enjoying life’s adventures to care.
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What a year it’s been! A lot has happened and I’m going to touch on the highlights of 2023.
I’ve been writing this blog for over 7 years now. 2023 has been a great year with many changes.
My daughter moved out after living with me for 8 years! She now lives in New Jersey with her boyfriend. (They’ve been together for over 9 years!) As much as I miss her, we see each other at least once a month, and make an effort every couple of months to meet up, chat, and have dinner. She continues to grow as a musician and producer and I’m so proud of her for following her dream!
I’ve been enjoying my solitude once again here in Rittenhouse. I used to live a wild and busy life here in Philly, but now I enjoy living a quiet existence. I’m happy to wake up feeling energized, cooking my breakfast, and going to my job at the hardware store a block and a half away from my home.
I rarely go out anymore and enjoy just coming home, cooking my dinner, and watching my shows at night before bed. But I do find the time most mornings to write my blog or work on some new literary idea.
I love my job and all of the people I work with are great. I don’t miss the grind of corporate life where I spent most of my adult life toiling away doing jobs for people I didn’t really like. But as I gently stroll toward retirement I enjoy the work I do and serving the community’s needs. Unlike my former careers in banking and advertising where all of my daily focus was on developing new business and generating revenue, my current vocation allows my mind to wander into more creative endeavors.
I’ve also cleared my life of all the toxic people who once haunted my existence. It’s a tough decision to make but you really have to search your heart and focus on what you want your life to look like. If anyone in your life doesn’t make you feel good… cut them loose. They’re only dragging you down. They’re not bad people, just no longer for me. I won’t compromise my peace of mind for temporary pleasure. I’ve also learned to say NO. Try it. It’s great.
After the wonderful success of my 2022 book,LAWNDALE, 2023 saw the release of my sixth non-fiction work, Down The Shore, a collection of stories from my summers in Wildwood, New Jersey in the 70s.
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Unlike Lawndale, initially, it didn’t sell as well or as fast. I did a load of marketing for Down the Shore, but it limped along. But after much effort, a podcast, an article on WMMR’s website, and a terrific article in the Cape May County Herald, it’s catching up to Lawndale. I even had the opportunity to do a couple book signings and appearances for the book. The Wildwood Historical Society carries copies of Down the Shore and sales of the book in their gift shop have been robust. I’ve also recently spoken with the folks at Hooked on Books in Wildwood. They’ve agreed to carry the book in their store this summer too!
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Regarding numbers on the blog, we’ve had another good year. We hit over 450,000 page views worldwide since the blog’s inception.
Here are some of the 2023 year-to-date data:
Page Views: 50,000
Visitors: 40,000
Subscribers: 5,000 (blog subscribers and followers on social media)
I’m pleased with how much the blog has grown organically since I started it with just one post back in the Fall of 2016. (Thank you, Ray Cross and Marisol Gonzalez) I appreciate everyone who reads, likes, comments, and subscribes to Phicklephilly.
Phicklephilly began as a place for me to tell my stories about dates I went on, past and present girlfriends, people I spent time with, and our adventures. I later added popular dating and relationship advice, which brought me tons of traffic. I had grown tired of it back in 2020 and wanted to stop doing the dating and relationship advice because it just became too hard to generate and maintain. But I kept it going because people liked it and it brought me traffic. But back in 2016, I prophecized that there would come a day when Phicklephilly would become nothing more than stories from my life and nothing more. I’m at a point with this blog where I’m writing for myself.
After doing it for 7 years and cranking out 8 published books, I’m hungry to create something of real value. But I don’t want it to be published every day. It’s too much work and not my ultimate vision for this blog. I make a nice living now at my little job, from ad revenue, and royalties from my books.
I went from working in sales in my professional life for 30 years, to a guy who lives a quiet life. I love to create. Nothing brings me more joy than making something and publishing it.
I only publish once a week. I put out something new and different every Tuesday. There will be no notice and each piece will stand on its own. Think of the quote from Forrest Gump: “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re going to get.” That’s what Phicklephilly has become. Every Tuesday you get a new story but it will only be about things I want to write about.
But… starting this year I’ve decided to once again publish a new blog post twice a week! So every Tuesday and Thursday you’ll get fresh content from me. I’ve been in a creative renaissance for the last 6 months and feel that I can generate more fun content every week now that I’m finished with Lawndale and Down the Shore.
I like the idea of the absolute freedom to create the stories I want to tell. But fear not… these are all interesting little stories about cool topics. I’m finally making the blog I want to make with no interest in page views, likes, revenue, or stats. Will I cash all the checks I receive from WordPress for the ads I allow them to run on my site? Of course, I will. I provided all of this content and this ad revenue helps support the site. But it will no longer drive why I generate content. I’d rather write something heartfelt and meaningful than just crank out dating and relationship advice.
I’m getting older now. (I’ll be 62 in August!) I don’t work in corporate America anymore. I’m so glad I left the rat race behind. I don’t go to happy hour anymore. I eat better and rarely drink alcohol. Going out to bars and burning money with a bunch of drunks seems like a waste of time. I haven’t been on a dating app in over six years. I just don’t care. They just seem like a bunch of lonely people looking to replicate the love of their lives that’s long gone and can never be reproduced.
I’m glad I lived all of these adventures and don’t get me wrong, I’ve had a great time in this city. But it’s over. I’m done. There’s absolutely nothing I can learn from hanging out in bars. Let the young people find their way with each other. I don’t belong out there anymore. To me, it’s just boring.
But, It’s been a great year. I’ll write about all of the ideas in my head for 2024. They’re stories best told in the coming year. I assure you, they will be interesting.
However, Tales of Rock will live on in 2024. It will happen when I think of something interesting and then write a piece about it and drop it. That’s it. I also think I may be at the point where I may publish a Tales of Rock book in the future! (Let me know if you think that’s something I should do.)
I’ve also written an outline and first draft for a guide about Anxiety and Depression. It’ll contain useful information and personal stories from my life. So far, I’ve got about 40,000 words written so hopefully, I will be able to publish that in the future.
I’m looking forward to how the blog will evolve and change as time goes by. I continue to evolve so why not my work? You should always be evolving throughout your life. I’m happy that I’m always growing and changing, even at this point in my life. There’s always new cool stuff to do and experience, and I want to share those stories with you.
I’m grateful for the love and support of my family and to everyone who has taken the time to read Phicklephilly and bought my books over the years. The best is yet to come!
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Stay tuned!
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Thank you for reading my blog. Please read, like, comment, and most of all follow Phicklephilly.
Phicklephilly 