A philosophy of presence, clarity, and living without a script.
Frozen Frames–07/13/1964
Welcome to 'Frozen Frames,' where each photo is a step back in time. Join me in rediscovering my history, one photograph at a time.
Me with Mama Parker, my maternal grandmother, a most wonderful woman, one kind and compassionate, who loved me unconditionally. She and my grandfather, Daddy John, lived next door all during my growing up years.
It seems I’ve always liked cooking over fire. Here, I still remember the sausage patties. And, the huge garden spot beyond.
As best I can tell, I’m around 10, summer of 1964, between end of 5th grade and beginning of 6th.
Writer, observer, and student of presence. After decades as a CPA, attorney, and believer in inherited purpose, I now live a quieter life built around clarity, simplicity, and the freedom to begin again.
I write both nonfiction and fiction:
The Pencil-Driven Life, a memoir and daily practice of awareness, and the Boaz, Alabama novels—character-driven stories rooted in the complexities of ordinary life.
I live on seventy acres we call Oak Hollow, where my wife and I care for seven rescued dogs and build small, intentional spaces that reflect the same philosophy I write about. Oak Hollow Cabins is in the development stage (opening March 1, 2026), and is—now and always—a lived expression of presence: cabins, trails, and quiet places shaped by the land itself.
My background as a Fictionary Certified StoryCoach Editor still informs how I understand story, though I no longer offer coaching. Instead, I share reflections through The Pencil’s Edge and @thepencildrivenlife, exploring what it means to live lightly, honestly, and without a script.
Whether I’m writing, building, or walking the land, my work is rooted in one simple truth:
Life becomes clearer when we stop trying to control the story and start paying attention to the moment we’re in.
View all posts by Richard L. Fricks
The Pencil Driven Life 