"My purpose in writing this book is to challenge myself and other Pickleball players to share the parallels that exist in our lives between how we play games and how we do life."--

If you have ever wondered where the people that your mother warned you about actually come from? Then, you are in luck. Within the pages of Mark Ortizs first publication is where you will find them. Within this book lies the brutal, and sometimes barbaric, reality of a youth gone wild. Marks Ortizs tales of woe are both vulgarly honest and painfully endearing. His rag tag group of friends will leave you in stitches as he takes you from drunken bachelor parties to childish feats of bravado. The unfathomable situations that Mark Ortiz and his friends get into are undoubtedly the most absurd things that one has ever read. Hilarity is rampart with each turning of the page. If you are a fan of programs such as Jackass and publications such as I Hope They Serve Beer In Hell, then welcome to the Mark Ortiz experience. Warning: This publication is not for the faint of heart. Mark Ortiz does not condone or advise any readers to attempt or recreate any acts within these pages.

Ready to Get the MOST Out of Life -and Your Pickleball Game? Whether you've never heard of this fun, fast-growing game, or are a confirmed pickleball addict, this guide to living and playing mindfully with passion, purpose, and a smile on your face is as uplifting as it is empowering. In Pickleball and the Art of Living, entrepreneur, coach and philanthropist Mike Branon shares the essence of how to: DEVELOP powerful habits and master techniques that improve performance in any endeavor. OVERCOME obstacles that stand in the way of living and playing your best. CULTIVATE the mindset that unlocks your enjoyment of everyday life and fills you with a sense of gratitude and accomplishment. CONNECT deeply with the people who really matter. BALANCE fierce competition with the ability to lighten up and have a few laughs along the way. UNLEASH your inner pickleball savant. Imagine taking your game to the next level. Imagine a life of greater presence, connection and joy. Turn imagination into action. Your time is now!

The author is a first-time book-writing person (he cant remember what a book writer is called). He has gathered a collection of short stories based on his true life and day-to-day experiences combined with only 99 percent made-up stuff. These short stories have been created to bring laughter into your day and to give the reader a sense of just how much space is on the back of a toilet to store a book.