I’m Larry Pattison Jr.—a writer shaped by the steel town that raised me, the communities I’ve served, the moments that forged me, and the stories I’ve carried far longer than I ever planned. My work lives at the intersection of memory, place, and the small turning points that change us. Whether I’m writing about the families I’ve advocated for, the kids I’ve coached, the ghosts of long-gone stadiums, or the quiet moments that linger, I’m always chasing the same thing: a story with heart.

I write under both Larry Pattison Jr. and Lawrence Thomas—a throwback to a university project where a pseudonym felt safer for a piece that made me blush. These days, I use whichever name fits the work. Dual names, dual lanes of life—both still feel like me.

Over the years I’ve worn a lot of hats: writer, parent, coach, community volunteer, politician, occasional musician, and lifelong Hamiltonian. Through all of it, the constant has been my love for stories. I’ve been filling notebooks, blogs, margins, and half-finished drafts since I was a kid, and I still get that same spark when a new idea clicks.

When I’m not writing, I’m a youth coach, a handyman by necessity, a devoted dad and husband, a servant to too many pets, and someone who believes fiercely in the power of community—building it, protecting it, celebrating it. I believe in showing up, and I believe that an honest story can change someone’s day—or sometimes their whole direction.

This space is more a journal than a blog: a place to explore my thoughts, curiosities, and questions about everything from youth sport to socio-political issues. My work ranges from personal essays to local advocacy to long-form storytelling.

I live in Hamilton, Ontario with my family, piles of notebooks waiting to be revisited, and the persistent urge to turn real life into something worth reading.

You can reach me anytime using the form below.