Since Aftershock was released, I've been to eight states, signed a bunch of books, did a dozen or so radio shows, and I've lived out of a suitcase for six weeks. I've been sick once (cold or allergies, depending on who you talk to) I've had my poor knee injected, (ouch, by the way) as well as my shoulder injected (not as big an ouch, but still) both were designed to alleviate pain in an effort to keep my body moving. So, all in all, it's safe to say that my skeleton is not all that happy with me at the moment--nor I with it. This morning I received an ultimatum via my aching back. The message was clear. If I quit traveling soon, my body will let me live. So, I'm headed for my refuge in the Pacific Northwest.
On the plus side, I had the best time ever! I met so many new friends which is always fantastic. But even better, I connected with treasured friends, people I hadn't seen or heard from in decades. Sharing long-forgotten memories with an old friend is truly one of the best feelings ever.
My body will calm down, the pain and misery I subjected myself to will eventually subside, and what will remain are the memories. Aftershock book release was the best yet, and I thank each and every one of you I met in bookstores, elevators, airports, bars, and restaurants--you're all part of the smile on my face. Thanks so much.
And to the very special people who met me 35+ years ago, and thought enough of those times to come and say hello in 2015--thank you. You're the best, I love you all, and I'd make this trip all over again if we could hang out some more. Maybe next year?
Until then, here's a photo from the good-old days: The author, circa 1978. 22 year old copilot on a Cessna Citation
