January 3, 2018

Wednesday, 3rd of January -- I would like to express my sorrow at the loss of Sue Grafton. I read and enjoyed her unique characters and her equally unique style and setting (back in the eighties on the coast of southern California before all the technology hit writers in the face). She broke new ground in mystery/thriller writing for women -- I'll never forget when she was invited to be the keynote speaker in London at the Bouchercon some years ago -- all the "old guard" -- male authors who wallowed in the alcoholic bar fly P.I., women as hookers and if they weren't, they always died -- were really upset how such a horrible thing could come about. Well, come about it did. I will miss her greatly. As I know you will as well. Many times what happens is that the family asks the publisher to find an author to write under the deceased author's name. I'm very pleased to say that Sue's daughter announced her mother's series will end with Y -- that is an excellent tribute.
I'm a week and a half into the "flu" -- haven't had this for at least a thousand years (well close) -- feeling a bit more human today and it's wonderful. I might even hop on my bike (no gym yet, don't want to kill the world) see how long I can ride without falling off.
I hope all of you are well and happy and coming down from a great holiday -- have you taken down your Christmas decorations yet? No, I haven't yet -- next week.
Please give me another couple minutes of your cardio today -- can't have me collapsing to the floor with no muscles left, a puddle, not at all appetizing. Don't you let down or the minions will tell me. He Haw, it's 2018!