October 15, 2002
Well, another lengthy absence has elapsed since I last touched this site. These weekly disappearances are becoming a disturbing trend. My apologizes and my thanks for everybody who's been hanging around despite my neglect!

This past weekend I attended the Humpback Barn Festival, a celebration of local poets and artists. I was there to read a poem I had written and the reading went off without a hitch. A minor setback did occur after I finished the poem when I nearly fell off the stage. As I was leaving the podium, I stumbled on the cinderblock that served as the stage's step. It was an awkward moment that was greeted with a collective gasp from the audience. After wobbling a bit, I righted myself and announced " I'm alright!" to the concerned onlookers. For a moment, I felt like a bright, shiny jackass.

However, the rest of the event was enjoyable. There was a slight chill in the air, but it didn't distract from some fine poems.

Eric is preparing to go to Amsterdam! He's leaving on Wednesday and he'll be staying a few weeks in Europe. Safe journey, Eric, and try not to start any international incidents!