I've been having a hard time finding a few minutes to update the ol' journal lately, and keeping up with other friends' journals has been just as tricky. The day job's kicking my butt, but we're starting to make some good progress there. The plan is to take a day off when our new release comes out to work on my novel -- a whole Writer's Day. We'll see how it plays out...

Drew had a great time trick-or-treating last night. We hit about 20 houses, and he still hadn't quite got the hang of people giving him candy just for knocking on their door. He did enjoy walking around in the dark and pointing out the moon to anyone who was listening...

Meanwhile, a nice review of the Jigsaw Nation anthology, with the following words for my story "This Divided Land" :

"This Divided Land" by Michael Jasper tells the dangerous journey two lovers will take to be with one another. Zack and Alan have only ever corresponded over computer screens, but they've finally decided to face their fears, face the harsh government controlling the roads and borders, face their parents' disappointment, and go in search of true love. From the start, both know it's not going to be an easy task. Jasper handles both Zack's and Alan's viewpoint well, telling each boy's story and giving just enough reason for sympathy votes. Of all the stories in Jigsaw Nation, this was the one that felt the realest, and maybe that's why it had such a strong impact on this reader. Well recommended.

Very cool. That story was an experiment for me in how to tell two stories at the same time, and I think it turned out quite well. Glad the reviewer like it. And now I've got to read the other stories in there!

Now... who decided it could be November already? And why is it dark every night when I leave the office, with only the moon to guide me home? That's not cool, man!