For about the last 8-10 years, I have read 2-3 books a week. I have kept a log in an extremely simple database since early 1999, and my pace has been remarkable steady, if I look at averages, based on that log. Sometimes, for example on a vacation involving long flights, or long periods of relative inactivity, I read about a book a day. At other times, less, of course.

But since early this year, I haven't come close to keeping up with 2-3 books a week. And various review submissions for CrimeSpree magazine just sit in corners and prick my conscience when I stop to notice the stacks of books.

Since about the middle of May, I've noticed a dramatic change. I'm back to 2-3 books a week, and perhaps even a little ahead of that pace. And I can't quite identify why. A couple of truly excellent recent novels becoming available on my library holds list certainly helped. And some strange lack of ability to sit quietly and concentrate has mysteriously abated. It's good news, of course. This feels more "normal" than the earlier reading funk, or whatever it was.

And of course, each morning's sports page has brought uncomfortable parallels between my reading accomplishments and the won-loss record of the 2007 National League Champions. {I hope none of you need to stop and think which team that was!}

Yesterday, Jeff Francis, one of last year's pitching stars finally won his second game as the team shut out the Dodgers. Today Aaron Cook picked up a win. That's two games in a row, and it seems surreal, after the beginning of our season.

The game day staff has had 11 days off - we'll be back to work on Friday of this week for a six game homestand.

I think I'm too cautious to think about a streak at this point. But I hope I will be forgiven if I tentatively begin to imagine the slump nearly over. Just like my reading slump seems to have faded away.