Trip to Camelot

January 12, 2007

Was it mentioned that as soon as the previous edit of The Marker was completed, another was started? At the first read, the novel appeared to be in need of minimal editing; the more it's reviewed the larger the job grows. Another forty, or so, pages were edited this afternoon in a Mexican restaurant; and there are miles to go before this sucker sleeps, miles to go.

Went with old friend, Tom Callahan, back to Camelot this morning to join a group of previous movers and shakers in the little town. Eighteen, or nineteen, people were in Elfer's/Lyon's Rexall for coffee, conversation, and dice tossing. Folks from many years ago were collected in this most reminiscent of places and it was like going home to mama. After coffee, Tom and I drove over to the old school and walked through the hallways during lunch. With almost double the number of students nowdays, the school seemed small, full, and tight. They're thinking about building a new one; it will be sad to see the old one closed, but it's worn out.

We drove up to visit Uncle Melvin before leaving town. Uncle Melvin lost his wife, Joyce, seven months ago and he's struggling with a ton of grief. Everyone in Camelot is worried about him, but after our visit I think he will emerge successfully.

Here's a drawing I did yesterday. I like it!