Monday, October 15th, 2007, 3:30 p.m.

Greetings again from Murfreesboro, Tennessee!

Yesterday was our only day off, and we spent it hiking around an old civil war battleground. Here's what the place looks like from the air:

We spent a couple of hours in the battlefield. Often, I stopped and closed my eyes and tried to imagine what it would have been like: the cannons firing, the muskets blasting, the sound of metal and metal, men yelling. It was a fascinating (if ominous) experience.

Near the battlefield is a park, and we spent the rest of the afternoon having a picnic lunch and reading. The weather in Murfreesboro is great; it was in the mid 80s most of the day yesterday . . .

This morning, we were up early, ready to head to Smyrna (about 10 minutes from Murfreesboro) for our first school visit. However, Lily Munster didn't want to go! I think all the driving has finally caught up with her, and she wanted to stay at the hotel . . .

. . . even when we reached Smyra Primary School, all Lily Munster wanted to do was sleep . . .

So, while Lily Munster slept, we had a great time with everyone at Smyrna Primary!

I gave the kids at Smyrna a 'sneak peak' at the cover of American Chillers #21: Terrifying Toys of Tennessee . . .

Me and Mrs. Cornelison . . .

We had a great time at Smyrna Primary. We were even presented a really great gift basket (including treats for Lily Munster!) but the picture came out so blurry that I'm not going to bother posting it. (And Lily has already wolfed down her treats!

We had a few minutes before our next school visit, so we stopped near a field and had a portable picnic, courtesy of Mrs. Chillers. Turkey and cheese wraps, with pickles and lettuce. Yum!

Then, it was on to David Youree Elementary! Another super-fun school visit!

A basket of goodies, all made in Tennessee!

Here I am with Mrs. Cantrell, Mrs. Chillers, and Lily Munster . . .

No, Lily Munster . . . these Little Debbie's aren't for you!

We had a really great day today (but we knew we would!) Thanks to everyone for their great hospitality. It really feels great to be back in Murfreesboro. Don't forget about the big World Premiere of American Chillers #21: Terrifying Toys of Tennessee, this Friday at Hobgood Elementary (Murfreesboro) at 5pm. Hope you can make it, if you're in the area!

Again, for those of you wondering what #22 will be: the book is finished, and it's called Nuclear Jellyfish of New Jersey. The book will be released in November. More details soon!

Thanks for checking in!

Best wishes, happy reading, and . . . WRITE ON!