Connor of the Dodging Bullets invited me to their acoustic set they did at Barnes and Noble last night. He then extended an invitation to come and hear their version of Stairway to Heaven they learned for the upcoming play.

Man, are these guys talented! They’ll not only perform the slow version of the song before both scenes, they will play the rockin’ version of the song, which will bring back memories for many who attend the show.

I’m still seeking 3 wireless microphones before the play, and we unfortunately lost a member of our cast Thursday night! And so, since the show must go on, guess who is going to step up to the plate to perform?

Hey, tonight’s play practice at the Joyo was excellent! Denny and Cheri are natural actors, and they’ve nailed their parts as Detective Shepherd and Probation Officer, Linda Thurston. Man, it’s really cool to see characters from my book take on a life of their own through these two experienced actors.

Nate, who recently joined our crew, is really impressive, as well. He’s playing Reason’s older brother, Boone. He even looks like the real Boone! We could all tell right away that Nate had acted before, for he stepped right into the role and performed so well I forgot to throw him lines when he needed them.

Alex, who plays Reason, never fails to fascinate me with how animated he gets. I think I get a little lost in directing when I watch how fired up he becomes. And he never is shy about throwing out a suggestion that will make the scene work better.

And Brandon? Holy Moses! This kid has never acted before, and yet tonight he surprised us all when he sort of slipped out of himself and became Vince! It was cool for all of us to see him evolve and put on a show for us!

If the two nights of the show go anything like tonight, we’ll do a smashing good job!

Sunday I went for a short walk up at Mahoney Park on the east edge of Havelock. When I returned to my Pathfinder, I discovered that someone had stolen my billfold (stuck beneath the seat) and about $150 worth of my books. I sure hope the thieves can read!

On Thursday, I found an envelope addressed to me with no return address in the mail box. Someone had the decency to send me back my registration, my UNL library card, and my Blockbuster movie card. But alas, they didn’t send my license (which will cost me $13 to replace).

Now, if only they would return my books! Hey, I could reward them with an autographed copy of at least a couple of my books!