When the second book in my Pacific Northwest Cozy Mystery series pubbed on Oct. 2, I was ready to share the news with anyone who would listen. I cranked out the social media to announce the news, attended the Ashland Mystery Festival and handed out postcards, met potential fans and book influencers, signed books as attendees scooped up the stock in local bookstores. The excitement of Halloween and spooky-fun business to come was in the air.

Then life, right? I got an early morning call from a daughter-in-law to tell me that my son had just experienced two seizures and been taken to the emergency room on the other side of the country from where we live. Soon, I learned that he’d arrived at the hospital unresponsive, been sedated and intubated. No one knew what was happening. We know now. Two weeks later we know that he had a brain tumor. I flew across the country to provide help and support as he went through brain surgery and came home to recover. It was a very successful surgery, but… it’s brain surgery. Death in the Haunted Wood is cozy scary. Brain surgery on your child: that is truly scary.

These creative things we do… writing, painting, making music… they make our lives rich, enrich the lives of others, bring us joy. But it all tumbles off a cliff when a loved one needs us. So, if you’re here, thanks for reading. May this Halloween be cozy, spooky and a treat for you and all those you love—especially the kiddos!