The top eight things from the last year. 7 good, 1 sad. I might come up with two more in a forehead slapper post “post”. But eight works for now.

Cool hotels. Stayed at three cool hotels – the Magnolia in Dallas, the Blackstone in Fort Worth, and the Pontchartrain Hotel in New Orleans. All with their distinctive charms and would recommend. Honorable mention: the very friendly Holiday Inn Express in Opelousas, Louisiana.

Going to see live music. Operas, SXSW day shows, jazz funk, the Wacos at the Whirly, the Old 97s, Storyville Mosquito. I just have to remember to stretch before extended standing periods and wear ear plugs when appropriate.

Talking to music legends. Dinner and arcade time with Kid Koala and DJ Jester (the Filipino Fist), and a few casual words with Sally Timms were highlights.

Arooj Aftab’s Night Reign on purple vinyl.

Finally saying good bye to cigarettes after 42 years.

The state of Louisiana. Made two trips there and still may go again. Like New Mexico to the West, it can be as alien and intriguing as a whole other country.

Comic books. I read a ton of comics thanks to working next to one of the two best comic shops in town, and living close to the other, compounded by a subscription to the DC Universe Ultra app. Standouts new and old include Helen of Wyndhorn, Wonder Woman, Planetary, The One Hand and the Six Fingers, the DC Absolute titles and tons more.

Saying goodbye to Chip. He was a good dog we thought was eternal.