Simon and I took a walk on the road today. A van full of Pennsylvania tourists came up the hill and pulled over, and the driver leaned out of the window – this is a true story – and without even blinking at Simon, said, “we’re looking for a farm, a writer guy named Katz lives there. You know where it is?” The women in the back seat started shouting, “that’s Simon! That’s Simon! ” and were clicking away with their point-and-shoots. They got out and petted him – he is a rock star, I think – and then drove off.  One wanted a snip of his mane hair. I declined. Nobody asked for anything of mine. As they were leaving, one of them said, “oh, I love your books!” But I think I have been upstaged.

__ For signed and personalized copies of “Going Home: Finding Peace When Pets Die,” or for pre-signed, personalized copies of the “Going Home” video for $5 plus tax and shipping anywhere in the world, call Connie Brooks at the Battenkill Bookstore. It will be exciting signing between three and five hundred copies of my book in a couple of days. She will have to feed me. And provide ice for my hands. Thanks for supporting the store and making a loud noise for individuality and the power of the community bookstore. To pre-order the book or the video – all signed any way you wish – call 518 677-2515. Or e-mail [email protected]

Sunday, I am videotaping Connie’s mother, Marilyn, who will read a small segment from “Going Home.” I will put that video up Monday. Marilyn is also a rock star. She will undoubtedly also upstate me.

Doing lots of interviews on the book tour. The “Support Vermont” part of the tour is taking shape. Will firm it up next week, from Burlington to Brattleboro and to some hurting places in between. September 27 is drawing near. From the first reviews, it seems the book will be helpful to people. I hope to hit the New York Times list for second time this year. Normally I don’t care much about that, but this year I do. I’m going to do it next year too.