In a comment on my Nov. 7 post, Joan from Alaska writes a note to all Shades of Gray readers:

"I wish that we were all neighbors, and could get together and cook a big supper, with the little kids watching the big ones, laughter and music, aromas of garlic and tomatoes and a fresh-made Caesar salad, bumping into each other in the kitchen, uncorking a good red wine, and lingering late into the evening because the conversation is too good to leave. My life has grown far too hectic, I think; the thought of such a lovely evening and how long it's been since I've had one is my own little lesson in priorities, and I believe that mine have been misplaced.

"It's snowing here on this quiet Sunday, the first real snowfall we've had all winter. I live far out in the country, where moose wander through my yard and stare disinterested at me while they munch my trees. I wish you were all here watching this snowy woods fill with me."

Oh, we are, Joan. Thank you.

P.S. Off to Dallas to speak Tuesday at the IABC/Dallas Quill Awards luncheon. I'm told that former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach is speaking simultaneously, across town. Boy is Roger Dodger going to be surprised when no one shows up. "Who the hell is David Murray?!"