Checking in...

Hey! Ah, man. I averaged three posts a week for that one week and then ruined it all by averaging zero per week last week. And I used the word "week" four times in that last sentence. Bad writing.

Not a whole lot going on, but here's what's on my mind:

1. My birthday is on Thanksgiving this year. Which is good in the sense that I can eat lots of food and sit around watching football all day, but bad in the sense that I get a two-for-one special day situation. I know, not as bad as Christmas, but still. My wife made it up to me by celebrating early and getting me one of the coolest surprise birthday presents of all time:


2. I'm slightly addicted to the drums. And really getting pretty good if I do say so myself.

3. I had a great time in Michigan last week. Thanks to everyone involved: the schools, the students, the teachers. Thanks to both Barnes and Noble and Borders for hosting events and to all those who came. And I really enjoyed my luncheon at the Borders headquarters. Awesome people and it looks like they're going to promote The Maze Runner a lot this Christmas. Sweet!

4. But most of all I have to thank Mr. XXXX XXXXXXXX. (He insists on staying anonymous.) I didn't know people like this still existed in the world. He is genuine, funny, and completely and absolutely selfless. He personally funded this entire trip so that many students could have the experience of meeting an author (we did 5 schools). And he is by no means rich. I was truly blown away.

5. Mr. XXXXXXXXX also kept me laughing the entire time with constant one liners and countless "sayings", like "kill one cockroach and a thousand come to the funeral" and "women are like streetcars, a new one comes along every 15 minutes." (Don't get mad over that last one - his dad told him that when he got dumped one time to make him feel better. Haha.)

6. Thank you XXXX. I couldn't possibly say it enough times. You are a good man.

7. I've really sucked it up on Twitter lately. I promise to do better!

8. Especially considering my new phone makes it easier. So, I've always coveted the iPhone. But I held off because I LOVE Verizon so much. You can't beat their coverage and their incredible customer service. So when they came out with this new Droid, I couldn't resist. I don't know if it's as good as the iPhone, but it's awfully close. I love, love, love it!

9. I know all you iPhone users will look down on me. I don't care. I win.

10. By the way, I'll be 37. That is freaking old.

11. Maze was chosen for the Texas Lone Star Reading List. It's quite an honor and we are thrilled! Thank you Lori Loranger and everyone else on the committee!!!!!

Q&A from the comments:

LT Elliot asked which kind of cheese I prefer: Well, honestly, I'm a blue collar cheese lover. Cheddar and Pepper Jack!

Erin G: Yes, I knew you were kidding! Haha.

Diva Donna: Yes, I know I owe you guys dinner. Soon!!!!

Shannon O'Donnell: Yes! I would love to come to Montana. I'll email you....

FirstRainbowRose: Nothing in Provo anytime soon. Sorry! Stay tuned for all events....

Matt Hayes asked if I like 13th Reality or Maze better. Hmmmmm. Too close to call!

Dave asked who is publishing 13th Book 3. Shadow Mountain will do the hardback in April, Simon & Schuster the paperback.

ErinG asked if I would still write books if no one paid me for it. Easiest question I've ever gotten: YES!

DkuzNY asked if Maze is going to be made into a movie. I certainly hope so, and though nothing has happened yet, there's definite interest and I really think it will happen.

Jack Porter, great usage of the Maze slang words!

And Aaron, no, I did not die. Thanks for your concern!