Normally I only do these birthday posts for writers who are dead, but I’m making an exception today.  Joe Lansdale entered the world on October 28, 1951.

Since we’re both from Texas, our paths have crossed a number of times through the years.  Several years may go by when I don’t see Joe at a convention, then we’ll attend the same events more than once in a year.

One of the highlights of my encounters with Joe is when we are both at Armadillcon.  After the dealer’s room closes, you can usually find Joe in the lobby in the middle of a group talking about all kinds of things.  Joe isn’t the only one talking, of course, but he’s a major contributor to the conversation.  Me, I sit at the back of the group, keep my mouth shut (it does happen; don’t look so shocked), and listen.  I always learn something, whether it’s about a book I need to read, an anecdote about a writer, or some tidbit of pop culture history.  If you ever get a chance to hang out with him, take advantage of it.

Happy birthday, Joe, and thanks for all the great stories over the years, both verbal and written.