The world has gone around the sun nine times since I joined FA. Where did the time go? As I sit down to write my annual recap, I tell myself to keep it brief.

Honestly, quite a bit happened this year, including a trip to Furnal Equinox back in March. I already covered this subject in depth in another journal. So if you are interested, go have a look at Reflections on Furnal Equinox. I’ll wait here for you… Doot-dee-doo-doo, dum-dum… *taps watch*

Oh, there you are! Welcome back. Another important event occurred before FE. At the end of January, I announced publication of two new books in my Long Division series, Interviews and Couples. I didn’t write a journal about those, but announced them when I posted the artwork for the covers. In case you missed those, you can find them in my gallery here Interviews Cover (art by S00T) and here Couples Cover (art by Oli_Snowpaw).

In a significant life event, I retired from my day job after 40 years as a software engineer in the aviation industry. Those of you who watch me know that I remain busy writing (when inspiration strikes) and taking photos (when car shows and other events appear on the calendar).

I always like to give one final shout-out to the artists who have blessed me with their fantastic art over the past year. First, these talented folks have contributed to my Bucky Art folder (in the order received):

 Oli_Snowpaw,  Jagal,  HBruton,  awkward_awd,  Kimmykun,  Cartoonwolf,  S00T

I went a little crazy this year buying art that featured characters from my Long Division story world. So, in my Stories & Related Art folder, you’ll find multiple pieces from each of these artists (again, in the order received):

 S00T,  Oli_Snowpaw,  Os,  Red-Dog,  Sinister-Jordex,  Timid-Wolf

Thanks to all of my artists, watchers, occasional visitors, and furry friends. I’m glad we got to spend some time together in 2023 and am looking forward to all that next year will bring.

—Ursus