From the hours of midnight to 5 a.m., the city quiets down.  It’s so peaceful that, on the odd occasion, I can hear the trains from the other side of town.  When I’m outside, all I hear is our waterfall, fountains, crickets, and frogs.  The occasional siren or passing car intrudes but not too often.

     Inside the dogs are snoring quietly and the phone is silent.  Ideally, the TV is off.  I write.  The dinner dishes sit in the sink all rinsed and ready for washing.  They will keep for a while. 

     With coffee close to hand and some inspiration, my nightly post grows.  I read the comments on my blog and answer them.  I reply to E-mails and my books take on new life.  I play with words, phases, expressions, dialogue, and characters.  I hope to take my readers on a journey into a good mystery with twists, turns, and a resolution at the end.

     Around about 4 a.m., I take the dogs out, do my dishes, and go to bed.