Goodbye, Marshmallow Man

It's not very often I take note of a celebrity's passing, but Ray Bradbury's death is an exception. As some of you know, he was my favorite author. Notice my tribute to him on the front page of this blog? My all-time favorite Bradbury book was DANDELION WINE, which gave me an appreciation for the days I spent as an untroubled youth as well as the times I spent with my grandparents.

A few years back I found his home address through an extensive internet search, and I sent him my copy of DANDELION WINE along with a stamped, self-addressed return envelope. I remember kissing it goodbye and wondering if I would ever see it again. A few weeks later, my beloved book was returned to me along with his signature (see picture above.) I was ecstatic.

After that, I began sending him birthday cards, Christmas cards, Halloween cards, and cards for no reason.  During that time, I started calling him "Marshmallow Man" because it was obvious to me that he had such a very soft heart. The last card I sent had a dandelion on it, and it was mailed not more than four weeks ago.

I'm so glad I sent it.