Before I met Todd, I had read most and greatly enjoyed of Harry's books, short stories and adored his book reviews in Analog in the 70s. I could be considered a fan, but not as FAN as I had never been to a Science Fiction Convention.

I was quite terrified of meeting Todd's parents, even though I had been assured that they would not bite. Todd said that his Dad was only given to growling in restaurants with very poor service. The circumstances of meeting them were not good. Todd had been diagnosed with cancer and they were here to lend help and support through the surgery. (Todd is fine, and 8 years later has been pronounced cured) Their love and support greatly reduced the stress of he surgery and radiation therapy after the surgery.

Todd and I married 4 months later. Harry was working on a deadline and could not attend the wedding, but Joan was there. Harry sent a huge floral boquet that took up a good quarter of the only room in which it could be placed.

It took me a good three years to get over my fear or shyness to actually be able to converse with Harry. I discovered that beneath the bluster, there is a very kind and gentle man. I think that Joan and I hit it off well from the first moment we met.

An unexpected bonus for falling in love and marrying Todd was to become a part of such an erudite and charming family. I also adore the bragging rights when friends and aquaintances bemoan their horrid inlaws to be able to say 'I have the best inlaws in the world!" with no reservations what so ever.

Happy Birthday, Harry!