Today at lunch I went to Wendy's and got a number five. I like Wendy's, because you're not strongarmed into accepting fries as a side dish. I like a little freedom, and when availble, I will always consider alternatives. It's kind of how I write a joke. I almost always throw out the first punchline that comes to mind - because that's the one everyone else is thinking of first. Wendy's chili is bitchin'. Having received a bad rap from that greedy bitch who planted a dismembered digit in her serving a few years back, I thought it just to support this chain and order up the very item that had been the recipient of such negative press.

On the cup, it states that their chili spends at least four hours simmering. The reason for that is to ensure quality. I may not be a chili expert, but they are on to something. It is tasty.

It seems crazy to me when I think about how much time I've spent thinking about this episode versus actual time putting pen to paper. I've given myself time to reflect on the avenues the story could take. Ed has submitted a fine manuscript, but even he was finding it difficult to proceed. We got a great start with the first chapter, but I was feeling scared and a little unworthy to keep going. It was like I wasn't ready. Something wasn't right yet.

The extra simmering has payed off. In a moment of clarity, all of the stories' threads wove themselves together. The vital twist this toon was missing came to me as if in a dream. I am truly excited to be working on this cartoon again. So when you think of really great chili, and are a fan of iffy metaphor, please keep this toon in mind while ordering a number 5 from Wendy's.

In chapter two, there are some subtle clues as to what is on the horizon, but please bear in mind this cartoon will be released in four (4) chapters. Chapter two's main duty is to establish tone and mood, and to plant some seeds. Which I think it will do very well.

If all goes well, an additional SAMV project unrelated to this one will be released a week or so prior.

Keep watching this space.