ABOUT THE BOOK

Ron Erickson came into my life when I was just a teenager. He swept my mom off her feet so fast; she

didn’t know what hit her. Before we all knew it, they married, and he was my “Pops.” My life changed for the better!

 

Pops was good to me and always there for me when I needed him. I cannot recall him missing any of my high school or college basketball games. He loved to coach me from the stands, and it was crazy how I could always hear his voice over the crowd. I remember often looking up in the stands for his encouragement and approval. He later told me these were some of his fondest memories.

 

 I had two of the coolest parents you could imagine. Back in the day, I would meet them to watch football and play darts. Many times, I joined them in Luckenbach for “Sunday Funday!” Pops loved to find a dive bar with live music. My husband and I have some amazing memories of hanging out with Mom and Pops. We enjoyed attending various cook-offs, music festivals, and other events. My sister would sometimes join us, and we had so much fun. 

These were great times!

 

By the time I was in my late twenties, Mom and Pops started traveling to Mexico. They eventually decided to go all in and live there year round. They loved every minute of exploring different areas and soaking up the culture. It was in Mexico where Pops wrote Gringo’s Lament. Over the years, he would mention the book from time to time and joke with my mom about the characters, but he did not share the book with anyone else. I really wish I would have pushed years ago to read it, but you can’t change the past - plus, he wasn’t ready.

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My parents had to abandon their tranquil lifestyle in Mexico and return to the States when my mom’s health started failing. She was diagnosed with stage four cancer, and we were told she had six months to live. Pops stepped up and cared for her in a way that’s indescribable. My mother lived four years beyond  her prognosis due to the love, support, and care Pops provided. He was absolutely amazing and loved my mom like crazy!

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After Mom passed, Pops did well for a few years but could not shake losing the love of his life. Over time, his health started deteriorating, and he passed away from heart complications. I truly believe he died from a broken heart. As Pops’ health was declining, he mentioned his book a few times and even stated he wanted me to read it. He had revisited his work and said, “You know, it’s not bad. It’s actually pretty good.” We laughed and joked about getting it published and I teased him about being on talk shows promoting his book. When he passed away, I immediately read the book. Pops was right – it’s GOOD! I knew what I had to do.

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Pops was a brilliant man. He could complete the Sunday New York Times crossword puzzle and crush anyone at Jeopardy. I am not surprised he had the creativity and skills to write a beautiful work of fiction. I am so proud of Pops for this accomplishment, and as a tribute to him, I want to share his work with all of you. This journey has been enlightening and therapeutic for me. I am confident he is looking down and smiling.

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Pops was not perfect – no one is. He made his fair share of mistakes through the years and wanted to make amends with those he loved – you know who you are. You were in his heart.

 

Pops is gone but not forgotten. I am so gratefuL and lucky he was part of my life!

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- CMB