My Neighbor Was a Serial Killer

Yes, there's a serial killer in this story, along with a Hollywood producer, an adventure in Europe, and my introduction to a life of crime by the daughter of a prominent actor. It's a true story too. I present it to you as journal entries, almost exactly as I wrote them more than 40 years ago. I have added a little clarification as to who's who and cleaned up a few spelling and punctuation errors. Also, I've changed some names out of respect for the privacy. Otherwise, this is a truthful account of the adventures and misadventures I experienced after my divorce in 1976. Although I was 28 at the time this occurred, I was always years behind my peers in terms of landmark life events. I didn't even date in high school. I didn't get my driver's license until I was 18. And when I got married at age 24. I'd always been a "good boy" too. I didn't drink in high school or take drugs. I made good grades and never got into trouble. In other words, I was an exemplary Baby Boomer- go to college, serve your country, find a job, get married, have kids... Only my wife and I never got to that last part. During the first two years of marriage, we moved around, searching for a place where we both could find good jobs. But when, we finally found that place- Tallahassee, Fla., achieved the American Dream and settled into a routine, the relationship began to deteriorate. At least I think that's what happened. I still was the good boy and mostly oblivious. I almost certainly would have stayed married if Lois had not taken the first step. But, she told me that she was bored and depressed. By implication, even someone as oblivious as I was could see that she believed I was the reason for her unhappiness. She said she wanted a divorce. In other words, I was free! Not long after, I decided that I'd go to Europe. I'd always thought about visiting there someday, especially Paris. For reasons I couldn't explain-and still can't-I'd always been drawn to that city. So, my plan was to buy a Eurail pass and a French-English translation guide, strap on a backpack, and have an adventure!