JUDAS PRIEST frontman Rob Halford has posted the following October Blog in The Metal God's Forum:

Let's start with simple goings on. I have returned from the U.K. to the U.S. for a bit of a break from the Priest 'Nostradamus' sessions. Actually, I am fine-tuning lyrics; and speaking with journalists around the world on the new FIGHT and HALFORD releases. I flew into Phoenix recently and spent a couple days there getting over the long flight from London, and the evil jet lag I suffer from. Phoenix is perfect this time of year with the heat having eased off. At night the city sparkles and inspires. The Arizona State Fair is going on right now. It's been years since I enjoyed the event, so this past week I returned, and it was packed with all kinds of people from every walk of life — having a good time, as I did. Saw the games barkers, ate some great food (bbq and Indian bread) and enjoyed many rides. While eating, on my left was a Navajo hoop ceremony, and on my right was a raucous pie-eating contest. Paid a buck to see the world's strangest 'thing,' and enjoyed speaking with the caretakers of the largest boa constrictor.

Next day I decided to head over to San Diego. I love the six-hour drive across the desert. I have made that drive more times than I can recall, and it is a journey I look forward to. As the city of Phoenix falls away in the rear-view mirror, and the vast desert opens up along roads that go on forever; it seems a million miles from my small hometown. Mountains, cactus, big-blue skies provide wonder and comfort. I make two stops along the way. Gila Bend is a place that for now is in something of a time warp; not the typical western town you might expect. My second stop is in the middle of nowhere: Dateland, Ca. Yep, one stop sign, a gas station to quench the car, and the most incredible date-shakes you will ever experience. From there it's over and up the hills to four thousand feet which separate the desert heat from the cooler climates of California. Foot down I zoom by The Golden Acorn Casino — this time, arriving into beautiful San Diego. Ocean breezes and perfect beaches. I've got just enough time to get in the Halloween mood; which will lead to darker blogging next time!"