We're All Aging at the Same Rate

I am a stickler for rules, particularly those governing language, syntax and the written word.  For many years, I pored over new editions of the AP Style Book and Chicago Manual of Style.

But sometime between my early 20s and this week, rules changed without my notice:  now only one space is required between sentences. . .and none between ellipses' periods.  This is disturbing news.

What's more, that I'm doing it wrong makes me feel old.  Kids these days (yes, I said it!) use only one space.  Even 20-somethings use just the one.  Yes, I learned to type on a typewriter.  (Thank you, Miss Marto.)

I find this habit nearly impossible to break.

I am notoriously stubborn about language.  I note a distinct difference between nauseated and nauseous.  I know no one can give more than 100 percent effort at his job.  I refuse to use transition as a verb.  I refuse to use impact as a verb, except in cases of one object physically crashing into another, and I will never suggest that someone insert himself into a situation. 

But this, I can do.

When my current manuscript is complete, I will do a huge search-and-replace for double spaces.  Then they will disappear from my computer forever.  That means I have about six months to get it right on the blog, too. 

Wish me luck.