Another year is winding to a close. November, December, and then poof! 2021 is over.
I think it has been a strange year for all of us. Another year of masks, of vaccines, of arguments about masks, arguments about vaccines, schools opening and closing, supply chain woes, books delayed . . . so many things that we had never experienced two years ago.
I spent most of this year not writing much. I did a few short stories, and was very pleased to sell them to SF/fantasy magazines. The stories I wrote were Megan Lindholm tales, all urban fantasies.
And I focused on my long neglected land and attempts at gardening. This year, I've read more gardening books, and became a fan of Monty Don and his Gardener's World show on the BBC. I don't think I'll ever create a grand estate garden such as they often show, but I have begun to put my little bit of acreage in order. In line with my fear of global warming, exacerbated by the months of drought and record high temperatures we had here in Washington state, I've put my emphasis on native species in my garden. But the drought and the high temperatures also reminded me that there are no impervious walls around the bit of dirt that I steward. I have fourteen acres, but drought, blight and fire can still undo all my efforts. I remain at the mercy of my neighbors and the greater world. It's a humbling and frightening thing to recognize.
In November, the World Fantasy Convention in Montreal will honor Megan Lindholm with a Lifetime Achievement Award. It is gratifying to be noticed this way, but there is also a moment of 'wait! Does that mean everyone thinks I am finished writing books?' I do not think I am, but I've come to realize that I am much slower to create than I once was. Still, I look forward to the quieter months of winter when the garden and land do not demand so much of me. we will discover then if there is one more book left in my mind and hands.
Now, you may notice that I've set the comments for this blog to 'moderated'. Meaning that none of your comments will be automatically posted. I'm sad to say that on previous posts that were set to automatic, there are now some very odd comments recomending magical ways to win the lottery , a mate, or return a wandering spouse to your arms. I don't endorse any of these, and I'm gradually making my way through the old blogs to remove those comments. And I am sure that some of you will go wandering back through the old blogs for their entertainment value! Enjoy.
Happy November, everyone!
