This and That

First of all, many thanks to all of you who sent condolesences about poor Countess.  She was a sweet girl.  I miss her.  This is the first time since I started riding 15 years ago that I don't have a horse of my own, but I'm not sure I can afford the upkeep any longer, not having any income to speak of since I retired from teaching to write full time.  Well, we'll see.  At least there's usually a horse at the stable I can ride in exchange for doing chores (which I would do anyway).  I'm not giving that up.

I'm about one third through the next novel, at least going by word count, and have just introduced Gran Cyd's new baby, now about 18 months old.  She (I think it's a girl) seems rather small.  As soon as Jame saw her, I knew that there was something special/different/strange about her, but I don't yet know what.  Nominally, she's Jame's too.  Chingetai is probably the real father, but he seems reluctant to claim her.  What's going on?  Any suggestions?

Oh, and this was my Xmas card last year.  I've just discovered the joys of quilt fabric, although I don't yet know how to quilt.  I'm currently thinking about a fabric/yarn/bead 6'x3' wall hanging based on nautilius shells.  Small projects for me?  Oh no.