While the western US continues to suffer from dangerous heat, here in the urban wilds of eastern Pennsylvania, we’ve cooled down a bit, and there are other signs the season is waning. I’ve been peering over my monitor at the apple tree next to my patio. It is an aging tree covered in woodpecker holes, that has seemed like it was on its last legs since we moved in. This year, however, the limbs have been sagging with a bumper crop. I confess that I do not harvest or eat them. They are edible but not top grade. Besides, I have been entertained by the local wildlife. During the day, woodpeckers, chickadees, finches, jays, cardinals, sparrows and even hummingbirds have their way with the fruit still on the branches. Sometimes all at once. In the evening the deer grab the ones on the ground, even the remains left after the birds and squirrels pick at the fruit. It is still summer, however, as the apple-scarfing deer remind me. They are welcome as long as they don’t graze on my trees or flowers.
There were six Friday evening
Excuse me if my thoughts have turned to seasons. It may be because I have been writing stories in which the characters are wrapped up for warmth and sport noses that are pink from the cold. Well Done, Harry still needs one more editorial pass and at least one spoken read through. Due September 30, it takes place in February 1821.
My story for the Belle’s Holiday collection, The Merry Belles is due next Monday. It takes place, of course, in December 1821. I made great progress this past weekend, but I still have another third or so to go. I have to solve that murder! I did decide on a title. It will be The Angel’s Announcement for reasons that will be obvious when you read it, but it will have a subtitle, A Holiday Homicide.
On the other hand, Dukes All Night Long went live last week, and it is full of stories, including my Music in the Night, firmly set in summer.
Last week I spent three days with half an ear on the Regency Fiction Writer’s virtual conference in Zoom. There were several terrific presentations, story inspiration, and things to consider. In addition to cutting into writing time, it ensured that I will not get a newsletter out this month. Sorry about that. This week? BICHOK. Butt in chair; hands on keyboard. But first, coffee.