October 5, 2009 – I think Frieda loves Maria’s potholders because Maria made them. So do I. I put the potholder on the wall and tell Frieda to put her head down, and she does.
  Dogs are mysterious to me.
  I am impressed with how much Frieda gets into the spirit of work. Today she and I are going out to take some photos of red leaves. I have not yet been able to get the shot I want. Maybe after lunch.
  Today, I sent off my second children’s book, a photo book, “The Dogs Of Bedlam Farm.” It was a surprising book, it came out differently than I thought. I think I am beginning to get a feel for the style I want in these books, and Sally Doherty, my editor, will undoubtedly help me get the rest of the way. I loved writing this story.
  Next, I am working on a synopsis for my second novel, tentatively called “Rose Running.” I have never done outlines or synopses, and my Random House Editor Jennifer Hershey has suggested that that needs to change. So it is.
 I am into my fourth round, and I like doing it. Helps me focus the story.
 I was so fixed in so many ways about life, and so many of those ways were simply wrong. I am grateful for the chance to change them, and lucky to have people who are willing to help me do it.
  The second novel will be set in the Adirondacks, where I am going to spend a chunk of the winter researching. Maria will come and go, as she has to work. I guess it will be haunting and lonely. Sort of the point.