Maria has made her second Sparky Bag (already sold). She wrote on her blog that if we sold the farm, she might burn down the Studio Barn rather than let anybody else work in there. Hmmm. Might be a reason to pause. She is only making  a few bags, as they are time-consuming, but it is great fun to see them evolve.

I had good creative news as well. I finished the first round of my short story book, and have been instructed by everyone in my life – agent, editor, Maria – to take a few days off. They don’t realize that I don’t know how to do that, and have never done that. The very idea panics me. It is suggested that except for the blog, I not write for a few days. I am allowed to take photos and read.

Thursday, I have the second round of the story-telling workshop at LARAC in Glens Falls. And Friday, my daughter Em is coming up and we are making a joint appearance at the Red Fox Bookstore in Glens Falls. She will read from her new book “90 per cent of the game is half mental,” and I will offer a sneak preview of my new novel, “Rose In A Storm.” And we will be happy to talk about writing. Pearl is coming, (the Yellow Lab who lived her and moved to Brooklyn with Em) and her former vet, Jeff Meyer says he might be coming as well to heckle Em (he is a huge Mets fan).

I have the feeling it will be a fun evening. Izzy and Rose got their annual checkups today. Both are in great shape, although Izzy has to shed a few winter pounds.

Tomorrow I have to take my truck in for service and inspection and go shopping. I have to think about this time off thing. I have a new book idea, and I have a sequel to the novel to do.