It does seems as though I have been sitting in a nest at the top of a tree, isolated from the world, but I’ve been writing–responding to editors for the most part. I have two nonfiction books coming out this spring Writing for Children and Young Adults (3d edition) and Thicker Than Blood: Adoptive Parenting in teh Modern World and that means tons of work just now. This takes planning so I’m up, breakfasted, and have taken the dog for a walk before the sun comes up. It’s manageable. I have two different editors–both talented–but they couldn’t be more different in what they want. I like editors–they make my work shine. (I first wrote “whine”, but that’s what I do). They do make me work, though and deadlines loom. Luckily, my deadlines are spaced so the edited version of the books aren’t due in at the publishers in the same week. Both editors want the Chicago Manual of Style format. I did my PhD program using MLA style and I taught in the nursing department for years and used APA style. I manage to feel comfortable in Chicago Manual of Style–except for the citations. In the citation area commas, periods, and the order of names jump around and take on all the styles. The editors are on their own there. All will be accomplished.I don’t have a release date yet on either book–they will wait until they have my returned copy. I’ll string up the banners when I know when to do it.

I managed a day away on the snowshoeing trails.