It's been an eventful fall, what with Riley's 12th birthday - he thinks he's still a puppy - a sneak attack on Bob's immune system by some unpleasant bronchial bug from which he is just recovering, and my weekend at the Surrey Writers' Conference. That's Surrey, B.C. not England, I'm afraid.

Getting in to the conference was a challenge as George Bush and Bill Clinton were speaking at the hotel on the same day and the street outside was crowded with protestors and consequent security. No, I didn't see the ex-presidents even from a distance, but I did enjoy meeting writers Susannah Kearsley and Daniel Kalla. Dr. Kalla's father delivered both my sons many moons ago. I went home inspired to write more stories, and have recently had two more accepted by Peoples' Friend Magazine.

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and a happy and peaceful New Year.

Kay