It's a nice counter to the sad little rejection I received from Asimov's, for "Savariian and the Aliens". Gardner said some nice things about my writing, but the story didn't work for him. This is actually not as bad as it sounds, as I'm pretty sure I want to do some drastic revisions on it before I send it out again. I think it may actually be three stories -- eep. Not likely to get to it anytime soon, I'm afraid.
In other news, the Australian woman whom I was supposed to host for the conference isn't going to be able to make it. I'm a little disappointed; it would have been interesting, I think. But on the whole, I think I'm more relieved not to have a houseguest to feed and chauffeur around this weekend. Would have been okay, but I think there'll be enough stuff to think about that I'll be happy not to have to spend the extra energy. Everyone's gearing up for the conference; I'm still finalizing catering decisions with Cucina (we're renting the place from them Friday night for dinner with the speakers, which I think will be just lovely), but the rest of the food planning is set, I think. Fingers crossed.
I didn't actually read any of my students' stories yesterday; I re-read Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire instead, first curled up in my papasan, then in a nice hot bath, then in bed, under my lovely Karen-quilt. I've been feeling oddly stressed lately; a little panicky and weepy, for no reason that I can figure out. Aside from missing Kev, everything in my life is actually going really well; finances are slowly coming under control, I'm on schedule academically, even the writing isn't doing too bad. I've actually been working out; despite a lingering cough, I generally feel more fit than I have in a long time, and I've been taking my meds regularly. So why the stress? Most confusing. Anyway, I spent yesterday afternoon and evening just goofing off, which seemed to help a little. I did wake up stressed again this morning, but so far, I've managed to subsume it in work. Work good. :-)
I should get back to it too, so my students don't rise up against me tomorrow. I'll talk to y'all later; have a good week, my dears.
Oh -- and go read Strange Horizons! Very strong week, with an article on medieval clothing from the fabulous Rachel Hartman, a review from the very sharp Greg Beatty, a funny little Halloween poem, and a very interesting story from Justine Larbalestier, "The Cruel Brother". I'm very curious to see if we get any flak for publishing this story; it could be controversial. Let me know what you think of it...