I have many photos and observations to post, but I’m not going to. Instead, I will sit here in the parking lot outside a public library and continue downloading Part II of A Storm of Swords audiobook by George R.R. Martin. I’ve listened to just over 60 hours of his A Song of Fire and Ice series in an attempt to get better acquainted with high fantasy.

My observations after listening to the first two volumes can be summed up thus: Mr. Martin isn’t afraid of a little killin’ in his stories, he’s not hung up on happy endings and his women characters are terrific. Finally, high fantasy often makes me laugh inappropriately, even as I’m enjoying it. The bit about the unborn child destined to be “the stallion that mounts the world” never fails to make me giggle like an eight-year old. Can you imagine heading off to school with a title like that?

“Hi, my name is Benny.”

“Hi Benny. My name is Stallion Who Mounts the World. What did you bring for lunch?”

On the traveling front, I had a marvelous time at the Frye Festival in Moncton and after I get home from the current trip I’m heading off to New York. After that I’ll be at the North Words Festival in Yellowknife and later the Saskatchewan Writer’s Festival. At the same time as I gallivant about I’m writing madly away on my latest project.

Thanks to those who have taken the time to write to me about Woefield. It’s great to get feedback from readers. Thanks also to those who voted in the Name That Hen competition. Henelope appreciates having a democratically appointed name, though she is concerned about voter apathy and low turnout.

I have several photos readers have sent in and I’ll post those when I’m home next. In the meantime, I’ll be warring it up at King’s Landing and points north with Tyrion and Co.

xox