Oh well

I had this daft idea I might have redecorated round the fireplace formerly known as a gatestoop by now, but I was wrong. So here it is, still getting used to its sudden change in circumstances.

I've just started a new OU course - The Art of English - which is my first at Level 3, so the study is likely to stay this way until I've got to grips with all the new jargon. I'm making no rash predictions as to when that might be, since I'm still wading through the first chapter, midway through my very own Groundhog Day number 3.

Of rejection, gatestoops and fireplaces

I just got my first real rejection ever! From a publisher, that is. I feel inordinately pleased because he spared the time to explain why the piece wasn't suitable, which is greatly appreciated. Kudos to that editor!

I ought to be working on another story while that warm inner glow lasts, but the builders are still thundering about the house, rearranging a couple of doorways upstairs and finishing off the new fireplace in the study. I'm also inordinately pleased with the fire surround, which this time last Thursday was still a gatestoop (the one on the left, to be precise). Combined with a bit of carved stone found behind the damaged stone lintel it makes a far better fireplace than the seventies concoction we've just removed. I'm looking forward to moving back into the study before the start of my next OU course, but in the meantime it's all a bit distracting.