When she opened the back door, the cats shot out between Willard's legs and headed for the field. He snapped at them and growled but made no real effort to make contact. They had sharp claws and he didn't. Jane fixed a cup of coffee and went outside as well. She looked around the yard at her fledgling gardens and realized it was going to be an awfully nice day to do a bit of weeding and deadheading.

"You're not moving very fast this morning, are you?" Shelley asked as she came through the gate. "Sleep hair, still in your robe."

"I've been up for hours, though," Jane said. "I've been playing with the computer. I've realized that since Priscilla's house is on a steep hill, there have to be lots of steps going up and down to rooms at different levels."

"Aren't you making this even harder for yourself?"

"Yes, but that's part of the fun. Do we have anything at the renovation we have to do today? I thought I might tidy up the yard if not."

"I don't think so. Bitsy called a few minutes ago. She's working with her attorney on our contract today."

"Good for her. I half hope it's not as good as we'll like."

"That's because, like your son, you have found another obsession," Shelley said, taking a seat at the picnic table with her own cup of steaming coffee. "But keep in mind, even if the contract is okay, this isn't a full-time job. And it involves a lot of shopping."

"There is that to consider. Not to mention making a bit of extra money."

"Quite a bit," Shelley said, "if we get our way. I think you're right about it being a good day to garden."

"I had a bit of a coup and impressed Todd this morning," Jane said, smiling. She told Shelley about the nines tricks.

"That can't be right all the time," Shelley said.

"Try it and see," Jane said smugly, standing up and yawning. "I need to shower. Want to lunch somewhere?"

"Of course."