1. I’m designing a blackwork piece and with the outline finally in place, I can start work on the tiles. I make little shapes then nudge and tessellate them into a pleasant pattern.

2. Some of the kids do double takes when they see me. Others launch into hugs.

2b. The costumes are colourful and amazingly numerous.

2c. As nice as it is to see everyone again, the evening reinforces that I made the right decision.

3. Strange rolls onto her back and stretches her legs – the look impossibly long when she does that. Her belly is bright white and soft.