Back at it

It's January 6, Three Kings' Day, and the day I usually take down my Christmas lights. Couldn't do it. I'm blaming it on the cold weather. True, it's colder than usual in Mobile, but I could have at least unplugged them from the timer. Couldn't do it. Like my granddaughter, Maggie Rose, I love all the colors. Maybe tomorrow. But the weather channel is forecasting rain tomorrow. Maybe on Saturday, if it's not raining.

I did, however, fight my procrastinating nature hard enough to open up the file on "Embedded" and give another tweak or two to the first 30 pages. (I was supposed to start on page 89, but every time I open the story, I begin a review of every page. I'm about to be in trouble with this edit cycle since there are about 400 pages in the story. Maybe tomorrow I'll do better.)

Next on the agenda is getting back at my YA attempt. It's a fantasy piece that I want to write to appeal to the guys. I need to research the language and syntax of coming-of-age boys. I plan to spend more time at grandson Jeff's baseball games (he's playing for Spring Hill College Badgers this year). I'll probably spend some time at granddaughter Johanna's basketball games (Mobile Christian School) as well. I know the story I want to write, but can't guess at the dialogue until I hear teens talk. Wish me luck.

There are a lot of interesting writing conferences and workshops I need to start researching in 2010. My memberships are offering a few to consider. SCBWI's spring fling is one that I'll check out. I sent my name in to Sisters in Crime's "Body Language" on-line workshop (got waitlisted for that one). Google will give me a lot more. And even though I'm not ready with anything, I'll also Google writing contests, and check everything against the Preditors and Editors site.

Well, you take care, and keep on keeping on. I'll try to do the same.

c j

2010

As 2009 slips into its final seconds, I am saddened by news that dear friends in faraway places are seriously ill, or have lost loved ones, or have themselves been welcomed home by God. Some of the news arrived over the past week as responses to Christmas cards I sent.

It hits home how finite are our years on this earth, and how very important is each moment with family and friends.

The second hand has now turned another hour, and a year and a decade have moved into history. I want to make the most of this special moment . . .

I wish you success in everything you do, and a Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous New Year.

c j