Looking back to look ahead

​It’s that time of year when we look back at our accomplishments with pride and maybe some regret and set goals for the coming year. I’ve encountered more than a few obstacles and made some discoveries  as I retired from my teaching career to take up writing full-time. First, what I’ve accomplished:

1. It feels daunting to release the second book in a series, which I did in June with the launch of The Salamander’s Smile with Digital Fiction. Both Three Wells of the Sea and Salamander received a reworking of the covers to reflect the series. Check them out.
2. Drafting a novel is much faster when you don’t have a day job. I have completed the first draft of a science fiction novel set on the first colony planet outside the solar system. I can’t wait to get back to revise this one. It is shaping up well.
3. And . . . By the end of December, I will have drafted Halls of the Sunless, book three in the Three Wells universe. I started this draft on September 11, so I feel I am reaping the rewards of having long spans of time to write. I should have this novel to alpha readers in the spring.
4. My novelette The Wood will be re-released under Digital Fiction’s logo this coming year, as will a reprint of my short story “Rock and Roll Will Never Die,” which first appeared in New Myths Magazine.
5. My short story “Teens Teach Tech” will appear soon in the anthology Undercurrents published by Wordfire Press. What happens when a high school student teaches a woman with Alzheimer’s how to navigate virtual reality?
6. I’ve rekindled my love for embroidery since I have a bit more time, as well as yoga. So, there's that.

I feel so fortunate to have the opportunity to devote time to my writing. My goals for next year are:

1. Deliver a completed manuscript for Halls of the Sunless to my publisher.
2. Complete my SF novel and get it into the hands of my review team (by the way, if you’d like to be part of my team, SIGN UP HERE. You will receive pre-published stories and novels in exchange for your honest opinions and reviews.)
3. Write at least two short stories.
4. Outline and draft another SF novel.
5. Read thirty books.
6. Walk. My teaching job required me to be on my feet most of the day. Now that I’m writing, I’m on my butt all day. This has been the toughest adjustment in this new lifestyle.

I hope this season of reflection allows you time to look back as well as ahead to the year that awaits.  Don’t be afraid to give yourself a pat on the back for all you’ve accomplished and the good times you’ve shared with family and friends.
Happy Winter Solstice!