There isn’t much as cool as starting the new year–and the new decade– with a full moon, a blue moon, a clear Caribbean sky, temps in the 80s, sea air, family members nearby, and a ginger bush cat with an enormous sense of humor. I’m feeling pretty lucky.

I like to do a review of the year on New Year’s Day. I’m a bit late (blame vacation), but regarding writing, here’s what I’ve learned.

1. I’m a lousy blogger. It seems like something I would be terrific at. I love my computer. I love to talk. I love to write. But the truth is, when I’m done with my “real” job (mostly computer and writing) and then done with my “writing” job (mostly computer and writing) the last thing I want to do is spend another minute on the computer writing! I love answering emails, though.  That I do most any time!  I guess conversations with people are more fun for me than casting thoughts into the blogosphere.

2. Undisciplined ideas can wreck a novel draft the way an untrained German Shepherd can wreck a house. I’ve hadboth, so I know!  I think that’s why I’ve struggled so on Lonnie Squires novel # 3. Too many ideas full of energy running around tearing up the carpet. Gotta get that under control and soon.

3. You never know how your work will affect even the most unlikely people! I’m more mindful now than ever of the importance of writing “true.”

There’s more, of course, but I’m still on vacation on that Caribbean Island and don’t want to think about it all too hard!

Happy New Year to all! I’ll blog when I can. You can always contact me via email.