Shocking title for a post, I know. Who else in the world would think to name a post “Happy New Year!” on New Year’s day, after all.
I am nothing if not derivative.
2024 – A Year of Loss and Recovery
I will be the first to admit, COVID knocked the wind out of me. Perhaps not physically, but certainly emotionally. Not only that, demands on my time were at an all-time high, elevating stress levels further than usual.
We had cause to celebrate with the arrival of a new member of the family early in the year.
Then, my mom passed away. Her passing wasn’t unexpected but that doesn’t make it any easier. I went from the person responsible for her care to the person responsible for her estate. Not a feel good story. Just more/different things to deal with.
Then I met a talented illustrator who was interested in bringing a new book to life. Super Sonya vs the Woodpecker began its life in early May. The work on the book helped to resurrect some of my creativity. I talk about it in some of my other posts.
The day job was challenging but rewarding (but challenging). I was able to spend time with friends and family.
I also rediscovered my joy of reading. That has been missing for several years as I focused exclusively on generating my own content. I finally realized that to write well, I need to read too.
All-in-all, good times.
I didn’t get as much writing done as I would have liked, but creativity and motivation are sometimes slow to rebuild.
2025 – Moving Forward
Super Sonya vs the Woodpecker is being released February 20th. That in itself is worth celebrating. I fully expect Mik Murdoch 5 to be finally finished and published. I also have a trip planned to research a brand-new book that I’ve had in my mind for several years.
Let’s not forget, I have three other series that need new books: Outkast Klub, Jack Kane and The Goddess Renewed.
Will 2025 be a Happy New Year, too?
If (and it’s a BIG if) I’m able to make a dent in all the projects I need to take care of it will be a record year. Even if I don’t, I think I’m moving in the right direction.
Happy New Year
Whether you have had a trying 2024 or a wildly successful one, I hope you are able to face 2025 with a spirit of hope and optimism. At the end of the day, our attitude can directly impact our success or failure.
Happy New Year to you and your loved ones. I hope we have the opportunity to connect.
