January 2nd

I wonder when schools start back? I’ll have to remember to ask Mom. It feels so strange after teaching for three years to not be going back to school after the holidays. I usually love school this time of year. The kids are refreshed and excited to be back. The promise of spring is just around the corner. The schoolyear is halfway done, and work on the end of the year musicals can begin. Last year at this time, we were just starting auditions for “Annie Jr”, and I was so excited. It turned out amazing in the end, and I know that is an experience I will never forget. A part of me is sad now knowing that I do not have a program to work on, or a group of kids to lead.

On the other hand, I am very happy to be working on my new book. There are so many ideas flowing through me! I also want to start a story for a special project. I am not sure how safe it is to work on two projects at once, but I am going to try. I get burned out on one thing so easily that I think I will give this a shot and see what happens. There is only so much that books about how to write and other writers can really tell you about the process of writing. Some books will say “never do this” or “you can only do this” but the truth is that writing is extremely personal. One person can only say what works for them, or at the very most, what has worked for the writers they have known and taught. I am still learning about what works for me, but I feel that I am on the edge of success in figuring out a routine.

I sense that many good things will happen with my writing this year. It’s as if I have been given a new start and I am just now realizing the tremendous gift that is in my life.