Newsletter July 2009

Hello everyone,

Happy 4th of July!

Yes, I realized that I didn't do a newsletter in June, but in my defense, we bought a house and sold a house, and I was away on work travel every week in June. Life was hectic. But I'm back in town for two solid weeks, and we are deep in packing hell. The movers come on Tuesday, so we have quite a bit of packing to do before then. Plus we have to get a new couch, TV, entertainment center, rugs, etc. Thank goodness for overtime! Oh wait, I'm salaried. (That's a little joke for my boss, who gets the newsletter.)

Abby-wise, things are going great. She continues to walk and talk up a storm. In fact, she never sits still, except when we strap her into a high chair and feed her. She eats a ton, but doesn't gain wait. I guess the secret is to never stop moving. She has started to put together sentences, and my favorite so far has been "hi dada!" Hey, two words makes a sentence. Trust me.

Writing-wise, I am making progress on the joint novel. I created a behind-the-scenes document that lays out the rules of magic and ghosts in our world. We won't reveal most of it in this story, but it will help us be consistent in how we incorporate the supernatural, and it will come in handy when we write sequels. I also analyzed the plot, tore it apart, and then put it back together in a stronger, tighter package. I have a bit of work ahead of me, but version 2 should be the last of the big changes. After that, we should be down to polishing.

Once we move, I'll have more time/energy to get working on the changes, but partially it is the activation barrier. It is a daunting project, and starting is the hardest part. It's like getting into a cold pool. You know it will be nice once you are in, but you have a hard time jumping in or even sticking your foot in. It is a commitment, and once you start, you have to keep going.

Once I finish moving into my new place, I'll be able to dive in feet first. Until then, I've been reading lots of peer books (urban fantasy and mystery mostly). I've recommended Randy Wayne White and Robert Crais before, but now I'll add Greg Van Eekhout for his story Norse Code. Very fun read, and refreshing to experience a story that uses Norse mythology as its base. A welcome change of pace.

Enjoy your summer. Read lots.

--Todd