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1000 results for “yoga_and_more”
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@yoga_and_more @BlumeEvolution @realbloginista @angeldruckt
Eben gerade gab einen Bericht darüber, über diesen #Zionismus und der aufzeigte in wie weit #Radikalismus, #Rassismus, #Antisemitismus und #Neoliberalismus damit verflochten sind.
Wie primitiv müssen Menschen sein die da keinen Zusammenhang finden?
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@yoga_and_more @BlumeEvolution @realbloginista @angeldruckt
Eben gerade gab einen Bericht darüber, über diesen #Zionismus und der aufzeigte in wie weit #Radikalismus, #Rassismus, #Antisemitismus und #Neoliberalismus damit verflochten sind.
Wie primitiv müssen Menschen sein die da keinen Zusammenhang finden?
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@yoga_and_more @BlumeEvolution @realbloginista @angeldruckt
Eben gerade gab einen Bericht darüber, über diesen #Zionismus und der aufzeigte in wie weit #Radikalismus, #Rassismus, #Antisemitismus und #Neoliberalismus damit verflochten sind.
Wie primitiv müssen Menschen sein die da keinen Zusammenhang finden?
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@yoga_and_more @BlumeEvolution @realbloginista @angeldruckt
Eben gerade gab einen Bericht darüber, über diesen #Zionismus und der aufzeigte in wie weit #Radikalismus, #Rassismus, #Antisemitismus und #Neoliberalismus damit verflochten sind.
Wie primitiv müssen Menschen sein die da keinen Zusammenhang finden?
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Vielen Dank für das Interesse & die Rückmeldung!
Habe auch gerade wieder einen Urlaub für #BwieBerlin zur neuen, deutschen #Buchstabiertafel drangegeben. Letztlich kann ich jedoch ohne das Interesse von einigen nichts bewirken.
Daher: Der #Dank ist ganz meinerseits! 🙌
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Die Empfindung teile ich, aber wir dürfen leider #Glauben nicht nur als dialogisch-monistisch definieren. Warnte 2016 (!): " #Verschwörungsglaube ist ein religiöses Problem.
Geheime Wahrheiten & Komplotte üben auf manche Menschen eine starke Faszination aus.
Der Glaube an Verschwörungen fußt dabei auf ähnlichen psychologischen Mechanismen wie der Glaube an Götter, kommentiert der Religionswissenschaftler Michael Blume."
https://www.spektrum.de/kolumne/meinung-verschwoerungsglaube-ist-ein-religioeses-problem/1418857
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Freue mich schon sehr auf den Abend des 8.7. in #Schorndorf & die #Wasserextreme -Tagung am 21.7. in Stuttgart - Hohenheim! 🙏📚🌈 https://www.akademie-rs.de/programm/veranstaltungen/einzelansicht/veranstaltung-25896
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Ja, autoritäre Menschen in allen Völkern, Kulturen & Religionen haben Angst (!) vor unabhängigen Kindern und also auch echter #Bildung. Deswegen konnte die pakistanische Friedens-Nobelpreisträgerin Malala Yousafzai auch nach überlebtem Terroranschlag nicht in ihre Heimat zurückkehren, lebt bis heute in #Birmingham ... #Malala #MalalaYousafzai https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malala_Yousafzai
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Ja, autoritäre Menschen in allen Völkern, Kulturen & Religionen haben Angst (!) vor unabhängigen Kindern und also auch echter #Bildung. Deswegen konnte die pakistanische Friedens-Nobelpreisträgerin Malala Yousafzai auch nach überlebtem Terroranschlag nicht in ihre Heimat zurückkehren, lebt bis heute in #Birmingham ... #Malala #MalalaYousafzai https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malala_Yousafzai
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Hallo Murat, [email protected] @yoga_and_more @brightsblog und 2 weitere Personen
Danke #ff und schönes Wochenende. * Text to Image API | DeepAI #text2img #Gabby
#stablediffusion #craiyon-V3 #dalle #dalleMini #lookingglassai #Runway
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🧘♀️Yoga in Hotel al The Ritz-Carlton, Bali in Indonesia
🧘♂️ https://www.aggynomadi.it/2024/07/31/yoga-in-hotel-the-ritz-carlton-bali-indonesia/
@yoguiignacio @yoga_and_more @yogajedi @Indonesia
#YogaGirlS #yogahotwife #yoga #yoganómada #yogateacher #yogaeveryday #yogaformen #Yogaday #hotels #luxurylifestyles #RelaxationMode #indonesian #balitravel
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Tues. March 17, 2026: Marketing Stats, Creative Feedback, and Art
image courtesy of Kev from PixabayTuesday, March 17, 2026
Dark Moon
Mercury Retrograde
Snowy and cold
Happy new week!
Pull up a chair and a beverage, this is a long post.
If you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, I hope you have a good one. Between living/working in NYC, where St. Patrick’s Day is even more of an excuse for people to behave badly than New Year’s Eve, and living on the Cape, where people were usually drunk by 10 AM – not a fan.
Friday, I did the laundry early, hauled it back, got it folded and put away. I headed up to the library to drop/off pick up books. There weren’t many to pick up, and I only dropped off those that were due, so I didn’t need the rolly cart. Swung by the post office to mail thank you notes from the birthday stuff. Ran two more errands on the way home. Was worn out, although I managed to get them done in good time, even on foot.
A Marketing Tangent
I got my royalties from the past few months (so I don’t have to have a Come to Jesus talk with D2D – we’re all caught up). The months I steadily marketed saw sales 10X the months I let it slide. I’m only spending about 15 minutes a day on weekdays marketing, but it made sales jump 10X.
Those sales cover a couple of bills. If I can maintain and then grow those sales, I am in good shape. Not that one can count on royalties, and they fluctuate, but if I can get back to steady and growing sales, it helps a lot.
The Nina Bell Mysteries are steadily growing their audience. If I can keep writing/releasing on a steady schedule and keep marketing steadily, we should be in good shape. Layering in the ANGEL HUNT series is a solid plan, because urban fantasy usually does well, and ANGEL HUNT was the most popular of the serials. There’s a lot of interest in the Coventina Circle series again, so getting those in the print editions and then finishing out the series is a good idea. 4 of the 9 planned books are out (I’ve got book 5 halfway written). After that’s complete, working on the spinoff series that goes deeper into urban fantasy rather than paranormal romantic suspense should work. Those spinoff characters introduced in RELICS AND REQUIEM, who show up now and again and even crossed over into the Gwen Finnegan series, are very popular. And getting back on the Topic Workbooks and prepping more for release should also help. The Topic Workbooks have always been steady sellers.
The trick is to find the sweet spot, both of creative energy to create the work, and to know when to release it. Every series has a different sweet spot. Wait too long between releases, and you lose audience. Release too much too quickly (in spite of the current binge desires many have), and people feel overwhelmed or as though if they miss one release, there will always be another. I find that especially true of the shorts, although sales of holiday-themed shorts bump up when promoted around their holiday.
It needs to first be about serving the work, or it can’t connect. But then, it also needs to look at the metrics of the business side of it, which are constantly shifting.
I’m getting questions about when LEGERDEMAIN will release in novel form from people who loved that world. The answer to that is that I’m not sure. The first arc of the serial (41 episodes) is pretty solid, but the rest sprawled too much, and it needs a lot of work to go in and tighten it as I adapt. I’ll have to pull out some of the shorter arcs and put them in separate stories, instead of trying to weave so many multiple plot lines at once. I need to have the main plot for each book, then a B subplot that gets resolved, then an over-reaching series arc that goes on for several books. Once in a while I can weave in maybe one more strand, but not the half dozen or so that were going on past episode 41. It will take a lot of work, and I need to have at least three volumes in solid shape before releasing anything. Plus, there were requests for spin-offs, especially when it came to the adventures of the all-female crew of the dirigible the Nervy Molls, and more built around the Fathomless Library. I’m so glad people connected to all of this, but it takes time and planning to make it all work, and I’m not sure I can do any of it this year.
Because I can’t drop the ball on the stage plays, either, and I have to get at least one-full length in shape for submission by the end of August, per a request. I can’t re-submit to this venue, so it needs to be something new.
I’d also love to get back to work on REP (the theatre company in space comedy) as a novel, but I can’t see fitting that in this year, either.
The most sales come from people who find me on Mastodon, with Instagram a close second. Bluesky is a distant third, with Tumblr and Threads trailing behind them. It took several years to build the audience on Mastodon and it’s a slower process than on other social media channels, but by posting/interacting regularly, marketing regularly, and taking part is games such as Writers Coffee Club, I’ve built connections there and am finding a growing audience. If all one does is post promos on a channel, sales don’t happen. There has to be interaction that has nothing to do with promotion, and that takes time and thought, which needs to be built into the workday.
I no longer promote on FB, and my sales have improved. TikTok was somewhat useful for serials, but hasn’t been for my books. I don’t do the kind of BookTok videos that work, nor am I willing to do them, and I’m not dealing with TikTok considering who owns it now.
Good to know.
I seriously would like to dump the FB accounts completely. Every time I open it, the first things that show up on my feed make me want to throw up. Blocking those accounts does nothing. For every block, 5 more of the gross things show up. The only reason I keep FB is because that’s how the city sends out information on emergencies. And birthday reminders, so I don’t miss anyone’s birthday (although I’m starting to add those to my paper datebook again).
The marketing that works (at the moment) is not brain surgery. It’s not spending a lot of money. It’s consistency.
It’s also looking at data over a period of months, and then tweaking one thing at a time, so you can see what kind of changes actually make a difference. I’m grateful to the Assets4Artists workshop and the local chamber workshop that gave me those tools to analyze this kind of data.
Now I have to figure out how to build on that, while continuing to have enough time and energy to keep feeding eager readers AND doing the more lucrative freelance writing work. I do that, knowing that I will have to look at the data every few months, and make changes. It’s not a career path on a highway, it’s more like floating down a river. Sometimes, there are rapids, and sometimes you get caught in the shallows.
The reason it takes me only 15 minutes a day is because I put in plenty of prep work. I have a content calendar for the month that I do about mid-month the previous month. (In other words, I better sit down and do April’s this week). It has the social media slots for each weekday, and what promo goes in each slot. I only promo one project per social media channel each day (except if I’ve dropped a day), so that I don’t saturate the channel and get annoying.
The only time I have the same ad on all channels on the same day is release day. Otherwise, I have them rotate through the channels: series ad, series video, single book ad for each book (one per day), single book video (ibid), and so forth. That way, it doesn’t come across as spam, even though content is repeated more than once in a month. Although I don’t do separate videos for each Topic Workbook. I have one for the group, and then flat ads for each book. For instance, February had a Nina Bell release (VICIOUS CRITIC), so all the promos in February were for various Nina Bell books. March has Nina, Topic workbooks, anthologies. April will include “Plot Bunnies” the short Twinkle Tavern mystery that happens near Easter, along with Nina, Workbooks, anthologies. And so forth.
As each book is going through the final production process, I work on the ad and the video. Or I edit/add to the series ad/video. That way, it’s all set up when it’s time to go. I’ve got the graphics, I’ve got the copy, I’ve got the links, I just follow the day’s schedule for the content calendar, and it takes 15 minutes to post through the channels. Each ad takes about an hour or so to create, but is designed to be evergreen and easily updatable if links or prices change. The videos take between 2-4 hours, depending how complicated they are. Longer, when the software I use updates claiming improvements that are actually detriments. As I explore new software, I might find something that helps me streamline that.
I treat myself like my own client. That was the biggest factor in making it work. It’s the same way I prepare materials for small business launches, and what I used to do for clients when I handled their social media promotions.
When I handled promos back in Twitter’s heyday, I could schedule an entire month’s worth of promos on Tweetdeck in about two hours. Under their current ownership and new name, I won’t deal with them. Hootsuite was useful to a point (not all the channels I need within my budget, but useful for some clients), but now they contract with the frozen water thugs, so I will not use them. Buffer doesn’t have enough of the channels I need within my budget.
Again, this is all about systems and information and tracking that then is used to support the creative work so the creative work can continue. It’s often difficult to face the reality of the business side of things, but it’s imperative if you want it to support the creative. They are the yin and yang of working in the arts.
Those who try to talk you out of paying attention to the business side of it are trying to exploit you and get your work for free, so watch out.
Back to the Life/Writing Stuff
On a completely different note, I did not get a slot in a 7-year residency for playwrighting. I knew it was a long shot, and they had 799 applicants. I had decided not to even apply, but then figured what the hell, nothing ventured and all that. But 7 years would mean I was in my early 70’s when we were done, and that’s not practical in my life right now. I’m glad I applied, and actually a little relieved I didn’t get it. Commuting to NYC at least once a month for 7 years would have been a lot, especially since they couldn’t guarantee the level of funding for the duration, just for the coming year. So why did I even apply? Because I felt there was possibility in the opportunity, and if I landed it, I was determined to find a way to make it work and grow in my playwrighting.
I am curious to see how many of the playwrights chosen actually stay in the residency program for the full seven years. I will follow along to keep track, and see how they blossom in the program (once they’re chosen).
Friday afternoon, I sorted out some practicalities with the ghostwriting client, and then go to work on the assignment due this Friday. I didn’t make as much progress as I hoped, but I have some ideas on how to fix that.
It started snowing around 3:30 or so. Sigh.
Got some research reading done for the May Morris project in the evening.
Didn’t sleep well Friday into Saturday. Up around the usual time, with Tessa shouting down the house because she wanted her breakfast. The morning routine was fine, although the 15-minute free write was more on the practical side than the creative side. But it sorted things out in my brain a bit, so it served its purpose.
It was supposed to snow from 9 AM – 1 PM, but started before 8.
After breakfast, I did some housework. I gesso’d my canvas for the collage. Tessa “helped” which means I now have to work a figure of a black cat into the collage to explain any cat hair I couldn’t wipe off. No, there isn’t any place in this house I can work where the cats can’t wander in.
Thankfully, Willa watched from a safe distance. Charlotte was asleep on the freshly made bed, and Bea was busy in the living room.
I got caught up doing more admin work than I hoped. I also re-read the first eight episodes I wrote of REP, and it’s funnier than I remembered, which is good. It plays a lot with tropes in theatre and science fiction.
I wrote myself into a corner on the latest chapter of BETTING MAN, and tried to get myself out of it, which was a chore. Not quite there yet.
I layered up and went out into the snow to pick up my mom’s prescription. They had two ready, which was nice. Usually, I go to pick up one, and the minute I get back home, there’s the notification for another one. Because making anything easier for their customers is beyond them. CVS = Corporate Vicious Hassle.
But there wasn’t hassle today, thank goodness. I stomped across town in the snow and into the wind, picked up the prescriptions, and picked up Chinese food on the way home. As I waited for my order, I read one of the local print publications, and there was an article by a colleague! I was so pleased for her, and it was very well done.
Trekked home, this time with the wind at my back, and we had an early lunch. It was yummy.
On the way back, as I trudged through the snow and wind, I had a breakthrough for something where I was stuck on the play CONSEQUENCE. It means going back and rewriting what I have of it so far, changing it a bit structurally, but still keeping it at three characters on stage. So that was good.
Then, I unpacked the 16 lb. bag of dry cat food and put it into smaller glass jars, which keeps it fresher and is easier to use. I set up the next couple of weeks’ worth of wet food on the shelf. I did some research. I finished reading the next book for review. It snowed on and off all afternoon, and there was a lot of wind. I started the spring cleaning, and got most of Tessa’s room done, although I still have to decide what I’m putting on the walls and how I’m hanging it. Cleaned all the lampshades, which always is more of a task than I remember.
Cooked dinner at night, read some more. Had busy dreams of working on various things all night with people I knew well in the dreamscape, but don’t recognize out of it. I felt like I put in a full day already when I woke up.
Good morning sessions of yoga and meditation. I figured out, in more detail, what to sort out in CONSEQUENCE during the morning free write, and also did some figuring out work on the sculpture.
After breakfast, I sat down and wrote a little over 1K on BETTING MAN, which was good. I’m still way behind where I hoped I’d be at this point, but I’m getting there. I wrote myself out of the corner, and had to remove a character from a previous chapter. But I made forward progress, which is important.
I did the Community Tarot Reading for the Week, which you can read here. I also wrote and submitted the book review, and scheduled the invoice to send on Monday morning.
I worked on some graphics that will be included on the sculpture, and started figuring out the text handout that will go with it.
I did research reading in afternoon and evening. I sort of kept an eye on the Oscars, but didn’t really watch them. I was, however, delighted with Autumn Durald Arkapaw’s win as the first woman to get an Oscar for cinematography. About damn time. I did some prep for Monday night’s Athena Project event (since my play was in it and all).
I did not sleep well, and was awake by 3 AM. When Tessa started complaining at 5, I just got up, without a fuss. Morning routine was fine. I like it when it’s early. It would be so easy to let the yoga or the meditation or the free write slide, but once you let it go for a day, it’s easy to keep letting it go, and the day is so much better when I don’t.
Again, consistency.
I knew Monday was going to be challenging because of all its moving parts.
By 8:30, I’d written a little over 1200 words on BETTING MAN.
I measured out the gesso’d canvas and started painting the background. The collage is satirical, so I’m using bold, bright colors, almost cartoonish. I had to mix the green with some white, to get it to the shade I wanted it, of “young child green grass.” Then I had to prop it and move chairs, etc. away from the kitchen table, so no curious cats would investigate it while it dried.
Bea also spent a good bit of time exploring my bedroom, and trying to figure out how to sneak on the bed without Charlotte noticing.
I received an invitation to join a playwrighting group about an hour and a half away (for a fee). I’d like to be involved with the group, but I am not an “aspiring” playwright. I’m a playwright, it’s part of my profession. I do not pay to work, I am paid to work. I sent a pleasant refusal.
Tried to catch up on some other email, and then switched over to the ghostwriting. I usually ghostwrite in the afternoon, but since my afternoon and evening were about playwrighting, on Monday, after I wrote my Nina quota and painted, I switched over to the ghostwriting. Since tomorrow, with the car repair, everything is a toss-up, I wanted to make sure I caught up yesterday and today, so I would be where I wanted, even if something goes cattywampus tomorrow.
I ran into an obstacle with the ghostwriting, and had to ask some questions, although I tried to work around them while I waited for an answer.
Honor Roll Playwrights session was on ZOOM for two hours, and that was good. We had a nice group. I rewrote/restructured what I have on CONSEQUENCE, and managed to move forward for a few pages. The restructuring didn’t add as much new material as I expected, which is good for pace, and I have a few ideas on raising the stakes.
After that session, I had a snack, then went back to the ghostwriting. They still didn’t answer my questions, which is unusual. So I will solider on in my own way. Whichever of the two roads I take will be the opposite of what they decide, and I will adjust as needed. I am behind where I hoped to be, and I don’t know how much I will get done tomorrow, with the car repair situation, so I will have to make up for it today and Thursday, in order to get it out on Friday on time.
We are having issues with a running toilet, so I had to make arrangements for maintenance to come this morning and take a look.
Cooked dinner and prepped for Athena Project. I gave the cats a snack right before the start of the session, so they settled down and napped, instead of crawling all over the computer and the screen.
It was a good session. Two of my friends who read earlier drafts of the play were there, and I appreciated it. It was a small group, but a good discussion, of both our plays. I appreciated that the readers loved the romance of the play as well as the more challenging elements, and they were all fascinated with the background.
Today, I will update the dramaturgy note at the back of the play to include thanks to Athena Project. It was great to work with the same dramaturg again, too. She really loves my work and gets the play.
It took me a bit of time to settle down and get to sleep. I woke up around 2:30 AM because of the rain. I managed to get to sleep again, and when I woke up a little after 5:30, it had changed over to snow. Sigh.
Today, I will send out thank you emails, update the Pages on Stages site with the play’s new information, deal with maintenance, try to get some work in on Nina, but the bulk of the day has to be about the ghostwriting.
This has been a really long post. Thanks for sticking with it! I hope you have a great day, and a great week.
#art #books #fiction #freelance #marketingStatistics #planning #playwrighting #reading #writing -
Tues. March 17, 2026: Marketing Stats, Creative Feedback, and Art
image courtesy of Kev from PixabayTuesday, March 17, 2026
Dark Moon
Mercury Retrograde
Snowy and cold
Happy new week!
Pull up a chair and a beverage, this is a long post.
If you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, I hope you have a good one. Between living/working in NYC, where St. Patrick’s Day is even more of an excuse for people to behave badly than New Year’s Eve, and living on the Cape, where people were usually drunk by 10 AM – not a fan.
Friday, I did the laundry early, hauled it back, got it folded and put away. I headed up to the library to drop/off pick up books. There weren’t many to pick up, and I only dropped off those that were due, so I didn’t need the rolly cart. Swung by the post office to mail thank you notes from the birthday stuff. Ran two more errands on the way home. Was worn out, although I managed to get them done in good time, even on foot.
A Marketing Tangent
I got my royalties from the past few months (so I don’t have to have a Come to Jesus talk with D2D – we’re all caught up). The months I steadily marketed saw sales 10X the months I let it slide. I’m only spending about 15 minutes a day on weekdays marketing, but it made sales jump 10X.
Those sales cover a couple of bills. If I can maintain and then grow those sales, I am in good shape. Not that one can count on royalties, and they fluctuate, but if I can get back to steady and growing sales, it helps a lot.
The Nina Bell Mysteries are steadily growing their audience. If I can keep writing/releasing on a steady schedule and keep marketing steadily, we should be in good shape. Layering in the ANGEL HUNT series is a solid plan, because urban fantasy usually does well, and ANGEL HUNT was the most popular of the serials. There’s a lot of interest in the Coventina Circle series again, so getting those in the print editions and then finishing out the series is a good idea. 4 of the 9 planned books are out (I’ve got book 5 halfway written). After that’s complete, working on the spinoff series that goes deeper into urban fantasy rather than paranormal romantic suspense should work. Those spinoff characters introduced in RELICS AND REQUIEM, who show up now and again and even crossed over into the Gwen Finnegan series, are very popular. And getting back on the Topic Workbooks and prepping more for release should also help. The Topic Workbooks have always been steady sellers.
The trick is to find the sweet spot, both of creative energy to create the work, and to know when to release it. Every series has a different sweet spot. Wait too long between releases, and you lose audience. Release too much too quickly (in spite of the current binge desires many have), and people feel overwhelmed or as though if they miss one release, there will always be another. I find that especially true of the shorts, although sales of holiday-themed shorts bump up when promoted around their holiday.
It needs to first be about serving the work, or it can’t connect. But then, it also needs to look at the metrics of the business side of it, which are constantly shifting.
I’m getting questions about when LEGERDEMAIN will release in novel form from people who loved that world. The answer to that is that I’m not sure. The first arc of the serial (41 episodes) is pretty solid, but the rest sprawled too much, and it needs a lot of work to go in and tighten it as I adapt. I’ll have to pull out some of the shorter arcs and put them in separate stories, instead of trying to weave so many multiple plot lines at once. I need to have the main plot for each book, then a B subplot that gets resolved, then an over-reaching series arc that goes on for several books. Once in a while I can weave in maybe one more strand, but not the half dozen or so that were going on past episode 41. It will take a lot of work, and I need to have at least three volumes in solid shape before releasing anything. Plus, there were requests for spin-offs, especially when it came to the adventures of the all-female crew of the dirigible the Nervy Molls, and more built around the Fathomless Library. I’m so glad people connected to all of this, but it takes time and planning to make it all work, and I’m not sure I can do any of it this year.
Because I can’t drop the ball on the stage plays, either, and I have to get at least one-full length in shape for submission by the end of August, per a request. I can’t re-submit to this venue, so it needs to be something new.
I’d also love to get back to work on REP (the theatre company in space comedy) as a novel, but I can’t see fitting that in this year, either.
The most sales come from people who find me on Mastodon, with Instagram a close second. Bluesky is a distant third, with Tumblr and Threads trailing behind them. It took several years to build the audience on Mastodon and it’s a slower process than on other social media channels, but by posting/interacting regularly, marketing regularly, and taking part is games such as Writers Coffee Club, I’ve built connections there and am finding a growing audience. If all one does is post promos on a channel, sales don’t happen. There has to be interaction that has nothing to do with promotion, and that takes time and thought, which needs to be built into the workday.
I no longer promote on FB, and my sales have improved. TikTok was somewhat useful for serials, but hasn’t been for my books. I don’t do the kind of BookTok videos that work, nor am I willing to do them, and I’m not dealing with TikTok considering who owns it now.
Good to know.
I seriously would like to dump the FB accounts completely. Every time I open it, the first things that show up on my feed make me want to throw up. Blocking those accounts does nothing. For every block, 5 more of the gross things show up. The only reason I keep FB is because that’s how the city sends out information on emergencies. And birthday reminders, so I don’t miss anyone’s birthday (although I’m starting to add those to my paper datebook again).
The marketing that works (at the moment) is not brain surgery. It’s not spending a lot of money. It’s consistency.
It’s also looking at data over a period of months, and then tweaking one thing at a time, so you can see what kind of changes actually make a difference. I’m grateful to the Assets4Artists workshop and the local chamber workshop that gave me those tools to analyze this kind of data.
Now I have to figure out how to build on that, while continuing to have enough time and energy to keep feeding eager readers AND doing the more lucrative freelance writing work. I do that, knowing that I will have to look at the data every few months, and make changes. It’s not a career path on a highway, it’s more like floating down a river. Sometimes, there are rapids, and sometimes you get caught in the shallows.
The reason it takes me only 15 minutes a day is because I put in plenty of prep work. I have a content calendar for the month that I do about mid-month the previous month. (In other words, I better sit down and do April’s this week). It has the social media slots for each weekday, and what promo goes in each slot. I only promo one project per social media channel each day (except if I’ve dropped a day), so that I don’t saturate the channel and get annoying.
The only time I have the same ad on all channels on the same day is release day. Otherwise, I have them rotate through the channels: series ad, series video, single book ad for each book (one per day), single book video (ibid), and so forth. That way, it doesn’t come across as spam, even though content is repeated more than once in a month. Although I don’t do separate videos for each Topic Workbook. I have one for the group, and then flat ads for each book. For instance, February had a Nina Bell release (VICIOUS CRITIC), so all the promos in February were for various Nina Bell books. March has Nina, Topic workbooks, anthologies. April will include “Plot Bunnies” the short Twinkle Tavern mystery that happens near Easter, along with Nina, Workbooks, anthologies. And so forth.
As each book is going through the final production process, I work on the ad and the video. Or I edit/add to the series ad/video. That way, it’s all set up when it’s time to go. I’ve got the graphics, I’ve got the copy, I’ve got the links, I just follow the day’s schedule for the content calendar, and it takes 15 minutes to post through the channels. Each ad takes about an hour or so to create, but is designed to be evergreen and easily updatable if links or prices change. The videos take between 2-4 hours, depending how complicated they are. Longer, when the software I use updates claiming improvements that are actually detriments. As I explore new software, I might find something that helps me streamline that.
I treat myself like my own client. That was the biggest factor in making it work. It’s the same way I prepare materials for small business launches, and what I used to do for clients when I handled their social media promotions.
When I handled promos back in Twitter’s heyday, I could schedule an entire month’s worth of promos on Tweetdeck in about two hours. Under their current ownership and new name, I won’t deal with them. Hootsuite was useful to a point (not all the channels I need within my budget, but useful for some clients), but now they contract with the frozen water thugs, so I will not use them. Buffer doesn’t have enough of the channels I need within my budget.
Again, this is all about systems and information and tracking that then is used to support the creative work so the creative work can continue. It’s often difficult to face the reality of the business side of things, but it’s imperative if you want it to support the creative. They are the yin and yang of working in the arts.
Those who try to talk you out of paying attention to the business side of it are trying to exploit you and get your work for free, so watch out.
Back to the Life/Writing Stuff
On a completely different note, I did not get a slot in a 7-year residency for playwrighting. I knew it was a long shot, and they had 799 applicants. I had decided not to even apply, but then figured what the hell, nothing ventured and all that. But 7 years would mean I was in my early 70’s when we were done, and that’s not practical in my life right now. I’m glad I applied, and actually a little relieved I didn’t get it. Commuting to NYC at least once a month for 7 years would have been a lot, especially since they couldn’t guarantee the level of funding for the duration, just for the coming year. So why did I even apply? Because I felt there was possibility in the opportunity, and if I landed it, I was determined to find a way to make it work and grow in my playwrighting.
I am curious to see how many of the playwrights chosen actually stay in the residency program for the full seven years. I will follow along to keep track, and see how they blossom in the program (once they’re chosen).
Friday afternoon, I sorted out some practicalities with the ghostwriting client, and then go to work on the assignment due this Friday. I didn’t make as much progress as I hoped, but I have some ideas on how to fix that.
It started snowing around 3:30 or so. Sigh.
Got some research reading done for the May Morris project in the evening.
Didn’t sleep well Friday into Saturday. Up around the usual time, with Tessa shouting down the house because she wanted her breakfast. The morning routine was fine, although the 15-minute free write was more on the practical side than the creative side. But it sorted things out in my brain a bit, so it served its purpose.
It was supposed to snow from 9 AM – 1 PM, but started before 8.
After breakfast, I did some housework. I gesso’d my canvas for the collage. Tessa “helped” which means I now have to work a figure of a black cat into the collage to explain any cat hair I couldn’t wipe off. No, there isn’t any place in this house I can work where the cats can’t wander in.
Thankfully, Willa watched from a safe distance. Charlotte was asleep on the freshly made bed, and Bea was busy in the living room.
I got caught up doing more admin work than I hoped. I also re-read the first eight episodes I wrote of REP, and it’s funnier than I remembered, which is good. It plays a lot with tropes in theatre and science fiction.
I wrote myself into a corner on the latest chapter of BETTING MAN, and tried to get myself out of it, which was a chore. Not quite there yet.
I layered up and went out into the snow to pick up my mom’s prescription. They had two ready, which was nice. Usually, I go to pick up one, and the minute I get back home, there’s the notification for another one. Because making anything easier for their customers is beyond them. CVS = Corporate Vicious Hassle.
But there wasn’t hassle today, thank goodness. I stomped across town in the snow and into the wind, picked up the prescriptions, and picked up Chinese food on the way home. As I waited for my order, I read one of the local print publications, and there was an article by a colleague! I was so pleased for her, and it was very well done.
Trekked home, this time with the wind at my back, and we had an early lunch. It was yummy.
On the way back, as I trudged through the snow and wind, I had a breakthrough for something where I was stuck on the play CONSEQUENCE. It means going back and rewriting what I have of it so far, changing it a bit structurally, but still keeping it at three characters on stage. So that was good.
Then, I unpacked the 16 lb. bag of dry cat food and put it into smaller glass jars, which keeps it fresher and is easier to use. I set up the next couple of weeks’ worth of wet food on the shelf. I did some research. I finished reading the next book for review. It snowed on and off all afternoon, and there was a lot of wind. I started the spring cleaning, and got most of Tessa’s room done, although I still have to decide what I’m putting on the walls and how I’m hanging it. Cleaned all the lampshades, which always is more of a task than I remember.
Cooked dinner at night, read some more. Had busy dreams of working on various things all night with people I knew well in the dreamscape, but don’t recognize out of it. I felt like I put in a full day already when I woke up.
Good morning sessions of yoga and meditation. I figured out, in more detail, what to sort out in CONSEQUENCE during the morning free write, and also did some figuring out work on the sculpture.
After breakfast, I sat down and wrote a little over 1K on BETTING MAN, which was good. I’m still way behind where I hoped I’d be at this point, but I’m getting there. I wrote myself out of the corner, and had to remove a character from a previous chapter. But I made forward progress, which is important.
I did the Community Tarot Reading for the Week, which you can read here. I also wrote and submitted the book review, and scheduled the invoice to send on Monday morning.
I worked on some graphics that will be included on the sculpture, and started figuring out the text handout that will go with it.
I did research reading in afternoon and evening. I sort of kept an eye on the Oscars, but didn’t really watch them. I was, however, delighted with Autumn Durald Arkapaw’s win as the first woman to get an Oscar for cinematography. About damn time. I did some prep for Monday night’s Athena Project event (since my play was in it and all).
I did not sleep well, and was awake by 3 AM. When Tessa started complaining at 5, I just got up, without a fuss. Morning routine was fine. I like it when it’s early. It would be so easy to let the yoga or the meditation or the free write slide, but once you let it go for a day, it’s easy to keep letting it go, and the day is so much better when I don’t.
Again, consistency.
I knew Monday was going to be challenging because of all its moving parts.
By 8:30, I’d written a little over 1200 words on BETTING MAN.
I measured out the gesso’d canvas and started painting the background. The collage is satirical, so I’m using bold, bright colors, almost cartoonish. I had to mix the green with some white, to get it to the shade I wanted it, of “young child green grass.” Then I had to prop it and move chairs, etc. away from the kitchen table, so no curious cats would investigate it while it dried.
Bea also spent a good bit of time exploring my bedroom, and trying to figure out how to sneak on the bed without Charlotte noticing.
I received an invitation to join a playwrighting group about an hour and a half away (for a fee). I’d like to be involved with the group, but I am not an “aspiring” playwright. I’m a playwright, it’s part of my profession. I do not pay to work, I am paid to work. I sent a pleasant refusal.
Tried to catch up on some other email, and then switched over to the ghostwriting. I usually ghostwrite in the afternoon, but since my afternoon and evening were about playwrighting, on Monday, after I wrote my Nina quota and painted, I switched over to the ghostwriting. Since tomorrow, with the car repair, everything is a toss-up, I wanted to make sure I caught up yesterday and today, so I would be where I wanted, even if something goes cattywampus tomorrow.
I ran into an obstacle with the ghostwriting, and had to ask some questions, although I tried to work around them while I waited for an answer.
Honor Roll Playwrights session was on ZOOM for two hours, and that was good. We had a nice group. I rewrote/restructured what I have on CONSEQUENCE, and managed to move forward for a few pages. The restructuring didn’t add as much new material as I expected, which is good for pace, and I have a few ideas on raising the stakes.
After that session, I had a snack, then went back to the ghostwriting. They still didn’t answer my questions, which is unusual. So I will solider on in my own way. Whichever of the two roads I take will be the opposite of what they decide, and I will adjust as needed. I am behind where I hoped to be, and I don’t know how much I will get done tomorrow, with the car repair situation, so I will have to make up for it today and Thursday, in order to get it out on Friday on time.
We are having issues with a running toilet, so I had to make arrangements for maintenance to come this morning and take a look.
Cooked dinner and prepped for Athena Project. I gave the cats a snack right before the start of the session, so they settled down and napped, instead of crawling all over the computer and the screen.
It was a good session. Two of my friends who read earlier drafts of the play were there, and I appreciated it. It was a small group, but a good discussion, of both our plays. I appreciated that the readers loved the romance of the play as well as the more challenging elements, and they were all fascinated with the background.
Today, I will update the dramaturgy note at the back of the play to include thanks to Athena Project. It was great to work with the same dramaturg again, too. She really loves my work and gets the play.
It took me a bit of time to settle down and get to sleep. I woke up around 2:30 AM because of the rain. I managed to get to sleep again, and when I woke up a little after 5:30, it had changed over to snow. Sigh.
Today, I will send out thank you emails, update the Pages on Stages site with the play’s new information, deal with maintenance, try to get some work in on Nina, but the bulk of the day has to be about the ghostwriting.
This has been a really long post. Thanks for sticking with it! I hope you have a great day, and a great week.
#art #books #fiction #freelance #marketingStatistics #planning #playwrighting #reading #writing -
Tues. March 17, 2026: Marketing Stats, Creative Feedback, and Art
image courtesy of Kev from PixabayTuesday, March 17, 2026
Dark Moon
Mercury Retrograde
Snowy and cold
Happy new week!
Pull up a chair and a beverage, this is a long post.
If you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, I hope you have a good one. Between living/working in NYC, where St. Patrick’s Day is even more of an excuse for people to behave badly than New Year’s Eve, and living on the Cape, where people were usually drunk by 10 AM – not a fan.
Friday, I did the laundry early, hauled it back, got it folded and put away. I headed up to the library to drop/off pick up books. There weren’t many to pick up, and I only dropped off those that were due, so I didn’t need the rolly cart. Swung by the post office to mail thank you notes from the birthday stuff. Ran two more errands on the way home. Was worn out, although I managed to get them done in good time, even on foot.
A Marketing Tangent
I got my royalties from the past few months (so I don’t have to have a Come to Jesus talk with D2D – we’re all caught up). The months I steadily marketed saw sales 10X the months I let it slide. I’m only spending about 15 minutes a day on weekdays marketing, but it made sales jump 10X.
Those sales cover a couple of bills. If I can maintain and then grow those sales, I am in good shape. Not that one can count on royalties, and they fluctuate, but if I can get back to steady and growing sales, it helps a lot.
The Nina Bell Mysteries are steadily growing their audience. If I can keep writing/releasing on a steady schedule and keep marketing steadily, we should be in good shape. Layering in the ANGEL HUNT series is a solid plan, because urban fantasy usually does well, and ANGEL HUNT was the most popular of the serials. There’s a lot of interest in the Coventina Circle series again, so getting those in the print editions and then finishing out the series is a good idea. 4 of the 9 planned books are out (I’ve got book 5 halfway written). After that’s complete, working on the spinoff series that goes deeper into urban fantasy rather than paranormal romantic suspense should work. Those spinoff characters introduced in RELICS AND REQUIEM, who show up now and again and even crossed over into the Gwen Finnegan series, are very popular. And getting back on the Topic Workbooks and prepping more for release should also help. The Topic Workbooks have always been steady sellers.
The trick is to find the sweet spot, both of creative energy to create the work, and to know when to release it. Every series has a different sweet spot. Wait too long between releases, and you lose audience. Release too much too quickly (in spite of the current binge desires many have), and people feel overwhelmed or as though if they miss one release, there will always be another. I find that especially true of the shorts, although sales of holiday-themed shorts bump up when promoted around their holiday.
It needs to first be about serving the work, or it can’t connect. But then, it also needs to look at the metrics of the business side of it, which are constantly shifting.
I’m getting questions about when LEGERDEMAIN will release in novel form from people who loved that world. The answer to that is that I’m not sure. The first arc of the serial (41 episodes) is pretty solid, but the rest sprawled too much, and it needs a lot of work to go in and tighten it as I adapt. I’ll have to pull out some of the shorter arcs and put them in separate stories, instead of trying to weave so many multiple plot lines at once. I need to have the main plot for each book, then a B subplot that gets resolved, then an over-reaching series arc that goes on for several books. Once in a while I can weave in maybe one more strand, but not the half dozen or so that were going on past episode 41. It will take a lot of work, and I need to have at least three volumes in solid shape before releasing anything. Plus, there were requests for spin-offs, especially when it came to the adventures of the all-female crew of the dirigible the Nervy Molls, and more built around the Fathomless Library. I’m so glad people connected to all of this, but it takes time and planning to make it all work, and I’m not sure I can do any of it this year.
Because I can’t drop the ball on the stage plays, either, and I have to get at least one-full length in shape for submission by the end of August, per a request. I can’t re-submit to this venue, so it needs to be something new.
I’d also love to get back to work on REP (the theatre company in space comedy) as a novel, but I can’t see fitting that in this year, either.
The most sales come from people who find me on Mastodon, with Instagram a close second. Bluesky is a distant third, with Tumblr and Threads trailing behind them. It took several years to build the audience on Mastodon and it’s a slower process than on other social media channels, but by posting/interacting regularly, marketing regularly, and taking part is games such as Writers Coffee Club, I’ve built connections there and am finding a growing audience. If all one does is post promos on a channel, sales don’t happen. There has to be interaction that has nothing to do with promotion, and that takes time and thought, which needs to be built into the workday.
I no longer promote on FB, and my sales have improved. TikTok was somewhat useful for serials, but hasn’t been for my books. I don’t do the kind of BookTok videos that work, nor am I willing to do them, and I’m not dealing with TikTok considering who owns it now.
Good to know.
I seriously would like to dump the FB accounts completely. Every time I open it, the first things that show up on my feed make me want to throw up. Blocking those accounts does nothing. For every block, 5 more of the gross things show up. The only reason I keep FB is because that’s how the city sends out information on emergencies. And birthday reminders, so I don’t miss anyone’s birthday (although I’m starting to add those to my paper datebook again).
The marketing that works (at the moment) is not brain surgery. It’s not spending a lot of money. It’s consistency.
It’s also looking at data over a period of months, and then tweaking one thing at a time, so you can see what kind of changes actually make a difference. I’m grateful to the Assets4Artists workshop and the local chamber workshop that gave me those tools to analyze this kind of data.
Now I have to figure out how to build on that, while continuing to have enough time and energy to keep feeding eager readers AND doing the more lucrative freelance writing work. I do that, knowing that I will have to look at the data every few months, and make changes. It’s not a career path on a highway, it’s more like floating down a river. Sometimes, there are rapids, and sometimes you get caught in the shallows.
The reason it takes me only 15 minutes a day is because I put in plenty of prep work. I have a content calendar for the month that I do about mid-month the previous month. (In other words, I better sit down and do April’s this week). It has the social media slots for each weekday, and what promo goes in each slot. I only promo one project per social media channel each day (except if I’ve dropped a day), so that I don’t saturate the channel and get annoying.
The only time I have the same ad on all channels on the same day is release day. Otherwise, I have them rotate through the channels: series ad, series video, single book ad for each book (one per day), single book video (ibid), and so forth. That way, it doesn’t come across as spam, even though content is repeated more than once in a month. Although I don’t do separate videos for each Topic Workbook. I have one for the group, and then flat ads for each book. For instance, February had a Nina Bell release (VICIOUS CRITIC), so all the promos in February were for various Nina Bell books. March has Nina, Topic workbooks, anthologies. April will include “Plot Bunnies” the short Twinkle Tavern mystery that happens near Easter, along with Nina, Workbooks, anthologies. And so forth.
As each book is going through the final production process, I work on the ad and the video. Or I edit/add to the series ad/video. That way, it’s all set up when it’s time to go. I’ve got the graphics, I’ve got the copy, I’ve got the links, I just follow the day’s schedule for the content calendar, and it takes 15 minutes to post through the channels. Each ad takes about an hour or so to create, but is designed to be evergreen and easily updatable if links or prices change. The videos take between 2-4 hours, depending how complicated they are. Longer, when the software I use updates claiming improvements that are actually detriments. As I explore new software, I might find something that helps me streamline that.
I treat myself like my own client. That was the biggest factor in making it work. It’s the same way I prepare materials for small business launches, and what I used to do for clients when I handled their social media promotions.
When I handled promos back in Twitter’s heyday, I could schedule an entire month’s worth of promos on Tweetdeck in about two hours. Under their current ownership and new name, I won’t deal with them. Hootsuite was useful to a point (not all the channels I need within my budget, but useful for some clients), but now they contract with the frozen water thugs, so I will not use them. Buffer doesn’t have enough of the channels I need within my budget.
Again, this is all about systems and information and tracking that then is used to support the creative work so the creative work can continue. It’s often difficult to face the reality of the business side of things, but it’s imperative if you want it to support the creative. They are the yin and yang of working in the arts.
Those who try to talk you out of paying attention to the business side of it are trying to exploit you and get your work for free, so watch out.
Back to the Life/Writing Stuff
On a completely different note, I did not get a slot in a 7-year residency for playwrighting. I knew it was a long shot, and they had 799 applicants. I had decided not to even apply, but then figured what the hell, nothing ventured and all that. But 7 years would mean I was in my early 70’s when we were done, and that’s not practical in my life right now. I’m glad I applied, and actually a little relieved I didn’t get it. Commuting to NYC at least once a month for 7 years would have been a lot, especially since they couldn’t guarantee the level of funding for the duration, just for the coming year. So why did I even apply? Because I felt there was possibility in the opportunity, and if I landed it, I was determined to find a way to make it work and grow in my playwrighting.
I am curious to see how many of the playwrights chosen actually stay in the residency program for the full seven years. I will follow along to keep track, and see how they blossom in the program (once they’re chosen).
Friday afternoon, I sorted out some practicalities with the ghostwriting client, and then go to work on the assignment due this Friday. I didn’t make as much progress as I hoped, but I have some ideas on how to fix that.
It started snowing around 3:30 or so. Sigh.
Got some research reading done for the May Morris project in the evening.
Didn’t sleep well Friday into Saturday. Up around the usual time, with Tessa shouting down the house because she wanted her breakfast. The morning routine was fine, although the 15-minute free write was more on the practical side than the creative side. But it sorted things out in my brain a bit, so it served its purpose.
It was supposed to snow from 9 AM – 1 PM, but started before 8.
After breakfast, I did some housework. I gesso’d my canvas for the collage. Tessa “helped” which means I now have to work a figure of a black cat into the collage to explain any cat hair I couldn’t wipe off. No, there isn’t any place in this house I can work where the cats can’t wander in.
Thankfully, Willa watched from a safe distance. Charlotte was asleep on the freshly made bed, and Bea was busy in the living room.
I got caught up doing more admin work than I hoped. I also re-read the first eight episodes I wrote of REP, and it’s funnier than I remembered, which is good. It plays a lot with tropes in theatre and science fiction.
I wrote myself into a corner on the latest chapter of BETTING MAN, and tried to get myself out of it, which was a chore. Not quite there yet.
I layered up and went out into the snow to pick up my mom’s prescription. They had two ready, which was nice. Usually, I go to pick up one, and the minute I get back home, there’s the notification for another one. Because making anything easier for their customers is beyond them. CVS = Corporate Vicious Hassle.
But there wasn’t hassle today, thank goodness. I stomped across town in the snow and into the wind, picked up the prescriptions, and picked up Chinese food on the way home. As I waited for my order, I read one of the local print publications, and there was an article by a colleague! I was so pleased for her, and it was very well done.
Trekked home, this time with the wind at my back, and we had an early lunch. It was yummy.
On the way back, as I trudged through the snow and wind, I had a breakthrough for something where I was stuck on the play CONSEQUENCE. It means going back and rewriting what I have of it so far, changing it a bit structurally, but still keeping it at three characters on stage. So that was good.
Then, I unpacked the 16 lb. bag of dry cat food and put it into smaller glass jars, which keeps it fresher and is easier to use. I set up the next couple of weeks’ worth of wet food on the shelf. I did some research. I finished reading the next book for review. It snowed on and off all afternoon, and there was a lot of wind. I started the spring cleaning, and got most of Tessa’s room done, although I still have to decide what I’m putting on the walls and how I’m hanging it. Cleaned all the lampshades, which always is more of a task than I remember.
Cooked dinner at night, read some more. Had busy dreams of working on various things all night with people I knew well in the dreamscape, but don’t recognize out of it. I felt like I put in a full day already when I woke up.
Good morning sessions of yoga and meditation. I figured out, in more detail, what to sort out in CONSEQUENCE during the morning free write, and also did some figuring out work on the sculpture.
After breakfast, I sat down and wrote a little over 1K on BETTING MAN, which was good. I’m still way behind where I hoped I’d be at this point, but I’m getting there. I wrote myself out of the corner, and had to remove a character from a previous chapter. But I made forward progress, which is important.
I did the Community Tarot Reading for the Week, which you can read here. I also wrote and submitted the book review, and scheduled the invoice to send on Monday morning.
I worked on some graphics that will be included on the sculpture, and started figuring out the text handout that will go with it.
I did research reading in afternoon and evening. I sort of kept an eye on the Oscars, but didn’t really watch them. I was, however, delighted with Autumn Durald Arkapaw’s win as the first woman to get an Oscar for cinematography. About damn time. I did some prep for Monday night’s Athena Project event (since my play was in it and all).
I did not sleep well, and was awake by 3 AM. When Tessa started complaining at 5, I just got up, without a fuss. Morning routine was fine. I like it when it’s early. It would be so easy to let the yoga or the meditation or the free write slide, but once you let it go for a day, it’s easy to keep letting it go, and the day is so much better when I don’t.
Again, consistency.
I knew Monday was going to be challenging because of all its moving parts.
By 8:30, I’d written a little over 1200 words on BETTING MAN.
I measured out the gesso’d canvas and started painting the background. The collage is satirical, so I’m using bold, bright colors, almost cartoonish. I had to mix the green with some white, to get it to the shade I wanted it, of “young child green grass.” Then I had to prop it and move chairs, etc. away from the kitchen table, so no curious cats would investigate it while it dried.
Bea also spent a good bit of time exploring my bedroom, and trying to figure out how to sneak on the bed without Charlotte noticing.
I received an invitation to join a playwrighting group about an hour and a half away (for a fee). I’d like to be involved with the group, but I am not an “aspiring” playwright. I’m a playwright, it’s part of my profession. I do not pay to work, I am paid to work. I sent a pleasant refusal.
Tried to catch up on some other email, and then switched over to the ghostwriting. I usually ghostwrite in the afternoon, but since my afternoon and evening were about playwrighting, on Monday, after I wrote my Nina quota and painted, I switched over to the ghostwriting. Since tomorrow, with the car repair, everything is a toss-up, I wanted to make sure I caught up yesterday and today, so I would be where I wanted, even if something goes cattywampus tomorrow.
I ran into an obstacle with the ghostwriting, and had to ask some questions, although I tried to work around them while I waited for an answer.
Honor Roll Playwrights session was on ZOOM for two hours, and that was good. We had a nice group. I rewrote/restructured what I have on CONSEQUENCE, and managed to move forward for a few pages. The restructuring didn’t add as much new material as I expected, which is good for pace, and I have a few ideas on raising the stakes.
After that session, I had a snack, then went back to the ghostwriting. They still didn’t answer my questions, which is unusual. So I will solider on in my own way. Whichever of the two roads I take will be the opposite of what they decide, and I will adjust as needed. I am behind where I hoped to be, and I don’t know how much I will get done tomorrow, with the car repair situation, so I will have to make up for it today and Thursday, in order to get it out on Friday on time.
We are having issues with a running toilet, so I had to make arrangements for maintenance to come this morning and take a look.
Cooked dinner and prepped for Athena Project. I gave the cats a snack right before the start of the session, so they settled down and napped, instead of crawling all over the computer and the screen.
It was a good session. Two of my friends who read earlier drafts of the play were there, and I appreciated it. It was a small group, but a good discussion, of both our plays. I appreciated that the readers loved the romance of the play as well as the more challenging elements, and they were all fascinated with the background.
Today, I will update the dramaturgy note at the back of the play to include thanks to Athena Project. It was great to work with the same dramaturg again, too. She really loves my work and gets the play.
It took me a bit of time to settle down and get to sleep. I woke up around 2:30 AM because of the rain. I managed to get to sleep again, and when I woke up a little after 5:30, it had changed over to snow. Sigh.
Today, I will send out thank you emails, update the Pages on Stages site with the play’s new information, deal with maintenance, try to get some work in on Nina, but the bulk of the day has to be about the ghostwriting.
This has been a really long post. Thanks for sticking with it! I hope you have a great day, and a great week.
#art #books #fiction #freelance #marketingStatistics #planning #playwrighting #reading #writing -
Tues. March 17, 2026: Marketing Stats, Creative Feedback, and Art
image courtesy of Kev from PixabayTuesday, March 17, 2026
Dark Moon
Mercury Retrograde
Snowy and cold
Happy new week!
Pull up a chair and a beverage, this is a long post.
If you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, I hope you have a good one. Between living/working in NYC, where St. Patrick’s Day is even more of an excuse for people to behave badly than New Year’s Eve, and living on the Cape, where people were usually drunk by 10 AM – not a fan.
Friday, I did the laundry early, hauled it back, got it folded and put away. I headed up to the library to drop/off pick up books. There weren’t many to pick up, and I only dropped off those that were due, so I didn’t need the rolly cart. Swung by the post office to mail thank you notes from the birthday stuff. Ran two more errands on the way home. Was worn out, although I managed to get them done in good time, even on foot.
A Marketing Tangent
I got my royalties from the past few months (so I don’t have to have a Come to Jesus talk with D2D – we’re all caught up). The months I steadily marketed saw sales 10X the months I let it slide. I’m only spending about 15 minutes a day on weekdays marketing, but it made sales jump 10X.
Those sales cover a couple of bills. If I can maintain and then grow those sales, I am in good shape. Not that one can count on royalties, and they fluctuate, but if I can get back to steady and growing sales, it helps a lot.
The Nina Bell Mysteries are steadily growing their audience. If I can keep writing/releasing on a steady schedule and keep marketing steadily, we should be in good shape. Layering in the ANGEL HUNT series is a solid plan, because urban fantasy usually does well, and ANGEL HUNT was the most popular of the serials. There’s a lot of interest in the Coventina Circle series again, so getting those in the print editions and then finishing out the series is a good idea. 4 of the 9 planned books are out (I’ve got book 5 halfway written). After that’s complete, working on the spinoff series that goes deeper into urban fantasy rather than paranormal romantic suspense should work. Those spinoff characters introduced in RELICS AND REQUIEM, who show up now and again and even crossed over into the Gwen Finnegan series, are very popular. And getting back on the Topic Workbooks and prepping more for release should also help. The Topic Workbooks have always been steady sellers.
The trick is to find the sweet spot, both of creative energy to create the work, and to know when to release it. Every series has a different sweet spot. Wait too long between releases, and you lose audience. Release too much too quickly (in spite of the current binge desires many have), and people feel overwhelmed or as though if they miss one release, there will always be another. I find that especially true of the shorts, although sales of holiday-themed shorts bump up when promoted around their holiday.
It needs to first be about serving the work, or it can’t connect. But then, it also needs to look at the metrics of the business side of it, which are constantly shifting.
I’m getting questions about when LEGERDEMAIN will release in novel form from people who loved that world. The answer to that is that I’m not sure. The first arc of the serial (41 episodes) is pretty solid, but the rest sprawled too much, and it needs a lot of work to go in and tighten it as I adapt. I’ll have to pull out some of the shorter arcs and put them in separate stories, instead of trying to weave so many multiple plot lines at once. I need to have the main plot for each book, then a B subplot that gets resolved, then an over-reaching series arc that goes on for several books. Once in a while I can weave in maybe one more strand, but not the half dozen or so that were going on past episode 41. It will take a lot of work, and I need to have at least three volumes in solid shape before releasing anything. Plus, there were requests for spin-offs, especially when it came to the adventures of the all-female crew of the dirigible the Nervy Molls, and more built around the Fathomless Library. I’m so glad people connected to all of this, but it takes time and planning to make it all work, and I’m not sure I can do any of it this year.
Because I can’t drop the ball on the stage plays, either, and I have to get at least one-full length in shape for submission by the end of August, per a request. I can’t re-submit to this venue, so it needs to be something new.
I’d also love to get back to work on REP (the theatre company in space comedy) as a novel, but I can’t see fitting that in this year, either.
The most sales come from people who find me on Mastodon, with Instagram a close second. Bluesky is a distant third, with Tumblr and Threads trailing behind them. It took several years to build the audience on Mastodon and it’s a slower process than on other social media channels, but by posting/interacting regularly, marketing regularly, and taking part is games such as Writers Coffee Club, I’ve built connections there and am finding a growing audience. If all one does is post promos on a channel, sales don’t happen. There has to be interaction that has nothing to do with promotion, and that takes time and thought, which needs to be built into the workday.
I no longer promote on FB, and my sales have improved. TikTok was somewhat useful for serials, but hasn’t been for my books. I don’t do the kind of BookTok videos that work, nor am I willing to do them, and I’m not dealing with TikTok considering who owns it now.
Good to know.
I seriously would like to dump the FB accounts completely. Every time I open it, the first things that show up on my feed make me want to throw up. Blocking those accounts does nothing. For every block, 5 more of the gross things show up. The only reason I keep FB is because that’s how the city sends out information on emergencies. And birthday reminders, so I don’t miss anyone’s birthday (although I’m starting to add those to my paper datebook again).
The marketing that works (at the moment) is not brain surgery. It’s not spending a lot of money. It’s consistency.
It’s also looking at data over a period of months, and then tweaking one thing at a time, so you can see what kind of changes actually make a difference. I’m grateful to the Assets4Artists workshop and the local chamber workshop that gave me those tools to analyze this kind of data.
Now I have to figure out how to build on that, while continuing to have enough time and energy to keep feeding eager readers AND doing the more lucrative freelance writing work. I do that, knowing that I will have to look at the data every few months, and make changes. It’s not a career path on a highway, it’s more like floating down a river. Sometimes, there are rapids, and sometimes you get caught in the shallows.
The reason it takes me only 15 minutes a day is because I put in plenty of prep work. I have a content calendar for the month that I do about mid-month the previous month. (In other words, I better sit down and do April’s this week). It has the social media slots for each weekday, and what promo goes in each slot. I only promo one project per social media channel each day (except if I’ve dropped a day), so that I don’t saturate the channel and get annoying.
The only time I have the same ad on all channels on the same day is release day. Otherwise, I have them rotate through the channels: series ad, series video, single book ad for each book (one per day), single book video (ibid), and so forth. That way, it doesn’t come across as spam, even though content is repeated more than once in a month. Although I don’t do separate videos for each Topic Workbook. I have one for the group, and then flat ads for each book. For instance, February had a Nina Bell release (VICIOUS CRITIC), so all the promos in February were for various Nina Bell books. March has Nina, Topic workbooks, anthologies. April will include “Plot Bunnies” the short Twinkle Tavern mystery that happens near Easter, along with Nina, Workbooks, anthologies. And so forth.
As each book is going through the final production process, I work on the ad and the video. Or I edit/add to the series ad/video. That way, it’s all set up when it’s time to go. I’ve got the graphics, I’ve got the copy, I’ve got the links, I just follow the day’s schedule for the content calendar, and it takes 15 minutes to post through the channels. Each ad takes about an hour or so to create, but is designed to be evergreen and easily updatable if links or prices change. The videos take between 2-4 hours, depending how complicated they are. Longer, when the software I use updates claiming improvements that are actually detriments. As I explore new software, I might find something that helps me streamline that.
I treat myself like my own client. That was the biggest factor in making it work. It’s the same way I prepare materials for small business launches, and what I used to do for clients when I handled their social media promotions.
When I handled promos back in Twitter’s heyday, I could schedule an entire month’s worth of promos on Tweetdeck in about two hours. Under their current ownership and new name, I won’t deal with them. Hootsuite was useful to a point (not all the channels I need within my budget, but useful for some clients), but now they contract with the frozen water thugs, so I will not use them. Buffer doesn’t have enough of the channels I need within my budget.
Again, this is all about systems and information and tracking that then is used to support the creative work so the creative work can continue. It’s often difficult to face the reality of the business side of things, but it’s imperative if you want it to support the creative. They are the yin and yang of working in the arts.
Those who try to talk you out of paying attention to the business side of it are trying to exploit you and get your work for free, so watch out.
Back to the Life/Writing Stuff
On a completely different note, I did not get a slot in a 7-year residency for playwrighting. I knew it was a long shot, and they had 799 applicants. I had decided not to even apply, but then figured what the hell, nothing ventured and all that. But 7 years would mean I was in my early 70’s when we were done, and that’s not practical in my life right now. I’m glad I applied, and actually a little relieved I didn’t get it. Commuting to NYC at least once a month for 7 years would have been a lot, especially since they couldn’t guarantee the level of funding for the duration, just for the coming year. So why did I even apply? Because I felt there was possibility in the opportunity, and if I landed it, I was determined to find a way to make it work and grow in my playwrighting.
I am curious to see how many of the playwrights chosen actually stay in the residency program for the full seven years. I will follow along to keep track, and see how they blossom in the program (once they’re chosen).
Friday afternoon, I sorted out some practicalities with the ghostwriting client, and then go to work on the assignment due this Friday. I didn’t make as much progress as I hoped, but I have some ideas on how to fix that.
It started snowing around 3:30 or so. Sigh.
Got some research reading done for the May Morris project in the evening.
Didn’t sleep well Friday into Saturday. Up around the usual time, with Tessa shouting down the house because she wanted her breakfast. The morning routine was fine, although the 15-minute free write was more on the practical side than the creative side. But it sorted things out in my brain a bit, so it served its purpose.
It was supposed to snow from 9 AM – 1 PM, but started before 8.
After breakfast, I did some housework. I gesso’d my canvas for the collage. Tessa “helped” which means I now have to work a figure of a black cat into the collage to explain any cat hair I couldn’t wipe off. No, there isn’t any place in this house I can work where the cats can’t wander in.
Thankfully, Willa watched from a safe distance. Charlotte was asleep on the freshly made bed, and Bea was busy in the living room.
I got caught up doing more admin work than I hoped. I also re-read the first eight episodes I wrote of REP, and it’s funnier than I remembered, which is good. It plays a lot with tropes in theatre and science fiction.
I wrote myself into a corner on the latest chapter of BETTING MAN, and tried to get myself out of it, which was a chore. Not quite there yet.
I layered up and went out into the snow to pick up my mom’s prescription. They had two ready, which was nice. Usually, I go to pick up one, and the minute I get back home, there’s the notification for another one. Because making anything easier for their customers is beyond them. CVS = Corporate Vicious Hassle.
But there wasn’t hassle today, thank goodness. I stomped across town in the snow and into the wind, picked up the prescriptions, and picked up Chinese food on the way home. As I waited for my order, I read one of the local print publications, and there was an article by a colleague! I was so pleased for her, and it was very well done.
Trekked home, this time with the wind at my back, and we had an early lunch. It was yummy.
On the way back, as I trudged through the snow and wind, I had a breakthrough for something where I was stuck on the play CONSEQUENCE. It means going back and rewriting what I have of it so far, changing it a bit structurally, but still keeping it at three characters on stage. So that was good.
Then, I unpacked the 16 lb. bag of dry cat food and put it into smaller glass jars, which keeps it fresher and is easier to use. I set up the next couple of weeks’ worth of wet food on the shelf. I did some research. I finished reading the next book for review. It snowed on and off all afternoon, and there was a lot of wind. I started the spring cleaning, and got most of Tessa’s room done, although I still have to decide what I’m putting on the walls and how I’m hanging it. Cleaned all the lampshades, which always is more of a task than I remember.
Cooked dinner at night, read some more. Had busy dreams of working on various things all night with people I knew well in the dreamscape, but don’t recognize out of it. I felt like I put in a full day already when I woke up.
Good morning sessions of yoga and meditation. I figured out, in more detail, what to sort out in CONSEQUENCE during the morning free write, and also did some figuring out work on the sculpture.
After breakfast, I sat down and wrote a little over 1K on BETTING MAN, which was good. I’m still way behind where I hoped I’d be at this point, but I’m getting there. I wrote myself out of the corner, and had to remove a character from a previous chapter. But I made forward progress, which is important.
I did the Community Tarot Reading for the Week, which you can read here. I also wrote and submitted the book review, and scheduled the invoice to send on Monday morning.
I worked on some graphics that will be included on the sculpture, and started figuring out the text handout that will go with it.
I did research reading in afternoon and evening. I sort of kept an eye on the Oscars, but didn’t really watch them. I was, however, delighted with Autumn Durald Arkapaw’s win as the first woman to get an Oscar for cinematography. About damn time. I did some prep for Monday night’s Athena Project event (since my play was in it and all).
I did not sleep well, and was awake by 3 AM. When Tessa started complaining at 5, I just got up, without a fuss. Morning routine was fine. I like it when it’s early. It would be so easy to let the yoga or the meditation or the free write slide, but once you let it go for a day, it’s easy to keep letting it go, and the day is so much better when I don’t.
Again, consistency.
I knew Monday was going to be challenging because of all its moving parts.
By 8:30, I’d written a little over 1200 words on BETTING MAN.
I measured out the gesso’d canvas and started painting the background. The collage is satirical, so I’m using bold, bright colors, almost cartoonish. I had to mix the green with some white, to get it to the shade I wanted it, of “young child green grass.” Then I had to prop it and move chairs, etc. away from the kitchen table, so no curious cats would investigate it while it dried.
Bea also spent a good bit of time exploring my bedroom, and trying to figure out how to sneak on the bed without Charlotte noticing.
I received an invitation to join a playwrighting group about an hour and a half away (for a fee). I’d like to be involved with the group, but I am not an “aspiring” playwright. I’m a playwright, it’s part of my profession. I do not pay to work, I am paid to work. I sent a pleasant refusal.
Tried to catch up on some other email, and then switched over to the ghostwriting. I usually ghostwrite in the afternoon, but since my afternoon and evening were about playwrighting, on Monday, after I wrote my Nina quota and painted, I switched over to the ghostwriting. Since tomorrow, with the car repair, everything is a toss-up, I wanted to make sure I caught up yesterday and today, so I would be where I wanted, even if something goes cattywampus tomorrow.
I ran into an obstacle with the ghostwriting, and had to ask some questions, although I tried to work around them while I waited for an answer.
Honor Roll Playwrights session was on ZOOM for two hours, and that was good. We had a nice group. I rewrote/restructured what I have on CONSEQUENCE, and managed to move forward for a few pages. The restructuring didn’t add as much new material as I expected, which is good for pace, and I have a few ideas on raising the stakes.
After that session, I had a snack, then went back to the ghostwriting. They still didn’t answer my questions, which is unusual. So I will solider on in my own way. Whichever of the two roads I take will be the opposite of what they decide, and I will adjust as needed. I am behind where I hoped to be, and I don’t know how much I will get done tomorrow, with the car repair situation, so I will have to make up for it today and Thursday, in order to get it out on Friday on time.
We are having issues with a running toilet, so I had to make arrangements for maintenance to come this morning and take a look.
Cooked dinner and prepped for Athena Project. I gave the cats a snack right before the start of the session, so they settled down and napped, instead of crawling all over the computer and the screen.
It was a good session. Two of my friends who read earlier drafts of the play were there, and I appreciated it. It was a small group, but a good discussion, of both our plays. I appreciated that the readers loved the romance of the play as well as the more challenging elements, and they were all fascinated with the background.
Today, I will update the dramaturgy note at the back of the play to include thanks to Athena Project. It was great to work with the same dramaturg again, too. She really loves my work and gets the play.
It took me a bit of time to settle down and get to sleep. I woke up around 2:30 AM because of the rain. I managed to get to sleep again, and when I woke up a little after 5:30, it had changed over to snow. Sigh.
Today, I will send out thank you emails, update the Pages on Stages site with the play’s new information, deal with maintenance, try to get some work in on Nina, but the bulk of the day has to be about the ghostwriting.
This has been a really long post. Thanks for sticking with it! I hope you have a great day, and a great week.
#art #books #fiction #freelance #marketingStatistics #planning #playwrighting #reading #writing -
My 30-day digital detox was a really positive experience! 10/10, highly recommend.
The first week or so was pretty rough, especially because I basically had no proofreading jobs coming in (normal for early January). I found myself constantly picking up my phone and unlocking it, only to remember that there was nothing there for me to check or scroll.
But eventually I became less distracted, and I was super productive. I used a sheet protector to make myself a daily checklist/planner because I've found that I tend to thrive on routine. I figure if I do things consistently in the same order, I'm less likely to get distracted by screens.
- Applied for 3 jobs with nonprofit organizations, with one more in progress
- Finished reading FOURTEEN books
- Resumed journaling daily
- Practiced meditation
- Continued daily morning yoga and resumed doing some step aerobics
- Learned to tie 3 new knots
- Took some nice bubble baths
- Grew 4 batches of sprouts in a sprouting jar I got for Christmas
- Started up a weekly catch-up phone call with my brother
- Did some cleaning I'd been putting off
- Had a couple of friends over for a lovely dinner (build-your-own vegan poke bowls)Now I'm feeling so much better in general. Less anxiety and more hope. Really glad I did this!
#DigitalMinimalism #Declutter #DigitalDeclutter #DigitalDetox #SelfImprovement #Tech #Productivity
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Nurturing Yourself: The Benefits of Solitude
The Power of Solitude in Nurturing Ourselves
Photo by Taryn Elliott on Pexels.comIn an overwhelmingly busy world, solitude emerges as a sanctuary for self-care and rejuvenation. Embracing harmony through solitude allows us to step back from the chaos, offering a precious opportunity to reconnect with ourselves and our deepest needs. It is within these quiet moments that we can cultivate a profound sense of peace, enabling us to navigate the ebbs and flows of life, especially when faced with chronic conditions.
Solitude for balance
Solitude becomes a powerful tool, fostering introspection and self-discovery while serving as a nurturing space to replenish our energy and ignite our inner creativity. By recognizing the value of these solitary moments, we lay the foundations for a healthier and more balanced life, inviting a renewed sense of harmony to permeate our daily existence.
My Weekday Routine
My weekday mornings are a gift of solitude as my husband and I have our own unique way of awakening for the day ahead. This mutual respect routine is essential for our physical and mental well-being as we commute together and have worked together for over 20 years. So, my weekday self-care routine is a blend of simplicity and rejuvenation, infusing my day with positivity while effortlessly tackling the challenges of chronic hemiplegic migraines and lupus. Each migraine-free weekday, I rise at 5:15 am, embarking on a morning ritual that lays a gentle foundation for what lies ahead. This routine begins with oral hygiene and a revitalizing shower, followed by hydration with filtered water and a comforting cup of coffee. I embrace the nourishing solitude of the morning through peaceful meditation or prayer, allowing tranquility to wash over me, followed by a slow, mindful movement that keeps my body attuned to its needs. I cherish each moment spent with my beloved dog, who brings joy and warmth to my mornings, before stepping out the door by 6:35 am. This nurturing practice elevates my spirits and plays a critical role in managing my symptoms.
Sacred Space
I have made my routine as simple as possible by creating a tiny area deemed my sacred space, which serves as a daily reminder to engage in various practices that nourish my mind, body, and spirit. This personal sanctuary includes elements like a view of the outdoors, inspiring books, a statue of Buddha, and a few nature offerings such as feathers I have collected or crystals. By dedicating this space to my well-being, I find that it greatly aids my consistency, encouraging me to take moments for mindfulness and self-care daily. Each visit to my sacred space is a beautiful reminder of how blessed my life is, allowing me to reflect on my journey and express gratitude for the abundance around me. I have discovered that this intentional practice not only enhances my mental clarity but also deepens my connection to myself and the world, fostering a greater sense of peace and joy in my everyday life and allowing me to live peacefully with chronic illness.
What I have left behind
My morning routines shifted considerably after my health deteriorated. Managing symptoms such as pain and fatigue meant I could no longer do intense workouts in the morning, which had previously been a crucial part of my day. Instead, I adapted my exercise regimen to incorporate gentler activities like yoga and stretching, allowing me to maintain some physical fitness without overexerting myself. I also left behind unnecessary makeup and hair routines, opting instead for simpler styles that I can easily manage. This transition has saved me time each morning and encouraged me to embrace a more natural look, fostering greater self-acceptance. Furthermore, these changes have instilled a sense of mindfulness as I approach my days focusing on health and well-being rather than societal expectations.
Compassionate Self-Care
Incorporating simple practices into my current schedule allows me to enjoy self-care rituals that are vital for coping with my chronic conditions. Activities like meditation help to calm my mind and reduce the stress that can exacerbate migraines and lupus flare-ups. Whether starting the day with a few moments of mindfulness, taking a leisurely walk during my lunch break, or unwinding in the evening with a good book, these small practices bring balance and peace to my life. By prioritizing self-care, I can better manage the demands of daily life, especially when navigating the complexities of my health, and maintain a positive outlook. This commitment benefits my well-being and enables me to be more present and supportive of those around me.
Weekend Mornings
Photo by Ann poan on Pexels.comOn the weekends, I immerse myself in the bliss of extra sleep, soaking in the rejuvenating sensations that fuel my creativity. Saturday and Sunday mornings are sacred, dedicated to crafting captivating articles and essays for my website or pouring my heart and soul onto a canvas—creating the perfect backdrop for my ideas to blossom. These creative pursuits serve as a therapeutic escape, a delightful distraction from life’s pains and discomforts, allowing me to vividly express my thoughts and experiences.
Inner Reflection
These moments of solitude are a sanctuary for my mind, allowing it to settle and embrace the beautiful stillness. As thoughts of chronic pain gently fade away, I find myself whole, fully immersed in a state of creative bliss. Solitude emerges as a powerful catalyst for personal growth and self-care. By intentionally carving out time for ourselves, we open the door to reflection, recharging our spirits, and reconnecting with our deepest thoughts and feelings. In a fast-paced world that often values constant connectivity and busyness, cherishing these moments of solitude empowers us to cultivate profound inner harmony and nurture our overall well-being.
Maintaining Consistency
Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com on Pexels.comBeing consistent with self-care is a rewarding yet challenging journey, especially when navigating chronic conditions. Simplifying my routine helps, and having a dedicated space in my home for my practice is essential. This small area, whether for reflection, creativity, or prayer, becomes a gentle reminder to slow down and reconnect with myself. Embracing this space enriches my self-care experience and fosters a deeper sense of well-being.
Finding solitude paves the way for profound self-care by allowing us to center ourselves, re-energize, and foster a deeper connection with our inner being. This quiet time is essential for managing the fluctuations that come with chronic conditions. The beauty of being alone lies in the potential to restore our balance, rejuvenate our spirits, and ignite the flame of self-love within us. So, let’s cherish these moments of tranquility, as they are the cornerstone of our well-being.
Are you ready to embark on an inspiring journey to nurture your soul? Dive deep into the transformative Sacred Space Course, your ultimate guide to creating a self-care ritual that revitalizes your mind, body, and spirit. Embrace this opportunity to unlock your inner peace and elevate your well-being!
https://dandeliondoorways.com/course/creating-sacred-space/
A sacred space is lovingly regarded as a special area or environment that holds profound spiritual significance. It can take form as a physical location, such as a temple, church, shrine, or a serene natural site, or it might blossom within the comforting confines of a person’s home or mind. These sacred spaces are cherished for their role in embracing religious or spiritual practices, rituals, prayer, meditation, and moments of reflection. Many believe these places are filled with a unique energy or presence that helps individuals connect with the divine, find inner peace, and embark on journeys of personal transformation.
#anxietyRelief #awareness #balance #chronicIllness #chronicIllnessRoutine #chronicMigraine #endometriosos #experience #fibromyalgia #healing #lupus #meditation #mentalHealth #mentalWellbeing #mindful #mindfulness #moments #morningRoutine #practice #sacredSpace #selfCare #solitude #stressRelief
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Nurturing Yourself: The Benefits of Solitude
The Power of Solitude in Nurturing Ourselves
Photo by Taryn Elliott on Pexels.comIn an overwhelmingly busy world, solitude emerges as a sanctuary for self-care and rejuvenation. Embracing harmony through solitude allows us to step back from the chaos, offering a precious opportunity to reconnect with ourselves and our deepest needs. It is within these quiet moments that we can cultivate a profound sense of peace, enabling us to navigate the ebbs and flows of life, especially when faced with chronic conditions.
Solitude for balance
Solitude becomes a powerful tool, fostering introspection and self-discovery while serving as a nurturing space to replenish our energy and ignite our inner creativity. By recognizing the value of these solitary moments, we lay the foundations for a healthier and more balanced life, inviting a renewed sense of harmony to permeate our daily existence.
My Weekday Routine
My weekday mornings are a gift of solitude as my husband and I have our own unique way of awakening for the day ahead. This mutual respect routine is essential for our physical and mental well-being as we commute together and have worked together for over 20 years. So, my weekday self-care routine is a blend of simplicity and rejuvenation, infusing my day with positivity while effortlessly tackling the challenges of chronic hemiplegic migraines and lupus. Each migraine-free weekday, I rise at 5:15 am, embarking on a morning ritual that lays a gentle foundation for what lies ahead. This routine begins with oral hygiene and a revitalizing shower, followed by hydration with filtered water and a comforting cup of coffee. I embrace the nourishing solitude of the morning through peaceful meditation or prayer, allowing tranquility to wash over me, followed by a slow, mindful movement that keeps my body attuned to its needs. I cherish each moment spent with my beloved dog, who brings joy and warmth to my mornings, before stepping out the door by 6:35 am. This nurturing practice elevates my spirits and plays a critical role in managing my symptoms.
Sacred Space
I have made my routine as simple as possible by creating a tiny area deemed my sacred space, which serves as a daily reminder to engage in various practices that nourish my mind, body, and spirit. This personal sanctuary includes elements like a view of the outdoors, inspiring books, a statue of Buddha, and a few nature offerings such as feathers I have collected or crystals. By dedicating this space to my well-being, I find that it greatly aids my consistency, encouraging me to take moments for mindfulness and self-care daily. Each visit to my sacred space is a beautiful reminder of how blessed my life is, allowing me to reflect on my journey and express gratitude for the abundance around me. I have discovered that this intentional practice not only enhances my mental clarity but also deepens my connection to myself and the world, fostering a greater sense of peace and joy in my everyday life and allowing me to live peacefully with chronic illness.
What I have left behind
My morning routines shifted considerably after my health deteriorated. Managing symptoms such as pain and fatigue meant I could no longer do intense workouts in the morning, which had previously been a crucial part of my day. Instead, I adapted my exercise regimen to incorporate gentler activities like yoga and stretching, allowing me to maintain some physical fitness without overexerting myself. I also left behind unnecessary makeup and hair routines, opting instead for simpler styles that I can easily manage. This transition has saved me time each morning and encouraged me to embrace a more natural look, fostering greater self-acceptance. Furthermore, these changes have instilled a sense of mindfulness as I approach my days focusing on health and well-being rather than societal expectations.
Compassionate Self-Care
Incorporating simple practices into my current schedule allows me to enjoy self-care rituals that are vital for coping with my chronic conditions. Activities like meditation help to calm my mind and reduce the stress that can exacerbate migraines and lupus flare-ups. Whether starting the day with a few moments of mindfulness, taking a leisurely walk during my lunch break, or unwinding in the evening with a good book, these small practices bring balance and peace to my life. By prioritizing self-care, I can better manage the demands of daily life, especially when navigating the complexities of my health, and maintain a positive outlook. This commitment benefits my well-being and enables me to be more present and supportive of those around me.
Weekend Mornings
Photo by Ann poan on Pexels.comOn the weekends, I immerse myself in the bliss of extra sleep, soaking in the rejuvenating sensations that fuel my creativity. Saturday and Sunday mornings are sacred, dedicated to crafting captivating articles and essays for my website or pouring my heart and soul onto a canvas—creating the perfect backdrop for my ideas to blossom. These creative pursuits serve as a therapeutic escape, a delightful distraction from life’s pains and discomforts, allowing me to vividly express my thoughts and experiences.
Inner Reflection
These moments of solitude are a sanctuary for my mind, allowing it to settle and embrace the beautiful stillness. As thoughts of chronic pain gently fade away, I find myself whole, fully immersed in a state of creative bliss. Solitude emerges as a powerful catalyst for personal growth and self-care. By intentionally carving out time for ourselves, we open the door to reflection, recharging our spirits, and reconnecting with our deepest thoughts and feelings. In a fast-paced world that often values constant connectivity and busyness, cherishing these moments of solitude empowers us to cultivate profound inner harmony and nurture our overall well-being.
Maintaining Consistency
Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com on Pexels.comBeing consistent with self-care is a rewarding yet challenging journey, especially when navigating chronic conditions. Simplifying my routine helps, and having a dedicated space in my home for my practice is essential. This small area, whether for reflection, creativity, or prayer, becomes a gentle reminder to slow down and reconnect with myself. Embracing this space enriches my self-care experience and fosters a deeper sense of well-being.
Finding solitude paves the way for profound self-care by allowing us to center ourselves, re-energize, and foster a deeper connection with our inner being. This quiet time is essential for managing the fluctuations that come with chronic conditions. The beauty of being alone lies in the potential to restore our balance, rejuvenate our spirits, and ignite the flame of self-love within us. So, let’s cherish these moments of tranquility, as they are the cornerstone of our well-being.
Are you ready to embark on an inspiring journey to nurture your soul? Dive deep into the transformative Sacred Space Course, your ultimate guide to creating a self-care ritual that revitalizes your mind, body, and spirit. Embrace this opportunity to unlock your inner peace and elevate your well-being!
https://dandeliondoorways.com/course/creating-sacred-space/
A sacred space is lovingly regarded as a special area or environment that holds profound spiritual significance. It can take form as a physical location, such as a temple, church, shrine, or a serene natural site, or it might blossom within the comforting confines of a person’s home or mind. These sacred spaces are cherished for their role in embracing religious or spiritual practices, rituals, prayer, meditation, and moments of reflection. Many believe these places are filled with a unique energy or presence that helps individuals connect with the divine, find inner peace, and embark on journeys of personal transformation.
#anxietyRelief #awareness #balance #chronicIllness #chronicIllnessRoutine #chronicMigraine #endometriosos #experience #fibromyalgia #healing #lupus #meditation #mentalHealth #mentalWellbeing #mindful #mindfulness #moments #morningRoutine #practice #sacredSpace #selfCare #solitude #stressRelief
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Nurturing Yourself: The Benefits of Solitude
The Power of Solitude in Nurturing Ourselves
Photo by Taryn Elliott on Pexels.comIn an overwhelmingly busy world, solitude emerges as a sanctuary for self-care and rejuvenation. Embracing harmony through solitude allows us to step back from the chaos, offering a precious opportunity to reconnect with ourselves and our deepest needs. It is within these quiet moments that we can cultivate a profound sense of peace, enabling us to navigate the ebbs and flows of life, especially when faced with chronic conditions.
Solitude for balance
Solitude becomes a powerful tool, fostering introspection and self-discovery while serving as a nurturing space to replenish our energy and ignite our inner creativity. By recognizing the value of these solitary moments, we lay the foundations for a healthier and more balanced life, inviting a renewed sense of harmony to permeate our daily existence.
My Weekday Routine
My weekday mornings are a gift of solitude as my husband and I have our own unique way of awakening for the day ahead. This mutual respect routine is essential for our physical and mental well-being as we commute together and have worked together for over 20 years. So, my weekday self-care routine is a blend of simplicity and rejuvenation, infusing my day with positivity while effortlessly tackling the challenges of chronic hemiplegic migraines and lupus. Each migraine-free weekday, I rise at 5:15 am, embarking on a morning ritual that lays a gentle foundation for what lies ahead. This routine begins with oral hygiene and a revitalizing shower, followed by hydration with filtered water and a comforting cup of coffee. I embrace the nourishing solitude of the morning through peaceful meditation or prayer, allowing tranquility to wash over me, followed by a slow, mindful movement that keeps my body attuned to its needs. I cherish each moment spent with my beloved dog, who brings joy and warmth to my mornings, before stepping out the door by 6:35 am. This nurturing practice elevates my spirits and plays a critical role in managing my symptoms.
Sacred Space
I have made my routine as simple as possible by creating a tiny area deemed my sacred space, which serves as a daily reminder to engage in various practices that nourish my mind, body, and spirit. This personal sanctuary includes elements like a view of the outdoors, inspiring books, a statue of Buddha, and a few nature offerings such as feathers I have collected or crystals. By dedicating this space to my well-being, I find that it greatly aids my consistency, encouraging me to take moments for mindfulness and self-care daily. Each visit to my sacred space is a beautiful reminder of how blessed my life is, allowing me to reflect on my journey and express gratitude for the abundance around me. I have discovered that this intentional practice not only enhances my mental clarity but also deepens my connection to myself and the world, fostering a greater sense of peace and joy in my everyday life and allowing me to live peacefully with chronic illness.
What I have left behind
My morning routines shifted considerably after my health deteriorated. Managing symptoms such as pain and fatigue meant I could no longer do intense workouts in the morning, which had previously been a crucial part of my day. Instead, I adapted my exercise regimen to incorporate gentler activities like yoga and stretching, allowing me to maintain some physical fitness without overexerting myself. I also left behind unnecessary makeup and hair routines, opting instead for simpler styles that I can easily manage. This transition has saved me time each morning and encouraged me to embrace a more natural look, fostering greater self-acceptance. Furthermore, these changes have instilled a sense of mindfulness as I approach my days focusing on health and well-being rather than societal expectations.
Compassionate Self-Care
Incorporating simple practices into my current schedule allows me to enjoy self-care rituals that are vital for coping with my chronic conditions. Activities like meditation help to calm my mind and reduce the stress that can exacerbate migraines and lupus flare-ups. Whether starting the day with a few moments of mindfulness, taking a leisurely walk during my lunch break, or unwinding in the evening with a good book, these small practices bring balance and peace to my life. By prioritizing self-care, I can better manage the demands of daily life, especially when navigating the complexities of my health, and maintain a positive outlook. This commitment benefits my well-being and enables me to be more present and supportive of those around me.
Weekend Mornings
Photo by Ann poan on Pexels.comOn the weekends, I immerse myself in the bliss of extra sleep, soaking in the rejuvenating sensations that fuel my creativity. Saturday and Sunday mornings are sacred, dedicated to crafting captivating articles and essays for my website or pouring my heart and soul onto a canvas—creating the perfect backdrop for my ideas to blossom. These creative pursuits serve as a therapeutic escape, a delightful distraction from life’s pains and discomforts, allowing me to vividly express my thoughts and experiences.
Inner Reflection
These moments of solitude are a sanctuary for my mind, allowing it to settle and embrace the beautiful stillness. As thoughts of chronic pain gently fade away, I find myself whole, fully immersed in a state of creative bliss. Solitude emerges as a powerful catalyst for personal growth and self-care. By intentionally carving out time for ourselves, we open the door to reflection, recharging our spirits, and reconnecting with our deepest thoughts and feelings. In a fast-paced world that often values constant connectivity and busyness, cherishing these moments of solitude empowers us to cultivate profound inner harmony and nurture our overall well-being.
Maintaining Consistency
Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com on Pexels.comBeing consistent with self-care is a rewarding yet challenging journey, especially when navigating chronic conditions. Simplifying my routine helps, and having a dedicated space in my home for my practice is essential. This small area, whether for reflection, creativity, or prayer, becomes a gentle reminder to slow down and reconnect with myself. Embracing this space enriches my self-care experience and fosters a deeper sense of well-being.
Finding solitude paves the way for profound self-care by allowing us to center ourselves, re-energize, and foster a deeper connection with our inner being. This quiet time is essential for managing the fluctuations that come with chronic conditions. The beauty of being alone lies in the potential to restore our balance, rejuvenate our spirits, and ignite the flame of self-love within us. So, let’s cherish these moments of tranquility, as they are the cornerstone of our well-being.
Are you ready to embark on an inspiring journey to nurture your soul? Dive deep into the transformative Sacred Space Course, your ultimate guide to creating a self-care ritual that revitalizes your mind, body, and spirit. Embrace this opportunity to unlock your inner peace and elevate your well-being!
https://dandeliondoorways.com/course/creating-sacred-space/
A sacred space is lovingly regarded as a special area or environment that holds profound spiritual significance. It can take form as a physical location, such as a temple, church, shrine, or a serene natural site, or it might blossom within the comforting confines of a person’s home or mind. These sacred spaces are cherished for their role in embracing religious or spiritual practices, rituals, prayer, meditation, and moments of reflection. Many believe these places are filled with a unique energy or presence that helps individuals connect with the divine, find inner peace, and embark on journeys of personal transformation.
#anxietyRelief #awareness #balance #chronicIllness #chronicIllnessRoutine #chronicMigraine #endometriosos #experience #fibromyalgia #healing #lupus #meditation #mentalHealth #mentalWellbeing #mindful #mindfulness #moments #morningRoutine #practice #sacredSpace #selfCare #solitude #stressRelief
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Nurturing Yourself: The Benefits of Solitude
The Power of Solitude in Nurturing Ourselves
Photo by Taryn Elliott on Pexels.comIn an overwhelmingly busy world, solitude emerges as a sanctuary for self-care and rejuvenation. Embracing harmony through solitude allows us to step back from the chaos, offering a precious opportunity to reconnect with ourselves and our deepest needs. It is within these quiet moments that we can cultivate a profound sense of peace, enabling us to navigate the ebbs and flows of life, especially when faced with chronic conditions.
Solitude for balance
Solitude becomes a powerful tool, fostering introspection and self-discovery while serving as a nurturing space to replenish our energy and ignite our inner creativity. By recognizing the value of these solitary moments, we lay the foundations for a healthier and more balanced life, inviting a renewed sense of harmony to permeate our daily existence.
My Weekday Routine
My weekday mornings are a gift of solitude as my husband and I have our own unique way of awakening for the day ahead. This mutual respect routine is essential for our physical and mental well-being as we commute together and have worked together for over 20 years. So, my weekday self-care routine is a blend of simplicity and rejuvenation, infusing my day with positivity while effortlessly tackling the challenges of chronic hemiplegic migraines and lupus. Each migraine-free weekday, I rise at 5:15 am, embarking on a morning ritual that lays a gentle foundation for what lies ahead. This routine begins with oral hygiene and a revitalizing shower, followed by hydration with filtered water and a comforting cup of coffee. I embrace the nourishing solitude of the morning through peaceful meditation or prayer, allowing tranquility to wash over me, followed by a slow, mindful movement that keeps my body attuned to its needs. I cherish each moment spent with my beloved dog, who brings joy and warmth to my mornings, before stepping out the door by 6:35 am. This nurturing practice elevates my spirits and plays a critical role in managing my symptoms.
Sacred Space
I have made my routine as simple as possible by creating a tiny area deemed my sacred space, which serves as a daily reminder to engage in various practices that nourish my mind, body, and spirit. This personal sanctuary includes elements like a view of the outdoors, inspiring books, a statue of Buddha, and a few nature offerings such as feathers I have collected or crystals. By dedicating this space to my well-being, I find that it greatly aids my consistency, encouraging me to take moments for mindfulness and self-care daily. Each visit to my sacred space is a beautiful reminder of how blessed my life is, allowing me to reflect on my journey and express gratitude for the abundance around me. I have discovered that this intentional practice not only enhances my mental clarity but also deepens my connection to myself and the world, fostering a greater sense of peace and joy in my everyday life and allowing me to live peacefully with chronic illness.
What I have left behind
My morning routines shifted considerably after my health deteriorated. Managing symptoms such as pain and fatigue meant I could no longer do intense workouts in the morning, which had previously been a crucial part of my day. Instead, I adapted my exercise regimen to incorporate gentler activities like yoga and stretching, allowing me to maintain some physical fitness without overexerting myself. I also left behind unnecessary makeup and hair routines, opting instead for simpler styles that I can easily manage. This transition has saved me time each morning and encouraged me to embrace a more natural look, fostering greater self-acceptance. Furthermore, these changes have instilled a sense of mindfulness as I approach my days focusing on health and well-being rather than societal expectations.
Compassionate Self-Care
Incorporating simple practices into my current schedule allows me to enjoy self-care rituals that are vital for coping with my chronic conditions. Activities like meditation help to calm my mind and reduce the stress that can exacerbate migraines and lupus flare-ups. Whether starting the day with a few moments of mindfulness, taking a leisurely walk during my lunch break, or unwinding in the evening with a good book, these small practices bring balance and peace to my life. By prioritizing self-care, I can better manage the demands of daily life, especially when navigating the complexities of my health, and maintain a positive outlook. This commitment benefits my well-being and enables me to be more present and supportive of those around me.
Weekend Mornings
Photo by Ann poan on Pexels.comOn the weekends, I immerse myself in the bliss of extra sleep, soaking in the rejuvenating sensations that fuel my creativity. Saturday and Sunday mornings are sacred, dedicated to crafting captivating articles and essays for my website or pouring my heart and soul onto a canvas—creating the perfect backdrop for my ideas to blossom. These creative pursuits serve as a therapeutic escape, a delightful distraction from life’s pains and discomforts, allowing me to vividly express my thoughts and experiences.
Inner Reflection
These moments of solitude are a sanctuary for my mind, allowing it to settle and embrace the beautiful stillness. As thoughts of chronic pain gently fade away, I find myself whole, fully immersed in a state of creative bliss. Solitude emerges as a powerful catalyst for personal growth and self-care. By intentionally carving out time for ourselves, we open the door to reflection, recharging our spirits, and reconnecting with our deepest thoughts and feelings. In a fast-paced world that often values constant connectivity and busyness, cherishing these moments of solitude empowers us to cultivate profound inner harmony and nurture our overall well-being.
Maintaining Consistency
Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com on Pexels.comBeing consistent with self-care is a rewarding yet challenging journey, especially when navigating chronic conditions. Simplifying my routine helps, and having a dedicated space in my home for my practice is essential. This small area, whether for reflection, creativity, or prayer, becomes a gentle reminder to slow down and reconnect with myself. Embracing this space enriches my self-care experience and fosters a deeper sense of well-being.
Finding solitude paves the way for profound self-care by allowing us to center ourselves, re-energize, and foster a deeper connection with our inner being. This quiet time is essential for managing the fluctuations that come with chronic conditions. The beauty of being alone lies in the potential to restore our balance, rejuvenate our spirits, and ignite the flame of self-love within us. So, let’s cherish these moments of tranquility, as they are the cornerstone of our well-being.
Are you ready to embark on an inspiring journey to nurture your soul? Dive deep into the transformative Sacred Space Course, your ultimate guide to creating a self-care ritual that revitalizes your mind, body, and spirit. Embrace this opportunity to unlock your inner peace and elevate your well-being!
https://dandeliondoorways.com/course/creating-sacred-space/
A sacred space is lovingly regarded as a special area or environment that holds profound spiritual significance. It can take form as a physical location, such as a temple, church, shrine, or a serene natural site, or it might blossom within the comforting confines of a person’s home or mind. These sacred spaces are cherished for their role in embracing religious or spiritual practices, rituals, prayer, meditation, and moments of reflection. Many believe these places are filled with a unique energy or presence that helps individuals connect with the divine, find inner peace, and embark on journeys of personal transformation.
#anxietyRelief #awareness #balance #chronicIllness #chronicIllnessRoutine #chronicMigraine #endometriosos #experience #fibromyalgia #healing #lupus #meditation #mentalHealth #mentalWellbeing #mindful #mindfulness #moments #morningRoutine #practice #sacredSpace #selfCare #solitude #stressRelief
-
Nurturing Yourself: The Benefits of Solitude
The Power of Solitude in Nurturing Ourselves
Photo by Taryn Elliott on Pexels.comIn an overwhelmingly busy world, solitude emerges as a sanctuary for self-care and rejuvenation. Embracing harmony through solitude allows us to step back from the chaos, offering a precious opportunity to reconnect with ourselves and our deepest needs. It is within these quiet moments that we can cultivate a profound sense of peace, enabling us to navigate the ebbs and flows of life, especially when faced with chronic conditions.
Solitude for balance
Solitude becomes a powerful tool, fostering introspection and self-discovery while serving as a nurturing space to replenish our energy and ignite our inner creativity. By recognizing the value of these solitary moments, we lay the foundations for a healthier and more balanced life, inviting a renewed sense of harmony to permeate our daily existence.
My Weekday Routine
My weekday mornings are a gift of solitude as my husband and I have our own unique way of awakening for the day ahead. This mutual respect routine is essential for our physical and mental well-being as we commute together and have worked together for over 20 years. So, my weekday self-care routine is a blend of simplicity and rejuvenation, infusing my day with positivity while effortlessly tackling the challenges of chronic hemiplegic migraines and lupus. Each migraine-free weekday, I rise at 5:15 am, embarking on a morning ritual that lays a gentle foundation for what lies ahead. This routine begins with oral hygiene and a revitalizing shower, followed by hydration with filtered water and a comforting cup of coffee. I embrace the nourishing solitude of the morning through peaceful meditation or prayer, allowing tranquility to wash over me, followed by a slow, mindful movement that keeps my body attuned to its needs. I cherish each moment spent with my beloved dog, who brings joy and warmth to my mornings, before stepping out the door by 6:35 am. This nurturing practice elevates my spirits and plays a critical role in managing my symptoms.
Sacred Space
I have made my routine as simple as possible by creating a tiny area deemed my sacred space, which serves as a daily reminder to engage in various practices that nourish my mind, body, and spirit. This personal sanctuary includes elements like a view of the outdoors, inspiring books, a statue of Buddha, and a few nature offerings such as feathers I have collected or crystals. By dedicating this space to my well-being, I find that it greatly aids my consistency, encouraging me to take moments for mindfulness and self-care daily. Each visit to my sacred space is a beautiful reminder of how blessed my life is, allowing me to reflect on my journey and express gratitude for the abundance around me. I have discovered that this intentional practice not only enhances my mental clarity but also deepens my connection to myself and the world, fostering a greater sense of peace and joy in my everyday life and allowing me to live peacefully with chronic illness.
What I have left behind
My morning routines shifted considerably after my health deteriorated. Managing symptoms such as pain and fatigue meant I could no longer do intense workouts in the morning, which had previously been a crucial part of my day. Instead, I adapted my exercise regimen to incorporate gentler activities like yoga and stretching, allowing me to maintain some physical fitness without overexerting myself. I also left behind unnecessary makeup and hair routines, opting instead for simpler styles that I can easily manage. This transition has saved me time each morning and encouraged me to embrace a more natural look, fostering greater self-acceptance. Furthermore, these changes have instilled a sense of mindfulness as I approach my days focusing on health and well-being rather than societal expectations.
Compassionate Self-Care
Incorporating simple practices into my current schedule allows me to enjoy self-care rituals that are vital for coping with my chronic conditions. Activities like meditation help to calm my mind and reduce the stress that can exacerbate migraines and lupus flare-ups. Whether starting the day with a few moments of mindfulness, taking a leisurely walk during my lunch break, or unwinding in the evening with a good book, these small practices bring balance and peace to my life. By prioritizing self-care, I can better manage the demands of daily life, especially when navigating the complexities of my health, and maintain a positive outlook. This commitment benefits my well-being and enables me to be more present and supportive of those around me.
Weekend Mornings
Photo by Ann poan on Pexels.comOn the weekends, I immerse myself in the bliss of extra sleep, soaking in the rejuvenating sensations that fuel my creativity. Saturday and Sunday mornings are sacred, dedicated to crafting captivating articles and essays for my website or pouring my heart and soul onto a canvas—creating the perfect backdrop for my ideas to blossom. These creative pursuits serve as a therapeutic escape, a delightful distraction from life’s pains and discomforts, allowing me to vividly express my thoughts and experiences.
Inner Reflection
These moments of solitude are a sanctuary for my mind, allowing it to settle and embrace the beautiful stillness. As thoughts of chronic pain gently fade away, I find myself whole, fully immersed in a state of creative bliss. Solitude emerges as a powerful catalyst for personal growth and self-care. By intentionally carving out time for ourselves, we open the door to reflection, recharging our spirits, and reconnecting with our deepest thoughts and feelings. In a fast-paced world that often values constant connectivity and busyness, cherishing these moments of solitude empowers us to cultivate profound inner harmony and nurture our overall well-being.
Maintaining Consistency
Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com on Pexels.comBeing consistent with self-care is a rewarding yet challenging journey, especially when navigating chronic conditions. Simplifying my routine helps, and having a dedicated space in my home for my practice is essential. This small area, whether for reflection, creativity, or prayer, becomes a gentle reminder to slow down and reconnect with myself. Embracing this space enriches my self-care experience and fosters a deeper sense of well-being.
Finding solitude paves the way for profound self-care by allowing us to center ourselves, re-energize, and foster a deeper connection with our inner being. This quiet time is essential for managing the fluctuations that come with chronic conditions. The beauty of being alone lies in the potential to restore our balance, rejuvenate our spirits, and ignite the flame of self-love within us. So, let’s cherish these moments of tranquility, as they are the cornerstone of our well-being.
Are you ready to embark on an inspiring journey to nurture your soul? Dive deep into the transformative Sacred Space Course, your ultimate guide to creating a self-care ritual that revitalizes your mind, body, and spirit. Embrace this opportunity to unlock your inner peace and elevate your well-being!
https://dandeliondoorways.com/course/creating-sacred-space/
A sacred space is lovingly regarded as a special area or environment that holds profound spiritual significance. It can take form as a physical location, such as a temple, church, shrine, or a serene natural site, or it might blossom within the comforting confines of a person’s home or mind. These sacred spaces are cherished for their role in embracing religious or spiritual practices, rituals, prayer, meditation, and moments of reflection. Many believe these places are filled with a unique energy or presence that helps individuals connect with the divine, find inner peace, and embark on journeys of personal transformation.
#anxietyRelief #awareness #balance #chronicIllness #chronicIllnessRoutine #chronicMigraine #endometriosos #experience #fibromyalgia #healing #lupus #meditation #mentalHealth #mentalWellbeing #mindful #mindfulness #moments #morningRoutine #practice #sacredSpace #selfCare #solitude #stressRelief
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Tues. Dec. 30, 2025: In That Liminal Space
image courtesy of Mike Dubyna via pixabay.comTuesday, December 30, 2025
Waxing Moon
Chiron, Uranus, Jupiter Retrograde
Cloudy and very cold
Welcome to a new week and, in a couple of days, a new year!
The Community Tarot Reading for the Week is up here. It’s our last week using the Yuletide Tarot. Next week, we switch decks.
If you haven’t had a chance to look over the 2026 questions on the Goals, Dreams, and Resolutions site, you can do so here.
Over the past few weeks, I decided on a title for Nina Bell #6, which will be a collection of novellas covering a specific span of time. None of what happens in that span is enough to sustain an entire book, but it’s all important for her character arc (and those of some other core characters). So I decided to do five shorter pieces, ending in one that will be longer and somewhat disturbing, but is an important catalyst for future arcs. The title is MURDEROUS INTERLUDES, at least at the moment, and the cover designer showed me some roughs.
Nina #3 is VICIOUS CRITIC, Nina #4 is BUT IS SHE A BETTING MAN? (set in Saratoga Springs, during racing season), and Nina #5 is STAGE FALL, set off-Broadway that following fall. MURDEROUS INTERLUDES takes us through that next holiday season into the spring.
That will keep me busy for the foreseeable future!
I mean, if the sales don’t sustain, that changes everything, but sales for the first two books continue to grow. I can’t retire on them or anything, but right now they are sustainable. I hope that VICIOUS CRITIC will build on that, so I can keep writing this series. The Topic Workbooks are holding steady, and I’ll know how the holiday shorts did by early February. The last couple of months, when I’ve been consistent in the marketing, I’ve noticed the difference.
Consistency, be it in the writing or the marketing, is key. I mean, I know that, but I dropped the ball on a few things the last years, for many different reasons (like illness and moving and life chaos and elder care). I need to get back on track in a way that is sustainable balanced with other freelance work and energy levels.
I find that consistency in the morning yoga, meditation, and early morning writing practices help a lot in the actual workday. There are definitely days I consider skipping one or more elements of that, but I’m always glad when I don’t.
I will also explore some other marketing possibilities this coming year, and additional distribution outlets. I’m developing my own marketing style, that has very little to do with what the “experts” claim works. It takes longer, because it’s gentler and more personal, but I think it works better for what I do in the long run.
Someone whose posts I often enjoyed on Instagram boasted about asking ChatGPT to “read her astrological chart” so I unfollowed. Nope. Don’t pretend that AI/ChatGPT has a spiritual connection or ethical spiritual usage. It’s theft and harm on multiple levels. Don’t pretend you care about consent, art, spirituality, or the environment if you use it. I will unfollow, block if necessary, disengage. I’ve distanced myself from several people I know in real life who use it, and will continue to do so.
Got out of the house and to the grocery store. Did a small shop, but still spent more than I hoped (just like everyone else dealing with grocery prices). My fishmonger refused to sell me trout on Friday, saying it wasn’t fresh enough anymore, and she was about to pull it from the case. I got flounder instead, and she promised to have a nice cut of salmon for me on New Year’s Eve, when I’ll pick up the salmon we need for that night’s meal.
As I said last week, always make friends with your fishmonger!
We don’t need much until the big meals around New Year’s – we’ll be eating leftovers in the liminal week. I got duck breast for the Day. There weren’t any whole ducks (and I doubt they’d have been in my budget if there had been – I lucked out last year to find one on deep discount). We won’t have a lot of leftovers with this (we might not have any), but it will still be “duck on the Day” which is a tradition I like, when I can pull it off. This duck breast was at the top of my budget for the meal, but still within it, and was the last thing I need for the Day’s meal, except maybe another orange for the sauce, so we’re all good.
I was kind of shocked that they were selling a bony goose carcass for $107, post-Christmas. Um?
I know goose is more expensive than other poultry, but that seems rather. . .absurd.
Besides, the Coq au Vin was delightful and we have leftovers. So many leftovers, some went into the freezer.
On a whim, on the way home, I stopped at a thrift store I regularly visit. There was a silver-looking teapot with a gorgeous, ornate fruit top, for less than $3. Handling it, I think it’s more likely to be pewter than silver, but it’s pretty. I also a good quality 10” pan with a lid in perfect shape (for less than $5) to replace a pan of ours that has lived its life and needs to retire. The tired pan was bought around 2000, I think, at Lechter’s or something. It’s done its job. We have an older 10” pan, copper-bottomed, from the 1960’s that’s still in great shape (when they made things to last) and we use all the time, but we often need two pans of that size going at once.
Would I love to live in a place big enough for a six-burner stove? Why, yes, I would, but I manage with four. A double oven would also make my life easier, but we make do.
I couldn’t stand the thought of boxed mac and cheese (even the organic ones I sometimes buy for lunch options), so I found an easy sauce recipe, cut it in half, and made myself simplified mac and cheese for lunch, by cooking some elbow pasta, making a small portion of the sauce, and tossing in some pancetta. I will make a big pan of Moosewood mac and cheese at some point in January, but that was too much for me to do for lunch. This recipe was okay, but not brilliant. If I make it again, I will tweak it with some herbs and spices. It was still better than boxed, though.
I have no memory of what I did after lunch. Puttered, maybe? Read a little? Played with cats? Caught up on Instagram with friends? Not a darned clue. I remember, at one point, Tessa was in one wingback chair sleeping, my mom was in her chair reading, I was on the sofa reading, with Charlotte on my lap and Bea on the back of the sofa. The only one missing was Willa, who was asleep on my mother’s bed.
I was glad to get things done early, since the storm warnings intensified to the point where shops and restaurants started closing in the afternoon, to make sure their people could get home. Which is a great choice.
I made the parsnip and pear puree from SILVER PALATE GOOD TIMES Cookbook. I was both intrigued and worried about it. I like parsnips, I like pears, but how could they possibly come together? It was either going to be good or awful.
There was peeling and chopping involved, of course. The parsnips cooked in one pot, while I simmered the pears in butter and brandy in another. Once I drained the cooked parsnips, they went back in the pan with the pear mush (it had cooked down to mush) and added salt, pepper, and allspice. It cooled a bit while I steamed the peas and breaded the flounder to cook.
While the flounder was doing its thing (in the new pan, which works very well), I put the parsnip and pear mixture into the food processor with sour cream, processed it, and then returned it to the pan to warm through.
Throughout the whole process, I could not figure out what it would taste like. Even tasting bits as it cooked, I couldn’t prepare my brain for what my mouth would experience.
Fortunately, it’s good. Strange, but good. The fish was a little delicate with it. I think it needs something more robust. The bison would have been a good pairing with it. We have a lot left over, and I wonder what it will taste like cold (it could be used as a spread). I could imagine it on a toasted roll with cold, sliced leftover bison. Only we ate all the bison. But the butcher carries it regularly, and the price isn’t bad, relatively, in relation to a lot of other stuff. It’s certainly at a better price than the goose! So we will see.
I bought a different brand of flavored bread crumb, and regretted it. The flavoring was off, and the consistency of the crumbs was like gravel. That’ll teach me. I’ll go back to my preferred brand when I use these up. Until then, I will have to toss them in the food processor with some fresh herbs whenever I want to use them. So that I can use them up, because I can’t justify just tossing them.
I started reading THE MOTHER TONGUE by Bill Bryson in the evening, about the evolution of the English language. It’s very interesting, and made me realize how much I didn’t know. It’s a little too dry for me right now, so I switched over to WORDHORD by Hanna Videen, which is very lively. And she has an Instagram account, which is fun. Speaking of IG, if you’re not following Medievalist Matt, I highly recommend that account. I learn a lot, and it’s also hilarious. It was snowing quite hard by the time I went to bed, and very pretty.
Slept okay. Woke up around 1 AM after a disturbing dream (sigh, February will be a challenge), because my bad hip hurt. Rolled it out on a tennis ball, the way my acupuncturist taught me way back when, until it stopped grumbling and I could sleep again.
Up at the usual time. Morning routine. Quite a bit of snow, everything muffled and quiet, which was a lovely way to spend morning yoga and meditation. By the time I wrote, the plows were out.
I put in a Chewy order for both wet and dry food. Those little monsters eat a lot, especially in winter. We are still okay for a couple of weeks, but I prefer to have the food here, ready to go, especially with storms coming through regularly. The delivery last week was for the special wet food Willa and Bea get on Sundays.
I did the backing, filling, and quilting on “Vast.” I’m still worried it looks like a giant potholder, and considered pulling it from the show. But I worked the text portion of the piece, and (for once) I’m happy with a poem I wrote. I worked it enough in my head over the weeks, forming it as I formed the textile piece, that the text is where I want it, even if I am unsure about the textile. And hey, with over forty artists in the show, my little piece won’t be noticed!
It’s more abstract that I originally envisioned, but the text supports the changes. I considered adding embellishments to hide the flaws, but I think the simpler I keep it, the better. It won’t be for sale. The whole reason I’m part of the gallery this year is to push myself to experiment, and put those experiments out there.
I found a pattern for inseam pockets that I downloaded and printed out. I usually don’t use PDF patterns, it’s too much of a pain to print them properly. But a pocket is small enough to print, even a decent-sized pocket. And anything I sew in the future with side seams will get an inseam pocket, if at all possible.
The sewing machine was giving me fits. I need to find a place to get it serviced. I’m planning far too much sewing in the coming months to have to deal with what’s going on with it. And yes, it’s not the right machine to use for heavy, quilting work. It’s meant for clothing, even though it’s called a “huskystar.” I’ll ask the Studios where they get their machines serviced, and maybe over at SavvyHive, since they are now doing mending and alterations. I don’t mind hiking over to Bennington or Pittsfield, but I don’t want to go all the way over to Troy or Albany.
The psychological distance to Albany is much greater than the actual, physical distance. Once I have my new tires, I’ll probably feel more comfortable with longer drives.
I got some reading done later in the day, and dealt with some extended family stuff around an unsolved murder from nearly 40 years ago. I found some articles and some information I’d suspected, but didn’t know, and that a family member has tried to get the case some attention in the last few years. The whole situation just makes me so sad.
I dug the back of the car out and set down some sand. I left the snow on the windows and roof to protect the car.
Heated up some Coq Au Vin leftovers, which were really good, and read more at night. Because, you know, this time of year is for reading. (In this house, every time of year is for reading).
Slept reasonably well, although I woke up at 2 AM after a disturbing dream that makes me want to skip March (the dream for that night is tied to March). I fell back asleep, and then didn’t want to get up when Tessa woke me a few hours later. I did, however, have a breakthrough in “Body Games” that fixes where I got stuck. It was as though I had to finish “Vast” before I could breakthrough in “Body Games” (the historical mystery).
I finally got up, did the morning routine, did the Community Tarot Reading for the Week. As I was sorting through files in preparation to get back to “Body Games” I came across a garbled early draft of STAGE FALL. It’s garbled not just because it’s a first draft, but because it was from a different type of file and didn’t properly convert.
STAGE FALL was originally going to be the second Nina Bell mystery. It’s now the fifth, which means a lot has to change as far as arcs that have been established and growing in the interim. The bones of it are there. The show against which it is set was, again, at a theatre inspired by the Orpheum, as was the theatre in VICIOUS. I have to decide if I want to keep it there, or move it to someplace inspired by the Variety Arts, or a different theatre than the one in VICIOUS. It would make sense to work a different show at the same theatre, but maybe I should move it to a different theatre. I do, however, have to plant something in BETTING that I can pull through in STAGE FALL and beyond, or it won’t make sense. I want Nina to start working as a swing dresser on Broadway after the summer theatre/Edinburgh books after MURDEROUS INTERLUDES, so it makes sense to have STAGE FALL be at a different theatre than VICIOUS, still off-Broadway, to give a richer sense of the different theatres.
Finished “Body Games” and several revision/editing passes. It’s finally where I want it. I was just about ready to give up on it.
Stitched and attached the hanging loop and ribbon for “Vast.” Fixed the last two lines of the text portion, printed it out (in Calibri), and put that aside, ready to go. The Chewy order arrived, which was unexpected, so quickly. Cats should have full bellies until the end of February.
Read a bit, heated up the pork leftovers, which were very good. Heated up some parsnip-and-pear puree, and I was right, it’s better with a denser protein for balance.
A friend gave us a box of rose and violet creams. There are a set of rose creams, and a set of violet creams. These are to eat, encased in chocolate, not cream like you put on your body. They’re beautifully wrapped in rose and violet foils, too. It’s such an interesting sensation to taste something one is used to smelling. Smell and taste are closely connected. Often, when I smell a rose, there’s also a hint of a taste. Eating a rose cream, the taste hits first, and much more of it, and then there’s a hint of scent. And the taste of the violet is much stronger than the scent, unless you have a big bunch of them. They’re really good, but very different from a typical edible treat.
Between the floral cream candies and the parsnip-and-pear, it’s been a very sensory holiday, which is lovely.
Slept well, although I woke up around 3:30 from a nice dream about cooking and cookware. So I guess April is all about cooking.
I finally got up, a little after 5, much to Tessa’s glee. I had the whole morning routine done by just past 7 AM, and was at my desk. I figured out some layering I want to do in a scene of “Body Games” before I sent it off.
It was bucketing down with rain, so I decided to wait until late morning to do my errands, which were only a library run and dropping “Vast” off at the gallery.
I did some tweaks, tightening, and layering on “Body Games” and a proofreading pass, and off it went. I doubt there’s much set in this time period (I don’t think I’ve ever read a mystery set during the era, although I’ve heard of CHOCOLATE HOUSE TREASON). I hope the balance of period detail without overexplaining, character arcs, and mystery is interesting enough for them to want it.
I also got out a play submission.
In this liminal time, I’ve intentionally tried to keep away from That Thing’s putrid existence as much as possible. I’m aware of the escalating issues, but I’m giving myself a necessary break.
By late morning, it was still bucketing down. I suited up, brushed the last of the wet snow off the car’s windshield, and headed out. I did a drop-off/pick up at the library, and also checked out some large print books for my mom, who’d run out. I have a few things in transit, so we’ll see when they come in.
Then, I headed down to the gallery. Much to my delight, my friend Jane was there at the same time for her drop-off, along with a new member we will get to know over the course of the year. We got in, filled out our forms, and lined up our pieces neatly. We are all worried about how this rain would freeze overnight, and it’s supposed to snow, on and off, until New Year’s Day. We may have to skate back for the opening on Friday. The weekend after my workshop, Jane is offering tarot readings, so I offered to be a back-up person and help wrangle querants, so she can focus on the readings. She doesn’t think there will be many people; I do. And if there’s a lull, we can chat and catch up!
Good thing I hadn’t gone out to the laundromat Monday morning – they’re digging up the street in front of it again, which means I couldn’t go this morning, either. I don’t like going into the New Year with dirty laundry, but this year, I will have to get over myself. We have enough clean everythings to start the new year fresh.
Soup for lunch on a dreary day, and a quiet afternoon of ghostwriting, reading, research, working on the GDR questions.
Heated up leftover pasta for dinner. Charlotte was delighted to get some freshly grated pasta.
The first box of books for the contest arrived. Usually, it’s a huge box. This batch is tiny, with only a few novellas. The bulk of the books are digital this year. I will get started on this batch, both print and digital, next week.
The rain had changed over to snow, and it was snowing steadily by the time I went to bed. It was harsh and cold when I woke up this morning. Morning routine was good, especially the writing session. I don’t remember what I dreamed, but I woke up feeling pretty decent and calm, so I hope that sets a good tone for May.
On today’s agenda: write the opening for BETTING MAN, pop it into the end of VICIOUS, and send it off to my editor. Then, I work on the outline for BETTING MAN before I switch over to the ghostwriting, which I will do until I leave for yoga.
At some point, I will also finish the next book for review. I’d like to get that written and out tomorrow.
Have a good one – we are almost at year’s end! Hang in there.
#3 #4 #5 #6 #art #cooking #freelance #liminalSpaceBetweenYears #NinaBellMysteries #planning #shortStories
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Tues. Dec. 30, 2025: In That Liminal Space
image courtesy of Mike Dubyna via pixabay.comTuesday, December 30, 2025
Waxing Moon
Chiron, Uranus, Jupiter Retrograde
Cloudy and very cold
Welcome to a new week and, in a couple of days, a new year!
The Community Tarot Reading for the Week is up here. It’s our last week using the Yuletide Tarot. Next week, we switch decks.
If you haven’t had a chance to look over the 2026 questions on the Goals, Dreams, and Resolutions site, you can do so here.
Over the past few weeks, I decided on a title for Nina Bell #6, which will be a collection of novellas covering a specific span of time. None of what happens in that span is enough to sustain an entire book, but it’s all important for her character arc (and those of some other core characters). So I decided to do five shorter pieces, ending in one that will be longer and somewhat disturbing, but is an important catalyst for future arcs. The title is MURDEROUS INTERLUDES, at least at the moment, and the cover designer showed me some roughs.
Nina #3 is VICIOUS CRITIC, Nina #4 is BUT IS SHE A BETTING MAN? (set in Saratoga Springs, during racing season), and Nina #5 is STAGE FALL, set off-Broadway that following fall. MURDEROUS INTERLUDES takes us through that next holiday season into the spring.
That will keep me busy for the foreseeable future!
I mean, if the sales don’t sustain, that changes everything, but sales for the first two books continue to grow. I can’t retire on them or anything, but right now they are sustainable. I hope that VICIOUS CRITIC will build on that, so I can keep writing this series. The Topic Workbooks are holding steady, and I’ll know how the holiday shorts did by early February. The last couple of months, when I’ve been consistent in the marketing, I’ve noticed the difference.
Consistency, be it in the writing or the marketing, is key. I mean, I know that, but I dropped the ball on a few things the last years, for many different reasons (like illness and moving and life chaos and elder care). I need to get back on track in a way that is sustainable balanced with other freelance work and energy levels.
I find that consistency in the morning yoga, meditation, and early morning writing practices help a lot in the actual workday. There are definitely days I consider skipping one or more elements of that, but I’m always glad when I don’t.
I will also explore some other marketing possibilities this coming year, and additional distribution outlets. I’m developing my own marketing style, that has very little to do with what the “experts” claim works. It takes longer, because it’s gentler and more personal, but I think it works better for what I do in the long run.
Someone whose posts I often enjoyed on Instagram boasted about asking ChatGPT to “read her astrological chart” so I unfollowed. Nope. Don’t pretend that AI/ChatGPT has a spiritual connection or ethical spiritual usage. It’s theft and harm on multiple levels. Don’t pretend you care about consent, art, spirituality, or the environment if you use it. I will unfollow, block if necessary, disengage. I’ve distanced myself from several people I know in real life who use it, and will continue to do so.
Got out of the house and to the grocery store. Did a small shop, but still spent more than I hoped (just like everyone else dealing with grocery prices). My fishmonger refused to sell me trout on Friday, saying it wasn’t fresh enough anymore, and she was about to pull it from the case. I got flounder instead, and she promised to have a nice cut of salmon for me on New Year’s Eve, when I’ll pick up the salmon we need for that night’s meal.
As I said last week, always make friends with your fishmonger!
We don’t need much until the big meals around New Year’s – we’ll be eating leftovers in the liminal week. I got duck breast for the Day. There weren’t any whole ducks (and I doubt they’d have been in my budget if there had been – I lucked out last year to find one on deep discount). We won’t have a lot of leftovers with this (we might not have any), but it will still be “duck on the Day” which is a tradition I like, when I can pull it off. This duck breast was at the top of my budget for the meal, but still within it, and was the last thing I need for the Day’s meal, except maybe another orange for the sauce, so we’re all good.
I was kind of shocked that they were selling a bony goose carcass for $107, post-Christmas. Um?
I know goose is more expensive than other poultry, but that seems rather. . .absurd.
Besides, the Coq au Vin was delightful and we have leftovers. So many leftovers, some went into the freezer.
On a whim, on the way home, I stopped at a thrift store I regularly visit. There was a silver-looking teapot with a gorgeous, ornate fruit top, for less than $3. Handling it, I think it’s more likely to be pewter than silver, but it’s pretty. I also a good quality 10” pan with a lid in perfect shape (for less than $5) to replace a pan of ours that has lived its life and needs to retire. The tired pan was bought around 2000, I think, at Lechter’s or something. It’s done its job. We have an older 10” pan, copper-bottomed, from the 1960’s that’s still in great shape (when they made things to last) and we use all the time, but we often need two pans of that size going at once.
Would I love to live in a place big enough for a six-burner stove? Why, yes, I would, but I manage with four. A double oven would also make my life easier, but we make do.
I couldn’t stand the thought of boxed mac and cheese (even the organic ones I sometimes buy for lunch options), so I found an easy sauce recipe, cut it in half, and made myself simplified mac and cheese for lunch, by cooking some elbow pasta, making a small portion of the sauce, and tossing in some pancetta. I will make a big pan of Moosewood mac and cheese at some point in January, but that was too much for me to do for lunch. This recipe was okay, but not brilliant. If I make it again, I will tweak it with some herbs and spices. It was still better than boxed, though.
I have no memory of what I did after lunch. Puttered, maybe? Read a little? Played with cats? Caught up on Instagram with friends? Not a darned clue. I remember, at one point, Tessa was in one wingback chair sleeping, my mom was in her chair reading, I was on the sofa reading, with Charlotte on my lap and Bea on the back of the sofa. The only one missing was Willa, who was asleep on my mother’s bed.
I was glad to get things done early, since the storm warnings intensified to the point where shops and restaurants started closing in the afternoon, to make sure their people could get home. Which is a great choice.
I made the parsnip and pear puree from SILVER PALATE GOOD TIMES Cookbook. I was both intrigued and worried about it. I like parsnips, I like pears, but how could they possibly come together? It was either going to be good or awful.
There was peeling and chopping involved, of course. The parsnips cooked in one pot, while I simmered the pears in butter and brandy in another. Once I drained the cooked parsnips, they went back in the pan with the pear mush (it had cooked down to mush) and added salt, pepper, and allspice. It cooled a bit while I steamed the peas and breaded the flounder to cook.
While the flounder was doing its thing (in the new pan, which works very well), I put the parsnip and pear mixture into the food processor with sour cream, processed it, and then returned it to the pan to warm through.
Throughout the whole process, I could not figure out what it would taste like. Even tasting bits as it cooked, I couldn’t prepare my brain for what my mouth would experience.
Fortunately, it’s good. Strange, but good. The fish was a little delicate with it. I think it needs something more robust. The bison would have been a good pairing with it. We have a lot left over, and I wonder what it will taste like cold (it could be used as a spread). I could imagine it on a toasted roll with cold, sliced leftover bison. Only we ate all the bison. But the butcher carries it regularly, and the price isn’t bad, relatively, in relation to a lot of other stuff. It’s certainly at a better price than the goose! So we will see.
I bought a different brand of flavored bread crumb, and regretted it. The flavoring was off, and the consistency of the crumbs was like gravel. That’ll teach me. I’ll go back to my preferred brand when I use these up. Until then, I will have to toss them in the food processor with some fresh herbs whenever I want to use them. So that I can use them up, because I can’t justify just tossing them.
I started reading THE MOTHER TONGUE by Bill Bryson in the evening, about the evolution of the English language. It’s very interesting, and made me realize how much I didn’t know. It’s a little too dry for me right now, so I switched over to WORDHORD by Hanna Videen, which is very lively. And she has an Instagram account, which is fun. Speaking of IG, if you’re not following Medievalist Matt, I highly recommend that account. I learn a lot, and it’s also hilarious. It was snowing quite hard by the time I went to bed, and very pretty.
Slept okay. Woke up around 1 AM after a disturbing dream (sigh, February will be a challenge), because my bad hip hurt. Rolled it out on a tennis ball, the way my acupuncturist taught me way back when, until it stopped grumbling and I could sleep again.
Up at the usual time. Morning routine. Quite a bit of snow, everything muffled and quiet, which was a lovely way to spend morning yoga and meditation. By the time I wrote, the plows were out.
I put in a Chewy order for both wet and dry food. Those little monsters eat a lot, especially in winter. We are still okay for a couple of weeks, but I prefer to have the food here, ready to go, especially with storms coming through regularly. The delivery last week was for the special wet food Willa and Bea get on Sundays.
I did the backing, filling, and quilting on “Vast.” I’m still worried it looks like a giant potholder, and considered pulling it from the show. But I worked the text portion of the piece, and (for once) I’m happy with a poem I wrote. I worked it enough in my head over the weeks, forming it as I formed the textile piece, that the text is where I want it, even if I am unsure about the textile. And hey, with over forty artists in the show, my little piece won’t be noticed!
It’s more abstract that I originally envisioned, but the text supports the changes. I considered adding embellishments to hide the flaws, but I think the simpler I keep it, the better. It won’t be for sale. The whole reason I’m part of the gallery this year is to push myself to experiment, and put those experiments out there.
I found a pattern for inseam pockets that I downloaded and printed out. I usually don’t use PDF patterns, it’s too much of a pain to print them properly. But a pocket is small enough to print, even a decent-sized pocket. And anything I sew in the future with side seams will get an inseam pocket, if at all possible.
The sewing machine was giving me fits. I need to find a place to get it serviced. I’m planning far too much sewing in the coming months to have to deal with what’s going on with it. And yes, it’s not the right machine to use for heavy, quilting work. It’s meant for clothing, even though it’s called a “huskystar.” I’ll ask the Studios where they get their machines serviced, and maybe over at SavvyHive, since they are now doing mending and alterations. I don’t mind hiking over to Bennington or Pittsfield, but I don’t want to go all the way over to Troy or Albany.
The psychological distance to Albany is much greater than the actual, physical distance. Once I have my new tires, I’ll probably feel more comfortable with longer drives.
I got some reading done later in the day, and dealt with some extended family stuff around an unsolved murder from nearly 40 years ago. I found some articles and some information I’d suspected, but didn’t know, and that a family member has tried to get the case some attention in the last few years. The whole situation just makes me so sad.
I dug the back of the car out and set down some sand. I left the snow on the windows and roof to protect the car.
Heated up some Coq Au Vin leftovers, which were really good, and read more at night. Because, you know, this time of year is for reading. (In this house, every time of year is for reading).
Slept reasonably well, although I woke up at 2 AM after a disturbing dream that makes me want to skip March (the dream for that night is tied to March). I fell back asleep, and then didn’t want to get up when Tessa woke me a few hours later. I did, however, have a breakthrough in “Body Games” that fixes where I got stuck. It was as though I had to finish “Vast” before I could breakthrough in “Body Games” (the historical mystery).
I finally got up, did the morning routine, did the Community Tarot Reading for the Week. As I was sorting through files in preparation to get back to “Body Games” I came across a garbled early draft of STAGE FALL. It’s garbled not just because it’s a first draft, but because it was from a different type of file and didn’t properly convert.
STAGE FALL was originally going to be the second Nina Bell mystery. It’s now the fifth, which means a lot has to change as far as arcs that have been established and growing in the interim. The bones of it are there. The show against which it is set was, again, at a theatre inspired by the Orpheum, as was the theatre in VICIOUS. I have to decide if I want to keep it there, or move it to someplace inspired by the Variety Arts, or a different theatre than the one in VICIOUS. It would make sense to work a different show at the same theatre, but maybe I should move it to a different theatre. I do, however, have to plant something in BETTING that I can pull through in STAGE FALL and beyond, or it won’t make sense. I want Nina to start working as a swing dresser on Broadway after the summer theatre/Edinburgh books after MURDEROUS INTERLUDES, so it makes sense to have STAGE FALL be at a different theatre than VICIOUS, still off-Broadway, to give a richer sense of the different theatres.
Finished “Body Games” and several revision/editing passes. It’s finally where I want it. I was just about ready to give up on it.
Stitched and attached the hanging loop and ribbon for “Vast.” Fixed the last two lines of the text portion, printed it out (in Calibri), and put that aside, ready to go. The Chewy order arrived, which was unexpected, so quickly. Cats should have full bellies until the end of February.
Read a bit, heated up the pork leftovers, which were very good. Heated up some parsnip-and-pear puree, and I was right, it’s better with a denser protein for balance.
A friend gave us a box of rose and violet creams. There are a set of rose creams, and a set of violet creams. These are to eat, encased in chocolate, not cream like you put on your body. They’re beautifully wrapped in rose and violet foils, too. It’s such an interesting sensation to taste something one is used to smelling. Smell and taste are closely connected. Often, when I smell a rose, there’s also a hint of a taste. Eating a rose cream, the taste hits first, and much more of it, and then there’s a hint of scent. And the taste of the violet is much stronger than the scent, unless you have a big bunch of them. They’re really good, but very different from a typical edible treat.
Between the floral cream candies and the parsnip-and-pear, it’s been a very sensory holiday, which is lovely.
Slept well, although I woke up around 3:30 from a nice dream about cooking and cookware. So I guess April is all about cooking.
I finally got up, a little after 5, much to Tessa’s glee. I had the whole morning routine done by just past 7 AM, and was at my desk. I figured out some layering I want to do in a scene of “Body Games” before I sent it off.
It was bucketing down with rain, so I decided to wait until late morning to do my errands, which were only a library run and dropping “Vast” off at the gallery.
I did some tweaks, tightening, and layering on “Body Games” and a proofreading pass, and off it went. I doubt there’s much set in this time period (I don’t think I’ve ever read a mystery set during the era, although I’ve heard of CHOCOLATE HOUSE TREASON). I hope the balance of period detail without overexplaining, character arcs, and mystery is interesting enough for them to want it.
I also got out a play submission.
In this liminal time, I’ve intentionally tried to keep away from That Thing’s putrid existence as much as possible. I’m aware of the escalating issues, but I’m giving myself a necessary break.
By late morning, it was still bucketing down. I suited up, brushed the last of the wet snow off the car’s windshield, and headed out. I did a drop-off/pick up at the library, and also checked out some large print books for my mom, who’d run out. I have a few things in transit, so we’ll see when they come in.
Then, I headed down to the gallery. Much to my delight, my friend Jane was there at the same time for her drop-off, along with a new member we will get to know over the course of the year. We got in, filled out our forms, and lined up our pieces neatly. We are all worried about how this rain would freeze overnight, and it’s supposed to snow, on and off, until New Year’s Day. We may have to skate back for the opening on Friday. The weekend after my workshop, Jane is offering tarot readings, so I offered to be a back-up person and help wrangle querants, so she can focus on the readings. She doesn’t think there will be many people; I do. And if there’s a lull, we can chat and catch up!
Good thing I hadn’t gone out to the laundromat Monday morning – they’re digging up the street in front of it again, which means I couldn’t go this morning, either. I don’t like going into the New Year with dirty laundry, but this year, I will have to get over myself. We have enough clean everythings to start the new year fresh.
Soup for lunch on a dreary day, and a quiet afternoon of ghostwriting, reading, research, working on the GDR questions.
Heated up leftover pasta for dinner. Charlotte was delighted to get some freshly grated pasta.
The first box of books for the contest arrived. Usually, it’s a huge box. This batch is tiny, with only a few novellas. The bulk of the books are digital this year. I will get started on this batch, both print and digital, next week.
The rain had changed over to snow, and it was snowing steadily by the time I went to bed. It was harsh and cold when I woke up this morning. Morning routine was good, especially the writing session. I don’t remember what I dreamed, but I woke up feeling pretty decent and calm, so I hope that sets a good tone for May.
On today’s agenda: write the opening for BETTING MAN, pop it into the end of VICIOUS, and send it off to my editor. Then, I work on the outline for BETTING MAN before I switch over to the ghostwriting, which I will do until I leave for yoga.
At some point, I will also finish the next book for review. I’d like to get that written and out tomorrow.
Have a good one – we are almost at year’s end! Hang in there.
#3 #4 #5 #6 #art #cooking #freelance #liminalSpaceBetweenYears #NinaBellMysteries #planning #shortStories
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Tues. Dec. 30, 2025: In That Liminal Space
image courtesy of Mike Dubyna via pixabay.comTuesday, December 30, 2025
Waxing Moon
Chiron, Uranus, Jupiter Retrograde
Cloudy and very cold
Welcome to a new week and, in a couple of days, a new year!
The Community Tarot Reading for the Week is up here. It’s our last week using the Yuletide Tarot. Next week, we switch decks.
If you haven’t had a chance to look over the 2026 questions on the Goals, Dreams, and Resolutions site, you can do so here.
Over the past few weeks, I decided on a title for Nina Bell #6, which will be a collection of novellas covering a specific span of time. None of what happens in that span is enough to sustain an entire book, but it’s all important for her character arc (and those of some other core characters). So I decided to do five shorter pieces, ending in one that will be longer and somewhat disturbing, but is an important catalyst for future arcs. The title is MURDEROUS INTERLUDES, at least at the moment, and the cover designer showed me some roughs.
Nina #3 is VICIOUS CRITIC, Nina #4 is BUT IS SHE A BETTING MAN? (set in Saratoga Springs, during racing season), and Nina #5 is STAGE FALL, set off-Broadway that following fall. MURDEROUS INTERLUDES takes us through that next holiday season into the spring.
That will keep me busy for the foreseeable future!
I mean, if the sales don’t sustain, that changes everything, but sales for the first two books continue to grow. I can’t retire on them or anything, but right now they are sustainable. I hope that VICIOUS CRITIC will build on that, so I can keep writing this series. The Topic Workbooks are holding steady, and I’ll know how the holiday shorts did by early February. The last couple of months, when I’ve been consistent in the marketing, I’ve noticed the difference.
Consistency, be it in the writing or the marketing, is key. I mean, I know that, but I dropped the ball on a few things the last years, for many different reasons (like illness and moving and life chaos and elder care). I need to get back on track in a way that is sustainable balanced with other freelance work and energy levels.
I find that consistency in the morning yoga, meditation, and early morning writing practices help a lot in the actual workday. There are definitely days I consider skipping one or more elements of that, but I’m always glad when I don’t.
I will also explore some other marketing possibilities this coming year, and additional distribution outlets. I’m developing my own marketing style, that has very little to do with what the “experts” claim works. It takes longer, because it’s gentler and more personal, but I think it works better for what I do in the long run.
Someone whose posts I often enjoyed on Instagram boasted about asking ChatGPT to “read her astrological chart” so I unfollowed. Nope. Don’t pretend that AI/ChatGPT has a spiritual connection or ethical spiritual usage. It’s theft and harm on multiple levels. Don’t pretend you care about consent, art, spirituality, or the environment if you use it. I will unfollow, block if necessary, disengage. I’ve distanced myself from several people I know in real life who use it, and will continue to do so.
Got out of the house and to the grocery store. Did a small shop, but still spent more than I hoped (just like everyone else dealing with grocery prices). My fishmonger refused to sell me trout on Friday, saying it wasn’t fresh enough anymore, and she was about to pull it from the case. I got flounder instead, and she promised to have a nice cut of salmon for me on New Year’s Eve, when I’ll pick up the salmon we need for that night’s meal.
As I said last week, always make friends with your fishmonger!
We don’t need much until the big meals around New Year’s – we’ll be eating leftovers in the liminal week. I got duck breast for the Day. There weren’t any whole ducks (and I doubt they’d have been in my budget if there had been – I lucked out last year to find one on deep discount). We won’t have a lot of leftovers with this (we might not have any), but it will still be “duck on the Day” which is a tradition I like, when I can pull it off. This duck breast was at the top of my budget for the meal, but still within it, and was the last thing I need for the Day’s meal, except maybe another orange for the sauce, so we’re all good.
I was kind of shocked that they were selling a bony goose carcass for $107, post-Christmas. Um?
I know goose is more expensive than other poultry, but that seems rather. . .absurd.
Besides, the Coq au Vin was delightful and we have leftovers. So many leftovers, some went into the freezer.
On a whim, on the way home, I stopped at a thrift store I regularly visit. There was a silver-looking teapot with a gorgeous, ornate fruit top, for less than $3. Handling it, I think it’s more likely to be pewter than silver, but it’s pretty. I also a good quality 10” pan with a lid in perfect shape (for less than $5) to replace a pan of ours that has lived its life and needs to retire. The tired pan was bought around 2000, I think, at Lechter’s or something. It’s done its job. We have an older 10” pan, copper-bottomed, from the 1960’s that’s still in great shape (when they made things to last) and we use all the time, but we often need two pans of that size going at once.
Would I love to live in a place big enough for a six-burner stove? Why, yes, I would, but I manage with four. A double oven would also make my life easier, but we make do.
I couldn’t stand the thought of boxed mac and cheese (even the organic ones I sometimes buy for lunch options), so I found an easy sauce recipe, cut it in half, and made myself simplified mac and cheese for lunch, by cooking some elbow pasta, making a small portion of the sauce, and tossing in some pancetta. I will make a big pan of Moosewood mac and cheese at some point in January, but that was too much for me to do for lunch. This recipe was okay, but not brilliant. If I make it again, I will tweak it with some herbs and spices. It was still better than boxed, though.
I have no memory of what I did after lunch. Puttered, maybe? Read a little? Played with cats? Caught up on Instagram with friends? Not a darned clue. I remember, at one point, Tessa was in one wingback chair sleeping, my mom was in her chair reading, I was on the sofa reading, with Charlotte on my lap and Bea on the back of the sofa. The only one missing was Willa, who was asleep on my mother’s bed.
I was glad to get things done early, since the storm warnings intensified to the point where shops and restaurants started closing in the afternoon, to make sure their people could get home. Which is a great choice.
I made the parsnip and pear puree from SILVER PALATE GOOD TIMES Cookbook. I was both intrigued and worried about it. I like parsnips, I like pears, but how could they possibly come together? It was either going to be good or awful.
There was peeling and chopping involved, of course. The parsnips cooked in one pot, while I simmered the pears in butter and brandy in another. Once I drained the cooked parsnips, they went back in the pan with the pear mush (it had cooked down to mush) and added salt, pepper, and allspice. It cooled a bit while I steamed the peas and breaded the flounder to cook.
While the flounder was doing its thing (in the new pan, which works very well), I put the parsnip and pear mixture into the food processor with sour cream, processed it, and then returned it to the pan to warm through.
Throughout the whole process, I could not figure out what it would taste like. Even tasting bits as it cooked, I couldn’t prepare my brain for what my mouth would experience.
Fortunately, it’s good. Strange, but good. The fish was a little delicate with it. I think it needs something more robust. The bison would have been a good pairing with it. We have a lot left over, and I wonder what it will taste like cold (it could be used as a spread). I could imagine it on a toasted roll with cold, sliced leftover bison. Only we ate all the bison. But the butcher carries it regularly, and the price isn’t bad, relatively, in relation to a lot of other stuff. It’s certainly at a better price than the goose! So we will see.
I bought a different brand of flavored bread crumb, and regretted it. The flavoring was off, and the consistency of the crumbs was like gravel. That’ll teach me. I’ll go back to my preferred brand when I use these up. Until then, I will have to toss them in the food processor with some fresh herbs whenever I want to use them. So that I can use them up, because I can’t justify just tossing them.
I started reading THE MOTHER TONGUE by Bill Bryson in the evening, about the evolution of the English language. It’s very interesting, and made me realize how much I didn’t know. It’s a little too dry for me right now, so I switched over to WORDHORD by Hanna Videen, which is very lively. And she has an Instagram account, which is fun. Speaking of IG, if you’re not following Medievalist Matt, I highly recommend that account. I learn a lot, and it’s also hilarious. It was snowing quite hard by the time I went to bed, and very pretty.
Slept okay. Woke up around 1 AM after a disturbing dream (sigh, February will be a challenge), because my bad hip hurt. Rolled it out on a tennis ball, the way my acupuncturist taught me way back when, until it stopped grumbling and I could sleep again.
Up at the usual time. Morning routine. Quite a bit of snow, everything muffled and quiet, which was a lovely way to spend morning yoga and meditation. By the time I wrote, the plows were out.
I put in a Chewy order for both wet and dry food. Those little monsters eat a lot, especially in winter. We are still okay for a couple of weeks, but I prefer to have the food here, ready to go, especially with storms coming through regularly. The delivery last week was for the special wet food Willa and Bea get on Sundays.
I did the backing, filling, and quilting on “Vast.” I’m still worried it looks like a giant potholder, and considered pulling it from the show. But I worked the text portion of the piece, and (for once) I’m happy with a poem I wrote. I worked it enough in my head over the weeks, forming it as I formed the textile piece, that the text is where I want it, even if I am unsure about the textile. And hey, with over forty artists in the show, my little piece won’t be noticed!
It’s more abstract that I originally envisioned, but the text supports the changes. I considered adding embellishments to hide the flaws, but I think the simpler I keep it, the better. It won’t be for sale. The whole reason I’m part of the gallery this year is to push myself to experiment, and put those experiments out there.
I found a pattern for inseam pockets that I downloaded and printed out. I usually don’t use PDF patterns, it’s too much of a pain to print them properly. But a pocket is small enough to print, even a decent-sized pocket. And anything I sew in the future with side seams will get an inseam pocket, if at all possible.
The sewing machine was giving me fits. I need to find a place to get it serviced. I’m planning far too much sewing in the coming months to have to deal with what’s going on with it. And yes, it’s not the right machine to use for heavy, quilting work. It’s meant for clothing, even though it’s called a “huskystar.” I’ll ask the Studios where they get their machines serviced, and maybe over at SavvyHive, since they are now doing mending and alterations. I don’t mind hiking over to Bennington or Pittsfield, but I don’t want to go all the way over to Troy or Albany.
The psychological distance to Albany is much greater than the actual, physical distance. Once I have my new tires, I’ll probably feel more comfortable with longer drives.
I got some reading done later in the day, and dealt with some extended family stuff around an unsolved murder from nearly 40 years ago. I found some articles and some information I’d suspected, but didn’t know, and that a family member has tried to get the case some attention in the last few years. The whole situation just makes me so sad.
I dug the back of the car out and set down some sand. I left the snow on the windows and roof to protect the car.
Heated up some Coq Au Vin leftovers, which were really good, and read more at night. Because, you know, this time of year is for reading. (In this house, every time of year is for reading).
Slept reasonably well, although I woke up at 2 AM after a disturbing dream that makes me want to skip March (the dream for that night is tied to March). I fell back asleep, and then didn’t want to get up when Tessa woke me a few hours later. I did, however, have a breakthrough in “Body Games” that fixes where I got stuck. It was as though I had to finish “Vast” before I could breakthrough in “Body Games” (the historical mystery).
I finally got up, did the morning routine, did the Community Tarot Reading for the Week. As I was sorting through files in preparation to get back to “Body Games” I came across a garbled early draft of STAGE FALL. It’s garbled not just because it’s a first draft, but because it was from a different type of file and didn’t properly convert.
STAGE FALL was originally going to be the second Nina Bell mystery. It’s now the fifth, which means a lot has to change as far as arcs that have been established and growing in the interim. The bones of it are there. The show against which it is set was, again, at a theatre inspired by the Orpheum, as was the theatre in VICIOUS. I have to decide if I want to keep it there, or move it to someplace inspired by the Variety Arts, or a different theatre than the one in VICIOUS. It would make sense to work a different show at the same theatre, but maybe I should move it to a different theatre. I do, however, have to plant something in BETTING that I can pull through in STAGE FALL and beyond, or it won’t make sense. I want Nina to start working as a swing dresser on Broadway after the summer theatre/Edinburgh books after MURDEROUS INTERLUDES, so it makes sense to have STAGE FALL be at a different theatre than VICIOUS, still off-Broadway, to give a richer sense of the different theatres.
Finished “Body Games” and several revision/editing passes. It’s finally where I want it. I was just about ready to give up on it.
Stitched and attached the hanging loop and ribbon for “Vast.” Fixed the last two lines of the text portion, printed it out (in Calibri), and put that aside, ready to go. The Chewy order arrived, which was unexpected, so quickly. Cats should have full bellies until the end of February.
Read a bit, heated up the pork leftovers, which were very good. Heated up some parsnip-and-pear puree, and I was right, it’s better with a denser protein for balance.
A friend gave us a box of rose and violet creams. There are a set of rose creams, and a set of violet creams. These are to eat, encased in chocolate, not cream like you put on your body. They’re beautifully wrapped in rose and violet foils, too. It’s such an interesting sensation to taste something one is used to smelling. Smell and taste are closely connected. Often, when I smell a rose, there’s also a hint of a taste. Eating a rose cream, the taste hits first, and much more of it, and then there’s a hint of scent. And the taste of the violet is much stronger than the scent, unless you have a big bunch of them. They’re really good, but very different from a typical edible treat.
Between the floral cream candies and the parsnip-and-pear, it’s been a very sensory holiday, which is lovely.
Slept well, although I woke up around 3:30 from a nice dream about cooking and cookware. So I guess April is all about cooking.
I finally got up, a little after 5, much to Tessa’s glee. I had the whole morning routine done by just past 7 AM, and was at my desk. I figured out some layering I want to do in a scene of “Body Games” before I sent it off.
It was bucketing down with rain, so I decided to wait until late morning to do my errands, which were only a library run and dropping “Vast” off at the gallery.
I did some tweaks, tightening, and layering on “Body Games” and a proofreading pass, and off it went. I doubt there’s much set in this time period (I don’t think I’ve ever read a mystery set during the era, although I’ve heard of CHOCOLATE HOUSE TREASON). I hope the balance of period detail without overexplaining, character arcs, and mystery is interesting enough for them to want it.
I also got out a play submission.
In this liminal time, I’ve intentionally tried to keep away from That Thing’s putrid existence as much as possible. I’m aware of the escalating issues, but I’m giving myself a necessary break.
By late morning, it was still bucketing down. I suited up, brushed the last of the wet snow off the car’s windshield, and headed out. I did a drop-off/pick up at the library, and also checked out some large print books for my mom, who’d run out. I have a few things in transit, so we’ll see when they come in.
Then, I headed down to the gallery. Much to my delight, my friend Jane was there at the same time for her drop-off, along with a new member we will get to know over the course of the year. We got in, filled out our forms, and lined up our pieces neatly. We are all worried about how this rain would freeze overnight, and it’s supposed to snow, on and off, until New Year’s Day. We may have to skate back for the opening on Friday. The weekend after my workshop, Jane is offering tarot readings, so I offered to be a back-up person and help wrangle querants, so she can focus on the readings. She doesn’t think there will be many people; I do. And if there’s a lull, we can chat and catch up!
Good thing I hadn’t gone out to the laundromat Monday morning – they’re digging up the street in front of it again, which means I couldn’t go this morning, either. I don’t like going into the New Year with dirty laundry, but this year, I will have to get over myself. We have enough clean everythings to start the new year fresh.
Soup for lunch on a dreary day, and a quiet afternoon of ghostwriting, reading, research, working on the GDR questions.
Heated up leftover pasta for dinner. Charlotte was delighted to get some freshly grated pasta.
The first box of books for the contest arrived. Usually, it’s a huge box. This batch is tiny, with only a few novellas. The bulk of the books are digital this year. I will get started on this batch, both print and digital, next week.
The rain had changed over to snow, and it was snowing steadily by the time I went to bed. It was harsh and cold when I woke up this morning. Morning routine was good, especially the writing session. I don’t remember what I dreamed, but I woke up feeling pretty decent and calm, so I hope that sets a good tone for May.
On today’s agenda: write the opening for BETTING MAN, pop it into the end of VICIOUS, and send it off to my editor. Then, I work on the outline for BETTING MAN before I switch over to the ghostwriting, which I will do until I leave for yoga.
At some point, I will also finish the next book for review. I’d like to get that written and out tomorrow.
Have a good one – we are almost at year’s end! Hang in there.
#3 #4 #5 #6 #art #cooking #freelance #liminalSpaceBetweenYears #NinaBellMysteries #planning #shortStories
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Tues. Dec. 30, 2025: In That Liminal Space
image courtesy of Mike Dubyna via pixabay.comTuesday, December 30, 2025
Waxing Moon
Chiron, Uranus, Jupiter Retrograde
Cloudy and very cold
Welcome to a new week and, in a couple of days, a new year!
The Community Tarot Reading for the Week is up here. It’s our last week using the Yuletide Tarot. Next week, we switch decks.
If you haven’t had a chance to look over the 2026 questions on the Goals, Dreams, and Resolutions site, you can do so here.
Over the past few weeks, I decided on a title for Nina Bell #6, which will be a collection of novellas covering a specific span of time. None of what happens in that span is enough to sustain an entire book, but it’s all important for her character arc (and those of some other core characters). So I decided to do five shorter pieces, ending in one that will be longer and somewhat disturbing, but is an important catalyst for future arcs. The title is MURDEROUS INTERLUDES, at least at the moment, and the cover designer showed me some roughs.
Nina #3 is VICIOUS CRITIC, Nina #4 is BUT IS SHE A BETTING MAN? (set in Saratoga Springs, during racing season), and Nina #5 is STAGE FALL, set off-Broadway that following fall. MURDEROUS INTERLUDES takes us through that next holiday season into the spring.
That will keep me busy for the foreseeable future!
I mean, if the sales don’t sustain, that changes everything, but sales for the first two books continue to grow. I can’t retire on them or anything, but right now they are sustainable. I hope that VICIOUS CRITIC will build on that, so I can keep writing this series. The Topic Workbooks are holding steady, and I’ll know how the holiday shorts did by early February. The last couple of months, when I’ve been consistent in the marketing, I’ve noticed the difference.
Consistency, be it in the writing or the marketing, is key. I mean, I know that, but I dropped the ball on a few things the last years, for many different reasons (like illness and moving and life chaos and elder care). I need to get back on track in a way that is sustainable balanced with other freelance work and energy levels.
I find that consistency in the morning yoga, meditation, and early morning writing practices help a lot in the actual workday. There are definitely days I consider skipping one or more elements of that, but I’m always glad when I don’t.
I will also explore some other marketing possibilities this coming year, and additional distribution outlets. I’m developing my own marketing style, that has very little to do with what the “experts” claim works. It takes longer, because it’s gentler and more personal, but I think it works better for what I do in the long run.
Someone whose posts I often enjoyed on Instagram boasted about asking ChatGPT to “read her astrological chart” so I unfollowed. Nope. Don’t pretend that AI/ChatGPT has a spiritual connection or ethical spiritual usage. It’s theft and harm on multiple levels. Don’t pretend you care about consent, art, spirituality, or the environment if you use it. I will unfollow, block if necessary, disengage. I’ve distanced myself from several people I know in real life who use it, and will continue to do so.
Got out of the house and to the grocery store. Did a small shop, but still spent more than I hoped (just like everyone else dealing with grocery prices). My fishmonger refused to sell me trout on Friday, saying it wasn’t fresh enough anymore, and she was about to pull it from the case. I got flounder instead, and she promised to have a nice cut of salmon for me on New Year’s Eve, when I’ll pick up the salmon we need for that night’s meal.
As I said last week, always make friends with your fishmonger!
We don’t need much until the big meals around New Year’s – we’ll be eating leftovers in the liminal week. I got duck breast for the Day. There weren’t any whole ducks (and I doubt they’d have been in my budget if there had been – I lucked out last year to find one on deep discount). We won’t have a lot of leftovers with this (we might not have any), but it will still be “duck on the Day” which is a tradition I like, when I can pull it off. This duck breast was at the top of my budget for the meal, but still within it, and was the last thing I need for the Day’s meal, except maybe another orange for the sauce, so we’re all good.
I was kind of shocked that they were selling a bony goose carcass for $107, post-Christmas. Um?
I know goose is more expensive than other poultry, but that seems rather. . .absurd.
Besides, the Coq au Vin was delightful and we have leftovers. So many leftovers, some went into the freezer.
On a whim, on the way home, I stopped at a thrift store I regularly visit. There was a silver-looking teapot with a gorgeous, ornate fruit top, for less than $3. Handling it, I think it’s more likely to be pewter than silver, but it’s pretty. I also a good quality 10” pan with a lid in perfect shape (for less than $5) to replace a pan of ours that has lived its life and needs to retire. The tired pan was bought around 2000, I think, at Lechter’s or something. It’s done its job. We have an older 10” pan, copper-bottomed, from the 1960’s that’s still in great shape (when they made things to last) and we use all the time, but we often need two pans of that size going at once.
Would I love to live in a place big enough for a six-burner stove? Why, yes, I would, but I manage with four. A double oven would also make my life easier, but we make do.
I couldn’t stand the thought of boxed mac and cheese (even the organic ones I sometimes buy for lunch options), so I found an easy sauce recipe, cut it in half, and made myself simplified mac and cheese for lunch, by cooking some elbow pasta, making a small portion of the sauce, and tossing in some pancetta. I will make a big pan of Moosewood mac and cheese at some point in January, but that was too much for me to do for lunch. This recipe was okay, but not brilliant. If I make it again, I will tweak it with some herbs and spices. It was still better than boxed, though.
I have no memory of what I did after lunch. Puttered, maybe? Read a little? Played with cats? Caught up on Instagram with friends? Not a darned clue. I remember, at one point, Tessa was in one wingback chair sleeping, my mom was in her chair reading, I was on the sofa reading, with Charlotte on my lap and Bea on the back of the sofa. The only one missing was Willa, who was asleep on my mother’s bed.
I was glad to get things done early, since the storm warnings intensified to the point where shops and restaurants started closing in the afternoon, to make sure their people could get home. Which is a great choice.
I made the parsnip and pear puree from SILVER PALATE GOOD TIMES Cookbook. I was both intrigued and worried about it. I like parsnips, I like pears, but how could they possibly come together? It was either going to be good or awful.
There was peeling and chopping involved, of course. The parsnips cooked in one pot, while I simmered the pears in butter and brandy in another. Once I drained the cooked parsnips, they went back in the pan with the pear mush (it had cooked down to mush) and added salt, pepper, and allspice. It cooled a bit while I steamed the peas and breaded the flounder to cook.
While the flounder was doing its thing (in the new pan, which works very well), I put the parsnip and pear mixture into the food processor with sour cream, processed it, and then returned it to the pan to warm through.
Throughout the whole process, I could not figure out what it would taste like. Even tasting bits as it cooked, I couldn’t prepare my brain for what my mouth would experience.
Fortunately, it’s good. Strange, but good. The fish was a little delicate with it. I think it needs something more robust. The bison would have been a good pairing with it. We have a lot left over, and I wonder what it will taste like cold (it could be used as a spread). I could imagine it on a toasted roll with cold, sliced leftover bison. Only we ate all the bison. But the butcher carries it regularly, and the price isn’t bad, relatively, in relation to a lot of other stuff. It’s certainly at a better price than the goose! So we will see.
I bought a different brand of flavored bread crumb, and regretted it. The flavoring was off, and the consistency of the crumbs was like gravel. That’ll teach me. I’ll go back to my preferred brand when I use these up. Until then, I will have to toss them in the food processor with some fresh herbs whenever I want to use them. So that I can use them up, because I can’t justify just tossing them.
I started reading THE MOTHER TONGUE by Bill Bryson in the evening, about the evolution of the English language. It’s very interesting, and made me realize how much I didn’t know. It’s a little too dry for me right now, so I switched over to WORDHORD by Hanna Videen, which is very lively. And she has an Instagram account, which is fun. Speaking of IG, if you’re not following Medievalist Matt, I highly recommend that account. I learn a lot, and it’s also hilarious. It was snowing quite hard by the time I went to bed, and very pretty.
Slept okay. Woke up around 1 AM after a disturbing dream (sigh, February will be a challenge), because my bad hip hurt. Rolled it out on a tennis ball, the way my acupuncturist taught me way back when, until it stopped grumbling and I could sleep again.
Up at the usual time. Morning routine. Quite a bit of snow, everything muffled and quiet, which was a lovely way to spend morning yoga and meditation. By the time I wrote, the plows were out.
I put in a Chewy order for both wet and dry food. Those little monsters eat a lot, especially in winter. We are still okay for a couple of weeks, but I prefer to have the food here, ready to go, especially with storms coming through regularly. The delivery last week was for the special wet food Willa and Bea get on Sundays.
I did the backing, filling, and quilting on “Vast.” I’m still worried it looks like a giant potholder, and considered pulling it from the show. But I worked the text portion of the piece, and (for once) I’m happy with a poem I wrote. I worked it enough in my head over the weeks, forming it as I formed the textile piece, that the text is where I want it, even if I am unsure about the textile. And hey, with over forty artists in the show, my little piece won’t be noticed!
It’s more abstract that I originally envisioned, but the text supports the changes. I considered adding embellishments to hide the flaws, but I think the simpler I keep it, the better. It won’t be for sale. The whole reason I’m part of the gallery this year is to push myself to experiment, and put those experiments out there.
I found a pattern for inseam pockets that I downloaded and printed out. I usually don’t use PDF patterns, it’s too much of a pain to print them properly. But a pocket is small enough to print, even a decent-sized pocket. And anything I sew in the future with side seams will get an inseam pocket, if at all possible.
The sewing machine was giving me fits. I need to find a place to get it serviced. I’m planning far too much sewing in the coming months to have to deal with what’s going on with it. And yes, it’s not the right machine to use for heavy, quilting work. It’s meant for clothing, even though it’s called a “huskystar.” I’ll ask the Studios where they get their machines serviced, and maybe over at SavvyHive, since they are now doing mending and alterations. I don’t mind hiking over to Bennington or Pittsfield, but I don’t want to go all the way over to Troy or Albany.
The psychological distance to Albany is much greater than the actual, physical distance. Once I have my new tires, I’ll probably feel more comfortable with longer drives.
I got some reading done later in the day, and dealt with some extended family stuff around an unsolved murder from nearly 40 years ago. I found some articles and some information I’d suspected, but didn’t know, and that a family member has tried to get the case some attention in the last few years. The whole situation just makes me so sad.
I dug the back of the car out and set down some sand. I left the snow on the windows and roof to protect the car.
Heated up some Coq Au Vin leftovers, which were really good, and read more at night. Because, you know, this time of year is for reading. (In this house, every time of year is for reading).
Slept reasonably well, although I woke up at 2 AM after a disturbing dream that makes me want to skip March (the dream for that night is tied to March). I fell back asleep, and then didn’t want to get up when Tessa woke me a few hours later. I did, however, have a breakthrough in “Body Games” that fixes where I got stuck. It was as though I had to finish “Vast” before I could breakthrough in “Body Games” (the historical mystery).
I finally got up, did the morning routine, did the Community Tarot Reading for the Week. As I was sorting through files in preparation to get back to “Body Games” I came across a garbled early draft of STAGE FALL. It’s garbled not just because it’s a first draft, but because it was from a different type of file and didn’t properly convert.
STAGE FALL was originally going to be the second Nina Bell mystery. It’s now the fifth, which means a lot has to change as far as arcs that have been established and growing in the interim. The bones of it are there. The show against which it is set was, again, at a theatre inspired by the Orpheum, as was the theatre in VICIOUS. I have to decide if I want to keep it there, or move it to someplace inspired by the Variety Arts, or a different theatre than the one in VICIOUS. It would make sense to work a different show at the same theatre, but maybe I should move it to a different theatre. I do, however, have to plant something in BETTING that I can pull through in STAGE FALL and beyond, or it won’t make sense. I want Nina to start working as a swing dresser on Broadway after the summer theatre/Edinburgh books after MURDEROUS INTERLUDES, so it makes sense to have STAGE FALL be at a different theatre than VICIOUS, still off-Broadway, to give a richer sense of the different theatres.
Finished “Body Games” and several revision/editing passes. It’s finally where I want it. I was just about ready to give up on it.
Stitched and attached the hanging loop and ribbon for “Vast.” Fixed the last two lines of the text portion, printed it out (in Calibri), and put that aside, ready to go. The Chewy order arrived, which was unexpected, so quickly. Cats should have full bellies until the end of February.
Read a bit, heated up the pork leftovers, which were very good. Heated up some parsnip-and-pear puree, and I was right, it’s better with a denser protein for balance.
A friend gave us a box of rose and violet creams. There are a set of rose creams, and a set of violet creams. These are to eat, encased in chocolate, not cream like you put on your body. They’re beautifully wrapped in rose and violet foils, too. It’s such an interesting sensation to taste something one is used to smelling. Smell and taste are closely connected. Often, when I smell a rose, there’s also a hint of a taste. Eating a rose cream, the taste hits first, and much more of it, and then there’s a hint of scent. And the taste of the violet is much stronger than the scent, unless you have a big bunch of them. They’re really good, but very different from a typical edible treat.
Between the floral cream candies and the parsnip-and-pear, it’s been a very sensory holiday, which is lovely.
Slept well, although I woke up around 3:30 from a nice dream about cooking and cookware. So I guess April is all about cooking.
I finally got up, a little after 5, much to Tessa’s glee. I had the whole morning routine done by just past 7 AM, and was at my desk. I figured out some layering I want to do in a scene of “Body Games” before I sent it off.
It was bucketing down with rain, so I decided to wait until late morning to do my errands, which were only a library run and dropping “Vast” off at the gallery.
I did some tweaks, tightening, and layering on “Body Games” and a proofreading pass, and off it went. I doubt there’s much set in this time period (I don’t think I’ve ever read a mystery set during the era, although I’ve heard of CHOCOLATE HOUSE TREASON). I hope the balance of period detail without overexplaining, character arcs, and mystery is interesting enough for them to want it.
I also got out a play submission.
In this liminal time, I’ve intentionally tried to keep away from That Thing’s putrid existence as much as possible. I’m aware of the escalating issues, but I’m giving myself a necessary break.
By late morning, it was still bucketing down. I suited up, brushed the last of the wet snow off the car’s windshield, and headed out. I did a drop-off/pick up at the library, and also checked out some large print books for my mom, who’d run out. I have a few things in transit, so we’ll see when they come in.
Then, I headed down to the gallery. Much to my delight, my friend Jane was there at the same time for her drop-off, along with a new member we will get to know over the course of the year. We got in, filled out our forms, and lined up our pieces neatly. We are all worried about how this rain would freeze overnight, and it’s supposed to snow, on and off, until New Year’s Day. We may have to skate back for the opening on Friday. The weekend after my workshop, Jane is offering tarot readings, so I offered to be a back-up person and help wrangle querants, so she can focus on the readings. She doesn’t think there will be many people; I do. And if there’s a lull, we can chat and catch up!
Good thing I hadn’t gone out to the laundromat Monday morning – they’re digging up the street in front of it again, which means I couldn’t go this morning, either. I don’t like going into the New Year with dirty laundry, but this year, I will have to get over myself. We have enough clean everythings to start the new year fresh.
Soup for lunch on a dreary day, and a quiet afternoon of ghostwriting, reading, research, working on the GDR questions.
Heated up leftover pasta for dinner. Charlotte was delighted to get some freshly grated pasta.
The first box of books for the contest arrived. Usually, it’s a huge box. This batch is tiny, with only a few novellas. The bulk of the books are digital this year. I will get started on this batch, both print and digital, next week.
The rain had changed over to snow, and it was snowing steadily by the time I went to bed. It was harsh and cold when I woke up this morning. Morning routine was good, especially the writing session. I don’t remember what I dreamed, but I woke up feeling pretty decent and calm, so I hope that sets a good tone for May.
On today’s agenda: write the opening for BETTING MAN, pop it into the end of VICIOUS, and send it off to my editor. Then, I work on the outline for BETTING MAN before I switch over to the ghostwriting, which I will do until I leave for yoga.
At some point, I will also finish the next book for review. I’d like to get that written and out tomorrow.
Have a good one – we are almost at year’s end! Hang in there.
#3 #4 #5 #6 #art #cooking #freelance #liminalSpaceBetweenYears #NinaBellMysteries #planning #shortStories
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Tues. Dec. 30, 2025: In That Liminal Space
image courtesy of Mike Dubyna via pixabay.comTuesday, December 30, 2025
Waxing Moon
Chiron, Uranus, Jupiter Retrograde
Cloudy and very cold
Welcome to a new week and, in a couple of days, a new year!
The Community Tarot Reading for the Week is up here. It’s our last week using the Yuletide Tarot. Next week, we switch decks.
If you haven’t had a chance to look over the 2026 questions on the Goals, Dreams, and Resolutions site, you can do so here.
Over the past few weeks, I decided on a title for Nina Bell #6, which will be a collection of novellas covering a specific span of time. None of what happens in that span is enough to sustain an entire book, but it’s all important for her character arc (and those of some other core characters). So I decided to do five shorter pieces, ending in one that will be longer and somewhat disturbing, but is an important catalyst for future arcs. The title is MURDEROUS INTERLUDES, at least at the moment, and the cover designer showed me some roughs.
Nina #3 is VICIOUS CRITIC, Nina #4 is BUT IS SHE A BETTING MAN? (set in Saratoga Springs, during racing season), and Nina #5 is STAGE FALL, set off-Broadway that following fall. MURDEROUS INTERLUDES takes us through that next holiday season into the spring.
That will keep me busy for the foreseeable future!
I mean, if the sales don’t sustain, that changes everything, but sales for the first two books continue to grow. I can’t retire on them or anything, but right now they are sustainable. I hope that VICIOUS CRITIC will build on that, so I can keep writing this series. The Topic Workbooks are holding steady, and I’ll know how the holiday shorts did by early February. The last couple of months, when I’ve been consistent in the marketing, I’ve noticed the difference.
Consistency, be it in the writing or the marketing, is key. I mean, I know that, but I dropped the ball on a few things the last years, for many different reasons (like illness and moving and life chaos and elder care). I need to get back on track in a way that is sustainable balanced with other freelance work and energy levels.
I find that consistency in the morning yoga, meditation, and early morning writing practices help a lot in the actual workday. There are definitely days I consider skipping one or more elements of that, but I’m always glad when I don’t.
I will also explore some other marketing possibilities this coming year, and additional distribution outlets. I’m developing my own marketing style, that has very little to do with what the “experts” claim works. It takes longer, because it’s gentler and more personal, but I think it works better for what I do in the long run.
Someone whose posts I often enjoyed on Instagram boasted about asking ChatGPT to “read her astrological chart” so I unfollowed. Nope. Don’t pretend that AI/ChatGPT has a spiritual connection or ethical spiritual usage. It’s theft and harm on multiple levels. Don’t pretend you care about consent, art, spirituality, or the environment if you use it. I will unfollow, block if necessary, disengage. I’ve distanced myself from several people I know in real life who use it, and will continue to do so.
Got out of the house and to the grocery store. Did a small shop, but still spent more than I hoped (just like everyone else dealing with grocery prices). My fishmonger refused to sell me trout on Friday, saying it wasn’t fresh enough anymore, and she was about to pull it from the case. I got flounder instead, and she promised to have a nice cut of salmon for me on New Year’s Eve, when I’ll pick up the salmon we need for that night’s meal.
As I said last week, always make friends with your fishmonger!
We don’t need much until the big meals around New Year’s – we’ll be eating leftovers in the liminal week. I got duck breast for the Day. There weren’t any whole ducks (and I doubt they’d have been in my budget if there had been – I lucked out last year to find one on deep discount). We won’t have a lot of leftovers with this (we might not have any), but it will still be “duck on the Day” which is a tradition I like, when I can pull it off. This duck breast was at the top of my budget for the meal, but still within it, and was the last thing I need for the Day’s meal, except maybe another orange for the sauce, so we’re all good.
I was kind of shocked that they were selling a bony goose carcass for $107, post-Christmas. Um?
I know goose is more expensive than other poultry, but that seems rather. . .absurd.
Besides, the Coq au Vin was delightful and we have leftovers. So many leftovers, some went into the freezer.
On a whim, on the way home, I stopped at a thrift store I regularly visit. There was a silver-looking teapot with a gorgeous, ornate fruit top, for less than $3. Handling it, I think it’s more likely to be pewter than silver, but it’s pretty. I also a good quality 10” pan with a lid in perfect shape (for less than $5) to replace a pan of ours that has lived its life and needs to retire. The tired pan was bought around 2000, I think, at Lechter’s or something. It’s done its job. We have an older 10” pan, copper-bottomed, from the 1960’s that’s still in great shape (when they made things to last) and we use all the time, but we often need two pans of that size going at once.
Would I love to live in a place big enough for a six-burner stove? Why, yes, I would, but I manage with four. A double oven would also make my life easier, but we make do.
I couldn’t stand the thought of boxed mac and cheese (even the organic ones I sometimes buy for lunch options), so I found an easy sauce recipe, cut it in half, and made myself simplified mac and cheese for lunch, by cooking some elbow pasta, making a small portion of the sauce, and tossing in some pancetta. I will make a big pan of Moosewood mac and cheese at some point in January, but that was too much for me to do for lunch. This recipe was okay, but not brilliant. If I make it again, I will tweak it with some herbs and spices. It was still better than boxed, though.
I have no memory of what I did after lunch. Puttered, maybe? Read a little? Played with cats? Caught up on Instagram with friends? Not a darned clue. I remember, at one point, Tessa was in one wingback chair sleeping, my mom was in her chair reading, I was on the sofa reading, with Charlotte on my lap and Bea on the back of the sofa. The only one missing was Willa, who was asleep on my mother’s bed.
I was glad to get things done early, since the storm warnings intensified to the point where shops and restaurants started closing in the afternoon, to make sure their people could get home. Which is a great choice.
I made the parsnip and pear puree from SILVER PALATE GOOD TIMES Cookbook. I was both intrigued and worried about it. I like parsnips, I like pears, but how could they possibly come together? It was either going to be good or awful.
There was peeling and chopping involved, of course. The parsnips cooked in one pot, while I simmered the pears in butter and brandy in another. Once I drained the cooked parsnips, they went back in the pan with the pear mush (it had cooked down to mush) and added salt, pepper, and allspice. It cooled a bit while I steamed the peas and breaded the flounder to cook.
While the flounder was doing its thing (in the new pan, which works very well), I put the parsnip and pear mixture into the food processor with sour cream, processed it, and then returned it to the pan to warm through.
Throughout the whole process, I could not figure out what it would taste like. Even tasting bits as it cooked, I couldn’t prepare my brain for what my mouth would experience.
Fortunately, it’s good. Strange, but good. The fish was a little delicate with it. I think it needs something more robust. The bison would have been a good pairing with it. We have a lot left over, and I wonder what it will taste like cold (it could be used as a spread). I could imagine it on a toasted roll with cold, sliced leftover bison. Only we ate all the bison. But the butcher carries it regularly, and the price isn’t bad, relatively, in relation to a lot of other stuff. It’s certainly at a better price than the goose! So we will see.
I bought a different brand of flavored bread crumb, and regretted it. The flavoring was off, and the consistency of the crumbs was like gravel. That’ll teach me. I’ll go back to my preferred brand when I use these up. Until then, I will have to toss them in the food processor with some fresh herbs whenever I want to use them. So that I can use them up, because I can’t justify just tossing them.
I started reading THE MOTHER TONGUE by Bill Bryson in the evening, about the evolution of the English language. It’s very interesting, and made me realize how much I didn’t know. It’s a little too dry for me right now, so I switched over to WORDHORD by Hanna Videen, which is very lively. And she has an Instagram account, which is fun. Speaking of IG, if you’re not following Medievalist Matt, I highly recommend that account. I learn a lot, and it’s also hilarious. It was snowing quite hard by the time I went to bed, and very pretty.
Slept okay. Woke up around 1 AM after a disturbing dream (sigh, February will be a challenge), because my bad hip hurt. Rolled it out on a tennis ball, the way my acupuncturist taught me way back when, until it stopped grumbling and I could sleep again.
Up at the usual time. Morning routine. Quite a bit of snow, everything muffled and quiet, which was a lovely way to spend morning yoga and meditation. By the time I wrote, the plows were out.
I put in a Chewy order for both wet and dry food. Those little monsters eat a lot, especially in winter. We are still okay for a couple of weeks, but I prefer to have the food here, ready to go, especially with storms coming through regularly. The delivery last week was for the special wet food Willa and Bea get on Sundays.
I did the backing, filling, and quilting on “Vast.” I’m still worried it looks like a giant potholder, and considered pulling it from the show. But I worked the text portion of the piece, and (for once) I’m happy with a poem I wrote. I worked it enough in my head over the weeks, forming it as I formed the textile piece, that the text is where I want it, even if I am unsure about the textile. And hey, with over forty artists in the show, my little piece won’t be noticed!
It’s more abstract that I originally envisioned, but the text supports the changes. I considered adding embellishments to hide the flaws, but I think the simpler I keep it, the better. It won’t be for sale. The whole reason I’m part of the gallery this year is to push myself to experiment, and put those experiments out there.
I found a pattern for inseam pockets that I downloaded and printed out. I usually don’t use PDF patterns, it’s too much of a pain to print them properly. But a pocket is small enough to print, even a decent-sized pocket. And anything I sew in the future with side seams will get an inseam pocket, if at all possible.
The sewing machine was giving me fits. I need to find a place to get it serviced. I’m planning far too much sewing in the coming months to have to deal with what’s going on with it. And yes, it’s not the right machine to use for heavy, quilting work. It’s meant for clothing, even though it’s called a “huskystar.” I’ll ask the Studios where they get their machines serviced, and maybe over at SavvyHive, since they are now doing mending and alterations. I don’t mind hiking over to Bennington or Pittsfield, but I don’t want to go all the way over to Troy or Albany.
The psychological distance to Albany is much greater than the actual, physical distance. Once I have my new tires, I’ll probably feel more comfortable with longer drives.
I got some reading done later in the day, and dealt with some extended family stuff around an unsolved murder from nearly 40 years ago. I found some articles and some information I’d suspected, but didn’t know, and that a family member has tried to get the case some attention in the last few years. The whole situation just makes me so sad.
I dug the back of the car out and set down some sand. I left the snow on the windows and roof to protect the car.
Heated up some Coq Au Vin leftovers, which were really good, and read more at night. Because, you know, this time of year is for reading. (In this house, every time of year is for reading).
Slept reasonably well, although I woke up at 2 AM after a disturbing dream that makes me want to skip March (the dream for that night is tied to March). I fell back asleep, and then didn’t want to get up when Tessa woke me a few hours later. I did, however, have a breakthrough in “Body Games” that fixes where I got stuck. It was as though I had to finish “Vast” before I could breakthrough in “Body Games” (the historical mystery).
I finally got up, did the morning routine, did the Community Tarot Reading for the Week. As I was sorting through files in preparation to get back to “Body Games” I came across a garbled early draft of STAGE FALL. It’s garbled not just because it’s a first draft, but because it was from a different type of file and didn’t properly convert.
STAGE FALL was originally going to be the second Nina Bell mystery. It’s now the fifth, which means a lot has to change as far as arcs that have been established and growing in the interim. The bones of it are there. The show against which it is set was, again, at a theatre inspired by the Orpheum, as was the theatre in VICIOUS. I have to decide if I want to keep it there, or move it to someplace inspired by the Variety Arts, or a different theatre than the one in VICIOUS. It would make sense to work a different show at the same theatre, but maybe I should move it to a different theatre. I do, however, have to plant something in BETTING that I can pull through in STAGE FALL and beyond, or it won’t make sense. I want Nina to start working as a swing dresser on Broadway after the summer theatre/Edinburgh books after MURDEROUS INTERLUDES, so it makes sense to have STAGE FALL be at a different theatre than VICIOUS, still off-Broadway, to give a richer sense of the different theatres.
Finished “Body Games” and several revision/editing passes. It’s finally where I want it. I was just about ready to give up on it.
Stitched and attached the hanging loop and ribbon for “Vast.” Fixed the last two lines of the text portion, printed it out (in Calibri), and put that aside, ready to go. The Chewy order arrived, which was unexpected, so quickly. Cats should have full bellies until the end of February.
Read a bit, heated up the pork leftovers, which were very good. Heated up some parsnip-and-pear puree, and I was right, it’s better with a denser protein for balance.
A friend gave us a box of rose and violet creams. There are a set of rose creams, and a set of violet creams. These are to eat, encased in chocolate, not cream like you put on your body. They’re beautifully wrapped in rose and violet foils, too. It’s such an interesting sensation to taste something one is used to smelling. Smell and taste are closely connected. Often, when I smell a rose, there’s also a hint of a taste. Eating a rose cream, the taste hits first, and much more of it, and then there’s a hint of scent. And the taste of the violet is much stronger than the scent, unless you have a big bunch of them. They’re really good, but very different from a typical edible treat.
Between the floral cream candies and the parsnip-and-pear, it’s been a very sensory holiday, which is lovely.
Slept well, although I woke up around 3:30 from a nice dream about cooking and cookware. So I guess April is all about cooking.
I finally got up, a little after 5, much to Tessa’s glee. I had the whole morning routine done by just past 7 AM, and was at my desk. I figured out some layering I want to do in a scene of “Body Games” before I sent it off.
It was bucketing down with rain, so I decided to wait until late morning to do my errands, which were only a library run and dropping “Vast” off at the gallery.
I did some tweaks, tightening, and layering on “Body Games” and a proofreading pass, and off it went. I doubt there’s much set in this time period (I don’t think I’ve ever read a mystery set during the era, although I’ve heard of CHOCOLATE HOUSE TREASON). I hope the balance of period detail without overexplaining, character arcs, and mystery is interesting enough for them to want it.
I also got out a play submission.
In this liminal time, I’ve intentionally tried to keep away from That Thing’s putrid existence as much as possible. I’m aware of the escalating issues, but I’m giving myself a necessary break.
By late morning, it was still bucketing down. I suited up, brushed the last of the wet snow off the car’s windshield, and headed out. I did a drop-off/pick up at the library, and also checked out some large print books for my mom, who’d run out. I have a few things in transit, so we’ll see when they come in.
Then, I headed down to the gallery. Much to my delight, my friend Jane was there at the same time for her drop-off, along with a new member we will get to know over the course of the year. We got in, filled out our forms, and lined up our pieces neatly. We are all worried about how this rain would freeze overnight, and it’s supposed to snow, on and off, until New Year’s Day. We may have to skate back for the opening on Friday. The weekend after my workshop, Jane is offering tarot readings, so I offered to be a back-up person and help wrangle querants, so she can focus on the readings. She doesn’t think there will be many people; I do. And if there’s a lull, we can chat and catch up!
Good thing I hadn’t gone out to the laundromat Monday morning – they’re digging up the street in front of it again, which means I couldn’t go this morning, either. I don’t like going into the New Year with dirty laundry, but this year, I will have to get over myself. We have enough clean everythings to start the new year fresh.
Soup for lunch on a dreary day, and a quiet afternoon of ghostwriting, reading, research, working on the GDR questions.
Heated up leftover pasta for dinner. Charlotte was delighted to get some freshly grated pasta.
The first box of books for the contest arrived. Usually, it’s a huge box. This batch is tiny, with only a few novellas. The bulk of the books are digital this year. I will get started on this batch, both print and digital, next week.
The rain had changed over to snow, and it was snowing steadily by the time I went to bed. It was harsh and cold when I woke up this morning. Morning routine was good, especially the writing session. I don’t remember what I dreamed, but I woke up feeling pretty decent and calm, so I hope that sets a good tone for May.
On today’s agenda: write the opening for BETTING MAN, pop it into the end of VICIOUS, and send it off to my editor. Then, I work on the outline for BETTING MAN before I switch over to the ghostwriting, which I will do until I leave for yoga.
At some point, I will also finish the next book for review. I’d like to get that written and out tomorrow.
Have a good one – we are almost at year’s end! Hang in there.
#3 #4 #5 #6 #art #cooking #freelance #liminalSpaceBetweenYears #NinaBellMysteries #planning #shortStories
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