Five days in to the new year and I have had 2 rejections and 1 acceptance (found in my SPAM folder sent December 14 - how embarrassing). Luckily, they still wanted the piece, and I am ecstatic about that.

So this year, like last year, I have made my next 3-4 year goals and set up a metaphorical All The Good Things Jar in my daily planner. I am also doing the Rejection Competition (join me!) and my rejection cup (100 yen per) for something nice next year.

As a way to reduce my self-induced stress, I have also taken time off from one of my group workshops and hope to reevaluate joining again later. I am also going to make sure that any commitments I make will be manageable and I will learn to say no instead of feeling like I am missing out if I don’t do something.

I’m also NOT setting resolutions but hope to make good choices and be intentional in my life - exercise (running, weights, yoga), finishing my novel, working on graphic narratives (vs my daily doodles, again intention behind what I do, instead of doing stuff just because), play my instruments more, and teach workshops (I have 3 scheduled so far!).

I think this year I just want to not be stressed out about being a writer (like that’s ever going to happen lol) and work on my physical and mental health.

Next week, I hope to have some insight into my submission process as requested by someone in a previous week’s comments. Spoiler Alert: I don’t think it’s anything mind blowing.

Finally, I want to thank the wonderful Amy Marques for including my work “The First Word” in her Duets Anthology! Click the link to get a copy! There are so many amazing writers and Amy’s collage work is amazing!

I hope that the start of your year is going well, and as always, sending love, light, and creativity.