Hello, and happy Sunday, everyone. Just a quick update on where I am with a great many projects.
— The first eBook in the Pocketful of Stories series, Last Stop: Storyville, was published on September 9. You will find it at your usual retailers, and it’s a bargain at 99 cents.
— I’m working on a short story for Detecive & Steam Magazine. It’s called The Axe Man Cometh, and is based in part on a real incident in New Orleans history.
— I attended my first meeting of the Silicon Valley Chapter, Romance Writers of America, yesterday. After the business meeting, there was a workshop entitled “Awakening Your Senses for Writers,” by erotica author Eden Bradley (“The Dark Garden”). We had exercises for each of the five senses, and talked about what words and imagery each of the activities raised for us. This would be a great workshop for authors of any genre, and if you get a chance to take it I think you would benefit.
Likewise, the RWA is not just for romance writers; it’s for writers of any genre who want to improve their craft. So, check out your local chapter and its offerings. I belong to three chapters myself, in addition to the national organization.
— Physically, I’m having ups and downs. My Hashimoto’s seems to be getting worse and the doctor isn’t ready to up the dosage on my medication yet (despite my requests). This is not only based on how I’m feeling, pain levels, etc., but actual lab tests.
However.
A year ago, I had reached the point where the only way I could walk was to use a cane. That’s how bad the pain was. I was looking at Rollators, and wondering how I was going to retain my mobility. In a moment of flat-out desperation, I ordered a pair of G-Defy sneakers, which are not inexpensive … but are marketed with a guarantee to stop foot pain. I can tell you that I’ve experienced about 85 percent relief from my plantar fasciitis and posterior tibial tendinitis, both of which are related to my Hashimoto’s disease, and have been able to start my walking program again. I’ve had a few days in which I’ve broken three miles, but most days I’m able to get to my goal of two miles, and that’s a big change from where I was.
— Don’t forget, I’m doing InDScribe Con in Burbank, October 4-6. There are still seats at my table with author Holly Barbo for the Reader Rave. I hope to see you there.
