Writer, Photographer,

Hello, world! I checked out this site, wordle.net, that makes an artistic representation of the most-used words in any written piece. I plugged in Sweet Tea for Frankenstein, and thought the result was pretty neat! In some ways a muted version of this might’ve made an interesting cover, but oh well.

Full size is here:

As it stands, I did approve the cover this weekend and here it is:

Ok, so I fell off the face of the earth again. The good news is that I haven’t spent that time being idle. So here it is: Life!

Work News:
I’m having a great time working at the school, and was even able to pick up more hours doing the daycare shift. I wouldn’t have expected this, but the job as a yard teacher has provided a great deal of stability, joy, and purpose in my life. I love it and am so glad I’m there. I also picked up another part-time job at the recommendation of a friend and former editing teammate, and will be starting some online university-type editing next month. Jeremy is still looking for full-time work, and we’re hopeful about a few options and interviews that have seemed to go well. Fingers crossed, as always!

Creative News:
I’ve realized something. The something is this: in order to feel consistently happy and fulfilled, I need to be actively doing creative things. I need to make and to do. I feel like this tendency has been on overdrive, where I’ve been itching to do a bunch of stuff all at once. There are a few projects I’m working on involving origami, there’s been a lot more pottery littering up my apartment, and of course Christmastime means crocheting scarves. More than those things though, I’ve been thinking about long-term stuff; what to do with all these pictures I’m taking, and what to do–once and for all–with the novel. I’m making slow but deliberate steps forward with both. I did decide to self-publish Sweet Tea for Frankenstein, and so far I’m not sorry I did it. Yes, I could wait another two years or who knows how long for a traditional publisher/agent to like my work. But why should I do that when my marketing is already in motion? Not to mention, the print publishing world is looking a little bleak these days. Sure, Sarah Palin can get a multi-million dollar book deal at the drop of a hat, but what are the rest of us supposed to do? Publishers aren’t taking risks. The industry is struggling and everyone wants the next “Twilight” on their books (haha). I don’t feel there’s any shame in taking matters into my own hands. I’m ready for this, and so, so excited!

Life Stuff:
Anyway, in the midst of all this noise in my brain I’ve also been feeling very calm. I feel a very real sense of who I am and what my life’s work will involve. I like who I am and I feel good about my convictions and passions. I’ve also been feeling very grateful for the many close, nurturing friendships I’m lucky enough to have. I’m supported and loved so much more than I deserve, and it has made all the difference. This Christmas my heart is warm and I am affirmed and loved by many wonderful people.

Ok, Here’s Some Stuff to Look at:
This past weekend, Jeremy and I drove up north a few hours to visit family and our ex-dog, Winnie. We had a great time relaxing and seeing the sights in the San Luis Obispo area, including Hearst Castle and a crazy amount of butterflies. Enjoy!

The rest of the set can be seen here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/62111440@N00/sets/72157623044739766/

Merry Christmas, everyone!