Blog No. 216
The day has finally arrived. After years of slaving away on this blog, tirelessly writing new posts every week, touting the possible advantage of such an endeavor, Christian “I’m too good for a Schedule” Laforet has committed to regularly scheduled posts on his own blog. It used to have a cool name, now it’s much more practical. Go check out ChristianLaforet.com, his first post is up as I write this, and he may get his second of the year out by then. I’m not sure exactly what to expect. I know it’s not going to be like this blog (where I ramble on about nearly coherent topics each week) so you should just see if it’s for you for yourself.
Beyond that, the weather has been crappy this week. Tuesday in particular was a mess, with snowfall turning into freezing rain, then eventually just super cold rain. It’s the season, so I’m not surprised. I’m more taken aback that the weather hasn’t been worse. But why am I talking about the weather at all. I suppose because it’s a factor in getting all my commitments done. I’ve signed on for quite a few things so far (some that will take me through the year, some that are coming up soon. Writing in general is not really weather dependent. When it comes down to it, I can force myself to write at home. (I did manage to knock off a couple thousand words sitting at my desk to get Pilot done on time). Even if the power goes out, there is nothing stopping me from grabbing a notebook and one of my special pens (sarcasm intended) and scribbling away. I even use a laptop, so I can write for hours with no power. On top of it all, I have printed out chapters of Pilot I haven’t started to edit yet.
Still, when the weather sucks, getting to the myriad events, meetings, and performances is that much more of a slog. And in 2017, I’ve got a bunch. My first event is on the 18th. It’s up on the event page, but I’ll give it to you again because you’re so nice. By the River Poetry and Prose, Jan 18th from 6:30 – 8 pm at Riverside Public Library. That same day I’ll be doing an interview with a local book podcast Hardcover. Shortly after, I’ll be reading at the Goodwill bookstore too. Reading at the Goodwill Bookstore, Jan 21st at The Goodwill Bookstore. It’s going to be a hectic time. On top of it all, I joined the BookFest committee for the year, plus I’m trying to become a writing machine. It’s all very draining. There are other things eating into my time too, but I can’t confidently speak about those things right now, so you’ll have to wonder and wait for some announcement type thing (here on this blog no doubt).
On the other hand, I’m happy to say, my early writing pace is not bad. I managed to get 5000 words in the first week and I’m on track to do the same this week. It helps when the weather is nice and I can go write with my crew, but managing on my own isn’t as daunting as it once was. (Managed to bring it back). I’m managing to knock out more in a sitting too, which helps greatly. It’s a good start that I’m taking advantage of for as long as I can. I try not to anticipate a stumble, but I’d rather be ahead of the game if it happens. This year has started off well, and while things are piling up, I’m doing what I can. Status: Feeling good. I hope to see you at one of the events, also, check out Christian’s Blog and Hardcover (especially if you are local). I’ll see you next week. Hopefully with another big chunk of writing done.
Ben Van Dongen 