Every year, I take a few moments to post here about what the past twelve months have brought, followed by my hopes and goals for the coming year. Starting with a retrospective of 2023: If you want to read my list of goals from January, click here .  How did I do? Well, I met all my writing deadlines. All three books I anticipated releasing did indeed come out on time. I'm still waiting for the print release of Keep Your Family Close, but the digital came out on December 8.  Accounting-wise, I managed to get caught up in time to get my tax stuff to my accountant, AND I'm proud to say, I've done much better with keeping up on the income and expenses this year! In fact, my spreadsheets are done! Most of them, anyway. I still have to compile my mileage, but that's pretty easy.  I also did better with my fitness goals. I'm still not where I'd like to be (and the holidays have done a real number on my workout routine), but I'm definitely improving.  Where I failed...

What a wild rollercoaster ride November was. Losing my friend and agent, Dawn Dowdle was rock bottom. But what's that saying? When one door closes, another opens? I guess it's true.  Earlier this week, I accepted an offer of representation from the amazing Paula Munier of Talcott Notch Literary Services.  Paula asked me some tough questions when we first talked. She made me take a good luck at where I am with my writing career and where I want to go. Stepping out of one's comfort zone is never easy, but life is too short to avoid taking the big chances and shooting for the stars. If nothing else, Dawn's sudden passing taught me that.  Think about it. A new year is coming. What big dream have you been pushing aside for the sake of playing it safe? If you had a chance to do (or write!) what you've always dreamed of, what would that be?