There’s been no post from me this year about new year’s resolutions. I don’t tend to do them anymore. This time last year I was ill, so despite a shaky start to the year, it’s already been an improvement on the last one.
There hasn’t been much writing going on though. I had a break over Christmas, after working hard through November and December on a re-draft of my YA novel. I reached a crucial point in the draft before I ran out of time, but I hadn’t had chance to pick up the story again until just this week.
Getting back into editing and writing
I decided the best thing to do would be to read through what I’d written so far, doing some editing along the way. So technically, that’s writing and it’s getting my head back into the story again. I’m enjoying the process.
I’m also waiting for the proof copy of my middle grade novel.
Things are beginning to really move along with this now. The cover is finished, the illustrations are done and the manuscript has been typeset and proof read. It’s exciting, but scary at the same time. It’s that ‘oh my goodness this is really happening’ feeling.
Blogging hasn’t been at the forefront of my plans this month.
Namely because I spent a couple of weeks trying to get my other blog sorted after it was hacked. This left a bitter taste in my mouth and hasn’t inpsired me to get on and write much on the blogs. Instead, I’ve had moments when I’ve wondered whether to continue at all. Still, I’m going to Manchester at the end of next month as a finalist in the U.K. Allergy Blog Awards, so at least I can tell myself that all the hard work wasn’t for nothing.
Since Christmas, I’ve eaten healthier and enjoyed getting back in to my exercise regime.
I’ve finally moved into my garden office and have been enjoying looking out on to a winter sun drenched garden, home to a family of foxes who come out to play every morning. I feel very lucky to have such a wonderful space I can take myself away to. Writing inspiration? I hope so.
Throughout the Christmas turmoil and subsequent blog-hacking nightmare, I have continued to read.
I’ve been concentrating on authors I know through my various writing communities, namely Emily Organ, Elizabeth Haynes and Rebecca Ann Smith. Reading books written by these authors is hugely inspirational and it brings a fresh does of realism to my own writing. I will be posting the reviews once I finish the book I’m reading.
It’s getting lighter in the mornings and staying lighter for longer in the evenings.
Despite the cold, we’ve been experiencing some beautiful, sunny days. January blues? I think not. I can see spring on the horizon and I’ve already emerged from the post-Christmas, early January fog which had me walking around in a daze. I’m feeling positive about 2017 and what it will bring.
Getting over those early January days can be hard, especially when dealing with a hacked website! But you sound so positive and have a lot of good things happening. Good luck for the awards! I’m sure you’ll let us know?. And I am definitely jealous of that writing desk with such a pretty view! Xx
It was horrible to have the blog messed up like that and annoying because it overshadowed everything else. All sorted now though and no excuse for not getting back into it!
You’ve got so much to be excited about lovely. Best of luck getting the middle grade novel published, bet you can’t wait to hold it in your hands. Love your space too, what a gorgeous place to work 🙂
That is the bit I’m most looking forward to, more than anything else to have the story in print. Can’t wait.
Well done with everything! It’s been incredible to watch everyone go through the process from idea to book. Your space looks amazing. X
I feel like I’ve only just begun and have a lot to learn.
Loving your writing space! Glad to hear you’re getting your writing/blogging mojo back. Good luck at the awards too!
I always struggle to get back into the writing after Christmas. Finding people like yourself an inspiration though!
Great to hear you’re feeling so positive. It’s nice to get back to normality after Christmas even if you did have to deal with hackers on your blog. 🙁
I love the view from your laptop. And you’re right about the days drawing out. I hate to get up in the dark but it’s getting better everyday.
I look forward to hearing progress on your writing.
Oh it’s such a good feeling when you realise the nights are getting shorter. It must be a design of nature to help you get through the worst of the winter.
Great to hear about your plans – you’ve got a lot going on. Looking forward to hearing more about the YA novel. Good luck with the blogging awards too!
Thanks. You never know, this might be the draft that finally works!
You have loads to be positive about. I’m so excited about your book! Good luck with the blogging awards and I’m glad you got that blog hacking sorted out. xx
Me too! Think it’s going to come round quickly though and feels like there’s loads to sort out before then.