I have some very good reasons for my extended absence.

True to my NYE resolution, I’ve been engaging in more of the things that made last year pleasurable.

I’ve faithfully completed 1 knitting project per week (I know, we’re only in the 4th week).  I’ve read 7 of the books on my “I really want to read that one day” list.  I’ve spent more time with friends I’ve not seen in a while, and I’ve been exercising regularly.   It’s been relatively easy and if I can do all of that just 11 more times, I’ll have completed a full year. 

But my biggest news;  my novel is now – dare I say it? – finished!  I’m self editing at the moment, and then when it’s just exactly perfect, I will sit on it for a while and decide what I really want to do with it.   It is my baby and I want to protect it like my human children.  A life lived locked in a fire-safe vault seems preferable to being sent out into the world to be abused and rejected.  Thankfully, there is no Novel Protection Service that I need to worry about knocking on my door. 

But who knows?  Maybe when I’m finished polishing she will beg to be set free.  We’ll see.

Also in breaking news – Our home is still for sale.  I began the process kind of ambivalent to a move.  It would be nice, but I’m happy here, too.  And to a large extent, I still feel that way.  Except that I have cut my emotional roots from this house and will not feel a sense of loss when we leave.  I am ready for an adventure….Now if only I had a buyer….