Accomplishments in 2017

What a challenging year...2017! Nevertheless, I accomplished a few of my writing goals:

• Released the print format of Billiard Buddies in February
• Signed a contract for If It Kills Me with Keith Publications in October
• Finished typing in all the scenes (clocked at ~74 hours) from loose sheets and notebooks in November

I'd been pursuing the third goal for a few years, so it felt great finally completing that one. Once again, I'm grateful to the South Jersey Writers' Group for holding a class on making SMART (Smart, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time Limited) goals. I'd used this approach for my day job but had never thought of using it for my writing projects. It worked so well in 2017 that I'm doing it again in 2018.

Looking forward to what I can accomplish next.

Starting out 2018 with a win

On January 18th, the South Jersey Writers' Group awarded me first place in their Poetry Contest. Surprise and gratefulness are two words that come to mind. After experiencing some personal loss, having others appreciate "I Exist. Hear Me" encouraged me in a meaningful way.

I wrote this poem at a time of an internal battle to forge ahead despite all the negative phrases running through my mind...phrases I'd heard over the years from those whose opinions I'd valued.

On January 26th, I had the opportunity to read "I Exist. Hear Me" at the South Jersey Writers Group Open Mic.

My poem will be published on the South Jersey Writers' Group soon, a benefit of winning the competition. I will post here after that happens, so stay tuned.

Thank you South Jersey Writers' Group for your continual support. Check out their blog.