Words Written: whatever I do after I post this
Exercise: none

Good news! I’ve officially sold a story, “Mrs. Claus and the Naughty Elf,” to the Hot Mamas anthology. I’ve considered this a sale for months, because when the editor received the story, she told me it was the best she’d seen so far and it was going directly into her “keep” pile. But there’s always a chance…and it’s not really really a done deal ‘til I sign the contract. Still, I’m happy.

Also, a Sophie story received an honorable mention from another anthology, but alas, it won’t include publication or payment. Nice to know we still rose above the rabble, though.

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It’s going to be a busy week, and I’m already a little anxious, but I’m working on dealing with that. Ken and I had a nice soak in the hot tub tonight under the full moon and talked about what-all we needed to do. I leave early Thursday morning for Canada (two Lawrence concerts to celebrate the anniversary of one of his biggest-selling albums—he’s going to perform the whole thing with an orchestra. Swoon.), so a whole slew of stuff has to be done before I go. I’ve got a story that has to be postmarked Tuesday that I’ve done about 10% of the writing on. I have to read the chapters of Chloe that Teresa sent and have a phone confab with her. I have ABC-CLIO work. I have to pack. And I have to start going to bed earlier and getting up earlier to prepare for the early-morning departure, which means I won’t have my prime energy hours to work in.

Annnnnd…Tuesday is Valentine’s Day! We’re currently planning on a short bike ride and picnic.

There. I’ve made a To Do This Week list (which includes Must Do and Good to Do, the latter being things that could slip until afterwards if need be, but it would be nice to get them done this week), updated my To Do list for the following week, and printed out my packing list. Seems more manageable now. Of course, I also should be in bed already, and I’m just getting my second wind. Dangit!

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So, today was a friends’ daughter’s menarche celebration. Ken and I drove out together, and then he went on to visit his dad, who happens to live about 10 minutes away from our friends. It was a lovely, empowering ceremony and conversation—we talked for several hours, in fact. It’s interesting how many of us had mothers who couldn’t (or wouldn’t) talk to us about menstruation and sex—and so very wonderful that the next generation is being welcomed into womanhood with positiveness, encouragement, and joy.

I’m no poet, but I’m happy with what I wrote for my friend’s daughter—a young woman I also consider to be a friend—and so I’ll leave you with that.

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For E—
on the day of her
First-Moon Celebration

You are strong…
Use your strength wisely
Protect yourself and those you love.

You love…
There is no limit to the love you have
Give it freely but judiciously, without fear or condition.

You are open…
Retain your sense of wonder
See the hidden beauty and magic in the world.

You are creative…
Write, paint, weave, sculpt, dance, sing
Indulge in the arts and share your gifts freely.

You are wise…
Cherish your intelligence
Keep learning and growing and nurturing your mind.

You are beautiful…
Honor and care for your body
But remember that true beauty shines from within.

You are kind…
Spread joy wherever you go
Do this from your heart and it will come back to you again and again.

You are a woman: strong, courageous, beautiful, sexy, kind, giving, wise, open, creative, artistic, sharing, loving, joyous, and powerful. Welcome.

With love & blessings
from Dayle

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What Have I Done Today to Make My Writing Dream Come True? writing
Currently Reading: The Strange Adventures of Rangergirl, Tim Pratt
Lately Listened To: the laughter and conversation of friends
Recently Watched: nothing—no time today