I love the promise and possibilities of a new beginning. I like Monday, the first of the month, New Year’s Day, and, after spending my life in school, September. It’s a fresh start, a do-over, a second chance.

Since I began writing and have become very busy again−after a brief 5 years of being retired from teaching−I set goals and make lists. Early Monday morning, I look at what deadlines that are imposed on me and what deadlines I set for myself in order to get everything accomplished without feeling stressed or rushed. I want to enjoy what I do. Some goals are related to writing−copy edits are due to my editor, the video script must be written so we can film it. Others are more personal. I’ve been in training to swim laps again after an 8-year hiatus because of back problems. I mark my calendar with the days I’ll work out in the pool and those when I’ll walk and exercise. So far, it’s working. I’m thrilled to say I’ve been able to swim 4 laps so far. And it feels awesome!!

I’ve experienced lots of new things this year. In January, I signed with a new publisher. After searching for the better part of a year, I was thrilled to become a part of the Level Best Books family. Trust me when I say that the submission process is not for the faint-hearted. I hit the jackpot and have loved working with my editor. I also have a new book out this year after a long and unavoidable delay. I’m buying my first laptop and am launching an updated website. Yay!

In Threshold of Deceit, Olivia embarks on an epic adventure filled with firsts. After 2 months of successful experiments inside their house, she and Steven decide to push the boundaries and take a risk. Olivia time-travels to 1934 and leaves the house for the first time. Every step she takes and everything she does thrills her; some of it scares her.

Steven had forgotten his watch and ran back upstairs to fetch it. Olivia waited on the front porch, sensing she was on the cusp of something epic. The enormity of what she was doing made her a bit light-headed and her heart beat faster from the fear of the unknown. (Threshold of Deceit)

As we begin a new month, I’ll keep making my lists and, like Olivia, maybe take a risk or two trying something new.