Don suggested we take a motorcycle trip on the weekend and it was glorious: four days of hot, sunny weather, wild roads, beach, and barbecue. The campground we stay at–we usually come out every summer–is funky and friendly. But man, did I have to work hard earlier in the week to create the time off for myself! Self employment has its good parts, but some downsides as well.
Things settling down
The role of SFWA secretary promises to be a demanding one, at least for the first few months, but I’m getting a bit more efficient with procedures and routines. Whew! Also, back to the editing job and loving it. Making good progress. And, last night I got a draft of my AFA application done, and it’s not due until September. Looking forward to getting back to the novel, and AFA support would certainly help. Hope third time is the charm.
Rainy day today, and none of my family home. Just the perfect day to get lots of writing done!
Whirlwind week
So, as of Monday, I began my term as SFWA secretary, and it has been a whirlwind week! Not only learning and applying the job, but moving forward with ongoing issues–it’s been busy. However, the board as a whole is thoughtful and careful, moving forward at the greatest speed possible, while being prudent and double-checking every detail. I’m impressed. Confidentiality prevents them from disclosing details, so the silence tends to make people think nothing is happening which is unfortunate, because the dead opposite is true. I’m learning a lot!
Last Novel Class
It was such a delight to teach the year-long novel writing course at the Alexandra Centre this year. Last night was our last class and I’m really going to miss the bi-weekly get-togethers with my students. I won’t miss the students, though, because I am sure I will see them at various writing events in the future. All of them seemed very excited about continuing to write and be part of the writing community.
Screenplay submission almost complete
I am really looking forward to When Words Collide’s upcoming 2-day writers’ workshop with Michael Cassutt. For July 15, I need to have Act I (12-18 pages) of my screenplay done, as well as a synopsis of the rest of the episode. I have been developing an idea for several months, as well as reading up on screenplays (Robert McKee’s brilliant book, Story) and downloading screenwriting software, but it wasn’t coming together to my satisfaction until last Friday when it all came together. After that, it was just a question of writing it. Got the pages and most of the summary done last night. I think it is pretty good. Will need to leave it for a few days and revise–and hopefully make it excellent!