The Christmas Address

Number 15, North Pole, three doors down from Santa’s workshop.

Wrong address. Gosh, being drunk is fun! I could gush about single malt whiskey, but my doctor might complain. I should get on with it…

It’s been a while since I wrote anything here. For once, that is because I’ve been working. I’m about 65,000 words into something which looks like it’s going to be finished at some point. Currently, it’s called Sin, but I’m hoping to come up with a better title before it releases. It is going to release. There will be a new book from me. I’m going to say it’ll happen in March, but I’m hoping for February, but don’t quote me on that. I’m also hoping that next year is going to see a number of other books coming out in reasonably swift succession, because I seem to be back in working order. I’m even making graphics again.

I was going to post my first draft of a cover for the next book, but it turns out I haven’t turned it into a JPEG. Doing so would mean turning on my other computer, so you get this one instead. Hopefully, not too disappointing.

Basically, on the 4th of December, my sister and I finally wrapped things up with my father’s estate. It’s all done and dusted. I can’t describe what a relief that was. As things were progressing toward that date, I noticed that I was returning to something akin to normalcy, but it was like a switch flipped on the 4th. I’ve been working my ass off since then, and actually enjoying what I was doing. And in less than two days, I’m going to have my first ever Christmas without either of my parents. (Pause for a sip of whiskey.) I’m still not entirely sure how that is going to pan out. This year has been a proverbial emotional rollercoaster. I will be so happy to see the end of it. So. Happy.

Weird thing. My parents lived in their house for about thirty-five years, give or take. They had the same neighbours for most of that time. Over the last thirteen or so months (and before that to some extent), I’ve gotten to know both of them pretty well. Both of them were enormously helpful to me over the past months, supporting both me and my father. One of them had a stroke a few years ago. She has trouble walking, and she lost the use of one of her arms almost entirely, but her mind is still very functional. As the time for the sale of my father’s house grew closer, I was over there to handle the clearance, and I dropped in to see her for what may well be the last time. We chatted. I guess I was her last link with the two friends who lived next door. She was pretty close to tears when I said goodbye. I have no idea where I’m going with this. It was a sad moment which I guess I just wanted to share with someone.

Anyhoo…

Look forward to the next book. I think it’s not too bad. It’s got sex in it. And a protagonist without much of a filter.

Have a totally fantastic Christmas (or whatever else you may celebrate at this time of year). Have a glorious New Year. Cherish those you hold dear, because there may come a time when you can’t, but don’t forget to cherish yourself too. You’re worth it.

(I’m going to get on with getting drunk now. See you next year.)