New Year . . . New Me?



New year, new Nan? Probably not. More like new year, same old Nan, which doesn’t have to be a bad thing, right? I’m thinking that instead of making any new resolutions, which I hate doing, frankly, because I always end up breaking them, I’ll simply continue. That sounds very doable. Just keep on keeping on.

I have a book to finish, so I’ll be up each morning early to write. I have this blog and my own blog and I’m thinking that if I can be disciplined enough to write here once a week, surely I can do the same over at www.nanreinhardt.com. Right? Sure. I’m committed to going to the pool a couple of days a week because I’ve discovered over the past few months that I need to be immersed in water regularly to find peace in my soul. 

Husband and I are making this the winter of our content, meaning no big life-changing decisions this winter. Just lots of reading and writing, and thanks to our kids, lots of British television. We’ll do some geocaching on sunny days—something we got back into in the fall with our lake buddies, and take some day trips to taste some wine and check out museums, parks, and other interesting sights in our state. We’re also committed to cleaning out the detritus of 33 years of living in the same house—paring down and simplifying.

I’m hoping to find a publisher for the Women of Willow Bay this year, but if I can’t, I’ll put the next book in the series up on my own. However, I’m not at all sure there will be anymore after this one. I’m ready to try some new things and I really want to find a publisher for any new stories. We’ll see.

As for the rest of the world, well . . . I can only affect my little corner of it, so I’ll continue to pray for peace and for wisdom for our country and our leaders. When I see a chance to effect change, I’ll write my representatives and state my opinion. This year, I’d like to find a volunteer opportunity in the arts—maybe the local public television station could use an editor or someone to seal envelopes. Or the symphony might need ushers . . . anyway, I’ll check into it. I’ll have time with my sister and lunches with my friends—always a blessing. There will be church events to attend and visits to see Grandboy, who is growing up so fast. Liz and I will get away for writing retreats throughout the year. 

The usual joys and sorrows of life will no doubt continue and that’s okay. Life is meant to be lived and even though it’s sometimes messy, everything is story fodder, so it’s all okay.

So talk to me—new year, new you? Or are you like me—just moving ahead in the same old way?

Comments

  1. A good post. I'm glad you're at the peaceful place you've found. See you at lunch!

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    1. I think peace is my only defense after the last year... ;-) See you soon!!

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  2. I think...a little of both actually. I'm in a good zone overall, but that zone is a little comfortable, so I want to step just a little bit out of the comfort zone. Great post, Nan!

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    1. Thanks, Kristi--make it work for you, baby!

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  3. New Year, Same me. Good, bad, or indifferent, I'm going for keeping my head above water!

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    1. That's an admirable goal for a working mom/writer, Ava! Go for it!

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  4. I have seen this pop up several places for this year -goals, not resolutions. That is my focus. I too have a personal blog that I am focused on updating weekly. My last post from 2016 was in September - complaining about the election. This year will be better. Maybe you and Liz should plan a retreat for a small group of writers. I would pay money to hang out with the two of you and soak in your expertise!

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    1. Man, a retreat sounds like a blast, Carolyn! Liz and I will give it some thought--we also provide wine or rum as well as expertise. Just sayin'...

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  5. I posted my yearly goals yesterday, and my monthly ones this morning. I officially went Indie last year, and after seeing what worked and what didn't, it's time to get back to writing, plus finally get a book published that I wrote 2 years ago. Thank you Santa for the nice fat check in my stocking, lol! I can now pay for my cover and editor:)

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    1. Hey, Molly! a nice fat check is a lovely thing to find in your stocking--good for you! Um...editor?? ;-)

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    2. Yes...both my publishers folded, so am trying the self-pubb route. Which means....paying for editor and cover art:)

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  6. I took a break from writing and now I am trying to get back into the game...(you know the park your butt in the chair and sit there until you produce something) - kind of like trying to teach wee little ones how to use the toilet. LOL My husband and I are retired and are trying to find our way...we are currently living in our camper or staying in furnished rentals. In a couple of months we are going to give volunteering for the Army Corp of Engineers a shot. So our goal for 2017 is to keep trying different things and see what's a good fit and of course to get something published and reconnect with the writing world.

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  7. Christine, I love that goal of trying new and different things--looking for a fit. Best of luck to you in the writing and everything else.

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  8. I love the idea of finding ways to affect your little corner. I think that's how change happens, in small increments.

    Great post!

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  9. I think my goals are to keep on keeping on, with maybe a bit of trying new things. I have a tendency to set unrealistic goals (more on that in my post on Saturday) so I'm being modest in my goal setting this year. Maybe I'll surpass my goals for once!

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