Hello, 2010!

Happy New Year!

Can you believe it's 2010? I can't. While in high school, I was certain this crazy world would implode by 2000. But here we are, and I have to say I'm really looking forward to the next 12 months.

So what's a girl to do with so much optimism? She lists out her 2010 goals.

1. Land an agent
2. Finish editing A Lady’s Revenge by January 31
3. Seek Beta reads for ALR from CPs by February
4. Resubmit ALR to interested agents by March
5. Participate in the GIAM 100 x 100 program, beginning January 1
6. Participate in the February GIAM Tour de Force
7. Develop 2011 RWA workshop with RU blogmates by August
8. Finish Book 1 of Victorian-set series by April 30; finish edits by June 30; Begin querying by July 15; Enter in Golden Heart
9. Attend Margie Lawson’s Immersion class (May)
10. Attend Spring Fling conference (April)
11. Attend RWA National conference (July)
12. Post one entry a week on personal blog
13. Read one book a month for pleasure
14. Read one craft book a month for development

Now, I know my #1 goal is not completely within my control. But I can work hard to achieve it. Having the goal on paper keeps me motivated and focused.

Beta Males: Hidden Gems?

Pop on over to Romance University to see my latest post on Beta males.

Subtext: Adding Hidden Layers to Your Story

Have a lull in the action? Tired of opening presents? Jump over to Romance University to read my article about subtext. I promise it's not as boring as it sounds.

Winter Wonderland in Chicago

Welcome to Chicago. The land of high humidity, dead grass, plunging temperatures, mounds of snow, and ice. Lots of ice today.

The road crews have done an amazing job keeping up with the inch of ice piled on top of three inches of snow. It's beautiful and treacherous. And my boxer/husky mix is wondering what kind of nasty trick we're playing on him as he does the Bambi dance outside our backdoor.

Take a look at these photos...

You can really tell what direction the wind was coming from.

These river birch are straining against the weight

Beautiful, isn't it?

Have a safe and happy holiday, everyone.

Tracey