MULTI-PART BLOG - part 1

I'm sure that everyone has certain places, things, habits, senses, etc. that they feel drawn to. I'm also certain that everyone wonders why they like some things but not others. Such as those who like lakes but not the ocean or why they like black & white movies but not contemporary movies in 3D and Surround Sound. Well, here are some of the most important things that I like and feel myself drawn to: mountains, forests, caves, the Middle Ages, the Latin Mass, the Mayan culture (especially the city of Copan), athletic competition, respect for all living things, astronomy, and biology. Chew on that and I'll bring in part 2 in a few days.

BACK TO WORK

I had a very busy month so far. I was on vacation and stained the back deck and front porch and had a few other errands to run. On the writing front, I attended another CAPA meeting in which they discussed CAPA's annual book sale at the BIG E, attended my first meeting of a new writers group at Barnes & Noble in Glastonbury, and received a request for a 30-50 page manuscript of 'The Killing Zone' from one of the publishers that I queried. Finally, I attended the first class of a beginner's guitar course at MCC. Although I received my first guitar 35 years ago, I'm still a beginner. That said, I can't play any popular songs, although I did know how to play 'Dust In the Wind'. I do know some chords and do play my own songs. Writing . . . Music . . . Writing . . . Music. Hmmm, I'll take writing.

Submissions

I've been very busy over the past few weeks and will also be occupied over the coming weeks as well. I've mailed approximately a dozen targeted query letters. So far I have received one rejection letter. I've discovered a new publisher that I will submit to by the end of this week and then will dive into my list of agents and publishers to see to whom else I can submit to. I've given myself a deadline. If I do not acquire an agent or publisher who is interested in my work by the end of 2009, then in 2010 I will self-publish 'The Killing Zone'.