I have always been a busy person. In my younger days, I worked numerous jobs, raised four kids, served as president of the PTO, did volunteer work, planned family reunions, and (more or less) “kept house.” But I always made time to write. I wrote poems, short stories, and novels. My dream was to be a published novelist.
Now, by virtue of my age, I am a Senior Citizen. And my dream has come true. As my peers retire or think about retirement, I am a published novelist, a working writer. While they take up hobbies or relax on their decks or patios, I am busier than ever.
My debut novel (LIKE A RIVER) launched last year, my second (EMPTY PLACES) launched in April of this year. I work tirelessly to promote both of them. I arrange, prepare for, and do school visits, book signings, and speaking engagements. I answer interview questions, select excerpts, and write blog posts.
Finding time to actually write has become more difficult, but I manage. I am working on a new novel and researching possible future ones. Writing and research are work I enjoy, but working against a deadline (whether contractual or self-imposed) is a lot of pressure.
I try to make time to read, and I always find time for my husband and family. Unfortunately, keeping house is one of those good intentions that rarely comes to fruition. But my dream has come true! I am a published novelist.
If I were younger, maybe I’d slow down. But when one is a Senior Citizen, one is more conscious of the “ultimate deadline” that grows closer for all of us each day. I still have a lot I want to do. And I am busier than ever.
