2024 has been a transformative year, one filled with milestones that have not only honed my craft but also given me confidence in the community. Publishing over a dozen stories online has been a dream come true. Each story, a labor of love, was a step towards refining my voice and connecting with an audience that appreciates the nuances of my storytelling.
The Retro Writers short story group has been a cornerstone in this journey. We have now completed our fourth year together, a testament to our collective commitment and passion. The camaraderie and feedback from this group have been invaluable. It’s a safe space where we can share our raw, unpolished ideas and receive constructive criticism that pushes us to be better. Their insights, encouragement, and camaraderie have been the bedrock of my success. I am profoundly grateful for each member, and I look forward to another year of shared creativity and growth.
Watching my fellow writers grow has been as rewarding as my personal achievements. We have all evolved in our storytelling techniques, narrative structures, and character development. The courage to lay bare our creative processes has fostered an environment of mutual learning and inspiration.
As I look forward to 2025, I carry with me the lessons and experiences of the past year. My goal is to continue pushing boundaries and exploring new genres. There are several projects in the pipeline, first up a collection of my published short stories including a new novella.
All that has given me the courage to follow another dream of mine: I’ve moved to a small island which is a nature preserve in South Carolina. I walk the beach every morning and watch the sun rise, write with a view of an expansive salt marsh, and am meeting new folks with common interests. (That’s me above, at the Pat Conroy Center, attending the inaugural meeting of the local Silent Book Club, one of 1500 chapters in 54 countries.)
I am excited about the possibilities and the journey ahead.
