I started freelancing again (beyond the one big client I retained while working on Good Girls Don’t Get Fat and Baby Grand).

Those who are loyal readers of my blog (thanks, mom!) know that I was pondering what to do with the rest of my life — go back to freelancing, teach, work on another novel, etc. Well, it looks like I’ve decided to do all three.

After a little sit-down with my husband, who had a little sit-down of his own with our accountant, turns out that if I don’t start cranking out some income-producing writing, I won’t be able to afford some of the wonderful luxuries I currently enjoy, like drinking the premium-brand orange juice that I like, particularly when it’s not on sale. I just finished my first assignment for Newsday in, like, a year and a half, and I have to say I missed it. I missed the adrenaline-pumping stress of being on a tight deadline and having to confirm all those itty-bitty details to make another editor — other than myself — happy. I like working for other editors. It makes me a better editor and writer. And the stories keep me relevant. All good.

And my next “Getting Published” seminar takes place next week — that satisfies the teaching part of the plan, at least for now. I’m looking forward to seeing those enthusiastic writers’ faces in the audience, hopefully even after I tell them about all the work that goes into being published when the writing part is done.

As for Novel #2, “In the Red,” it’s still going, although it’s stalled while I take care of Life Plans #1 and #2. My Accountability Partner probably wants to wring my neck — I’m already five days and counting behind schedule — but I’m not worried. After pumping out 1,000 words a day for six or so weeks on Baby Grand, I see what I can do when I’m focused and motivated. And right now my focus is on staying away from the bargain-brand OJ.