As the year and decade draws to a close, it’s a good time to reflect on what has transpired and look forward to a new year. I suppose that December 31st is much the same as any other day, and yet the idea of renewal and a fresh start is a powerful one, and one that I’m always drawn to.
Looking back on an entire decade is a nearly impossible task. Ten years ago I was pursuing my Masters degree in teaching, student teaching and commuting halfway across the city, out into the suburbs, every day.
In the past ten years I’ve held eight jobs, lived in four different places, visited well over a dozen countries, and written fifteen novels. I’ve had family and friends pass away, and I’ve welcomed a beautiful little girl into my life. I’ve gotten married, but learn almost every day how much I don’t know about relationships. In short, it has been a decade, filled with highs and lows. I’ve come a long ways in the last ten years, and yet it still only feels like a small step in hindsight.
It’s an easier task to look back on the last year. Personally, this past year has been a challenging one – perhaps the most challenging I can remember (although my memory isn’t that great, so take that claim with a grain of salt). Yet, I can’t help but feel that my family and I are stronger at the end of 2019, shaped by challenges, than we were when the year began.
Professionally, it has a solid year. Waterstone Media released three new novels this year – Heart of Defiance and Their Spirit Unbroken in the Relentless series, completing that trilogy, and Nightblade’s End, completing the Blades of the Fallen series. I’m excited that I’ve completed the trilogies and can look forward to other projects, but the plan for 2020 is another post.
Beyond that, the other professional accomplishment of note is that I began my own podcast. The Storied Lives Podcast is a place where I get to indulge in some of my deepest curiosities, examining the role that stories play in our lives. I’ve had the opportunity to sit down and speak with some amazing authors and guests, and I’m even more excited to have more conversations in 2020.
Although I wouldn’t call 2019 an easy year, I find myself grateful at the end of it. I’ve met and talked to wonderful people, traveled, and have definitely grown.
Here’s to an even better 2020!
I just received my copy of Their Spirit Unbroken. So I figure I’m ending the year on a great note. I have enjoyed following your journey through the year and look forward to continuing to travel with you in the next year.
Jim, as always you are too kind. Thank you! And may 2020 be an incredible year for you as well.