So, this entry is going to be a bit of a departure, one that will change the nature of this blog moving forward. When I started it, this blogroll was meant to be a place where I could record my progress towards hopefully becoming a published author, but over the few years I’ve been posting, … Continue reading The Change-Up – August 10, 2021
Blog Posts
Canada Day, 2021
July 1st, Canada Day, 2021. Normally, I’d be celebrating. As an immigrant, Canada Day has always held a special significance, being that it’s the birthday of a country that, to my mind, welcomed my family and I in, and offered us the opportunity to have a much better life than we would have had in … Continue reading Canada Day, 2021
A Distraction at the Edge of Failure – June 30, 2021
It’s creepy quiet. It’s like that in the plant when there is no scheduled production. You’re so used to the louder-than-you-realize background noise of a factory, that when find yourself there with the lights dimmed, few people around and none of the grind, squeal and bang noises of industry at work, it’s unsettling. I’m here … Continue reading A Distraction at the Edge of Failure – June 30, 2021
Groundhog Day, All Over Again – May 24, 2021
For the last six weeks, this has been my daily routine. I get up with my alarm at 9:30 am, in time to see my wife off to work, grab a coffee and then sit in front of my laptop to check my socials and watch YouTube. I’ll usually have a second cup of coffee … Continue reading Groundhog Day, All Over Again – May 24, 2021
A Tightly-Coiled Spring – April 15, 2021
Once again, another blogging promise broken. Apologies. I had intended to make this post a week ago, to let you all know how I was getting on with the work on the Rocinante and my current writing project, but as usual, I kept setting that aside to work on other things until I realized just … Continue reading A Tightly-Coiled Spring – April 15, 2021
The Rocinante’s Home-Coming, Part II – April 5, 2021
Hello, again. I know I said I’d make this post a lot sooner, but, as usual, other things got in the way. When we left off, I had been preparing to drive my newly purchased, 1993 Chevy G20 van, home from St. Thomas, Ontario, after taking the train up to collect her from my friend’s … Continue reading The Rocinante’s Home-Coming, Part II – April 5, 2021
The Rocinante’s Home-Coming, Part 1 – March 12, 2021
So, I did it. All that whining and waxing philosophic about buying a cargo-can, outfitting it as a “Traveler” Wagon, and seeing the country, a-la Steinbeck in “Travels with Charley”, finally drove me to manifest the stupidity of that particular dream. A bit over a week ago, I purchased a well-worn (ha!), 1993 Chevrolet G20 … Continue reading The Rocinante’s Home-Coming, Part 1 – March 12, 2021
The Unexamined Life is Not Worth Living – February 24, 2021
I was re-reading my most recent blog post when I got inspired to write this one. I started this blog page about two years ago as a place to store the daily updates I made during my first Nanowrimo attempt, and to chronicle my effort to write and publish a novel. Somewhere along the way … Continue reading The Unexamined Life is Not Worth Living – February 24, 2021
Pandemic Birthday Party – February 2, 2021
OK. Time for a blog post. Or, more accurately, way past time. My writing hasn’t been going well lately. In fact, it hasn’t been going at all, but I’ll get to that in a bit. It’s been a couple of weeks since my last entry, and I’m hoping that writing a blog post will help … Continue reading Pandemic Birthday Party – February 2, 2021
New Year, Old Me – January 14, 2021
Hello, again, and Happy New Year. I’m starting this New Year off right, as you can see, by once again going several weeks between blog entries, when I promised myself I would post more often. It’s a good thing I didn’t make any other resolutions, as I’d have probably broken those by now, too. I … Continue reading New Year, Old Me – January 14, 2021
All I want for Xmas is … a Cargo Van? – December 23, 2020
Hello, again. It’s been a couple of weeks since my last blog post, and, though nothing really earth-shattering has happened since, I thought I should post an update. I’m trying to get back into the habit of posting at least semi-regularly. It’s been a quiet couple of weeks, which is strange given the time of … Continue reading All I want for Xmas is … a Cargo Van? – December 23, 2020
Hat Trick? – December 4, 2020
Hello, again, and happy December. It’s hard to believe that so much of the year has already passed. A year ago, we were getting ready to go with our kids on our Xmas trip to Cuba, having little inkling that 2020 was going to turn out the way it has. Back then, I was still … Continue reading Hat Trick? – December 4, 2020
And so, a Failure Yet Again – October 31, 2020
This will be my last blog post before NaNo begins in earnest tomorrow. Frankly, I’ll be surprised if I actually do get around to posting this, as things haven’t exactly been going stellarly for me, and I’m finding it very difficult to get motivated to do much of anything, really. I have been putzing about, … Continue reading And so, a Failure Yet Again – October 31, 2020
Mama, Can You Hear Me? – October 15, 2020
So, I had known that quite a bit of time had passed since my last blog post, but I didn’t think it was as much as it’s turned out to be. It’s been just over a month and a half since I made my last update, and after I said I was going to put … Continue reading Mama, Can You Hear Me? – October 15, 2020
Back from the Beyond…August 29, 2020
Yeah. It’s been quite a while now since my last blog post, and after I had said that I’d be making a better effort to keep up with my blog. My bad. Last time I told you about some upcoming changes with my work life that were going to affect me to a significant degree, … Continue reading Back from the Beyond…August 29, 2020
Happy Canada Day – July 1, 2020
Hello, everyone., and Happy Canada Day! It’s been more than a minute since my last blog post, so for those of you that still bother to keep up with reading it, the both of you, I figure it’s past time for an update. I’ve been back to work for nearly a month and a half … Continue reading Happy Canada Day – July 1, 2020
Strange Days, Indeed – June 4, 2020
Hello again, everyone. I figure it’s time I made another blog post, to check in with all of you and let you know I’m still alive. I’ve been back to work after our Corona-virus Isolation for a week and a half now, and though the anxiety I described in my last post that I … Continue reading Strange Days, Indeed – June 4, 2020
Cracks In The Pavement – May 23, 2020
I have to admit something, both to myself and to you. I haven’t been handling things well. I’m not only talking about the past eight or nine weeks of COVID-lockdown, though that is a big part of it. The surreal strangeness, isolation, fear, and anger at those not taking this situation seriously, jeopardizing … Continue reading Cracks In The Pavement – May 23, 2020
Love and Laughter in a Post-Normal World – April 29, 2020
Ok, so, I’ve been lazy, I’ll admit it. It’s been nearly three weeks since my last blog post, and though I’m sure many of us living through this “Great Pause”, I should still try to keep up with my goal of posting regularly. I know we feel like we’re living a real-life version of the … Continue reading Love and Laughter in a Post-Normal World – April 29, 2020
From Armageddon, With Love – April 7, 2020
Today is Day 16 of our quarantine, and to the best of my knowledge, the others still suspect nothing. Morale among the group is still high, though at times, when they think no one is watching, someone will let their guard down for just a moment, revealing the toll the situation is taking on … Continue reading From Armageddon, With Love – April 7, 2020
Postcard from the Apocalypse – March 22, 2020
I always thought that the end of the world would be a lot more fun. So far, it hasn’t exactly been a party, and if some of the more reputable news sources are to be believed, it’s going to get much worse. Like many others, I’ve spent the last week or so flip-flopping between cautious … Continue reading Postcard from the Apocalypse – March 22, 2020
Catching Up for 2020, Pt. IV – March 6, 2020
…Continued from Pt. III… I left off the last part of this (really too long now) blog post by telling you of the problems I was having trying to quit smoking using Champix, and how I went online to try and find out why I was having such bad side effects... Usually, that’s a mistake, … Continue reading Catching Up for 2020, Pt. IV – March 6, 2020
Catching Up for 2020, Pt. III – March 5, 2020
…Continued from Pt. II… I left off the last part of this (now way too long) blog post by describing the anxiety my upcoming 50th birthday was causing me, and what I had decided to do to mark that occasion. I asked my wife and my very good, nerdy friend if they would accompany me … Continue reading Catching Up for 2020, Pt. III – March 5, 2020
Catching Up for 2020, Pt. II – March 4, 2020
…Continued from Pt. 1... I left off the last part of this post with a mention of my impending 50th birthday, and how it was causing me some anxiety. I tried not to dwell on it, but it loomed large in my mind. As you’re probably aware, I’ve had a few health issues I’ve been … Continue reading Catching Up for 2020, Pt. II – March 4, 2020
Catching Up for 2020, Pt. I – March 3, 2020
So, I know it’s been more than a minute since I last updated this blog… it’s been a couple of months, actually, so apologies for those few of you (or those non-existent of you) who have been eagerly waiting 😛 Since this is likely to be a very long entry, I've decided to break … Continue reading Catching Up for 2020, Pt. I – March 3, 2020
Updating… Do Not Turn Off Your Existential Dread – February 13, 2020
Been a minute since my last post. 2020 has been a bit weird so far, so I've been taking some time to regroup and re-work some stuff. Just wanted to drop a note to let you all know that I'm still alive, and yes, I'm still writing. Update soon.
Merry Xmas from Cuba – December 24, 2019
Greetings from Varadero, Cuba So, it’s been a minute since my last blog post, and I figure you’re all chomping at the bit to find out what I’ve been up to since then Right now, I’m looking out at the Caribbean Sea, sitting at a small, seaside patio bar. It’s warm, beautiful, and it’s December … Continue reading Merry Xmas from Cuba – December 24, 2019
All the Brisket – December 6, 2019
Hello again, everyone I figure I should do a post-NaNo update, now that NaNoWriMo 2019 is officially over. As I mentioned in my last blog post, I “won” NaNo again this year, which means I wrote at least 50,000 words towards a new novel in the 30 days of November. So, now I have one … Continue reading All the Brisket – December 6, 2019
Reflections in a Shabby Mirror – November 28, 2019
Hello again, everyone. I figure it’s time for another update, so pardon the intrusion The biggest news I have this week is that I reached 50,000 words in my manuscript and “won” NaNoWriMo ‘19. Yay for me The story isn’t done, of course, 50k words is a bit short for a novel, but I’m confident … Continue reading Reflections in a Shabby Mirror – November 28, 2019
My Own, Private Hermit Kingdom – November 19, 2019
Hello, again everyone. Another week has passed so I thought it might be time for an update post. Not a whole hell of a lot to talk about this time. I’ve been back to work for a week and a half and think I’ve finally settled in again to living like a Vampire (3rd shift). … Continue reading My Own, Private Hermit Kingdom – November 19, 2019
NaNo & Chill – November 11, 2019
Hello, everyone. It’s been nearly a week since my last blog-post, so I figure it’s time to post an update on how my November is going so far. I’d said that this time around, I wasn’t going to bug you, good people, as much as I did during last year’s NaNoWriMo, and … Continue reading NaNo & Chill – November 11, 2019
A Good Start – NaNo Day 4 – November 4, 2019
Hello, everyone 🙂 I know I said I wouldn’t bug you all with daily blog posts like I did last year during NaNo, but I’d at least like to post a weekly update for those of you that are interested. I have, so far at least, been posting short daily updates on my progress, so … Continue reading A Good Start – NaNo Day 4 – November 4, 2019
Happy Stressful Halloween… Let the NaNo Panic Commence – Oct. 31, 2019
Hello, everyone. Just a quick update, as I don’t have time for much else. It’s Halloween, the day before NaNoWriMo begins, and the start of Youmacon. I’m incredibly stressed and under pressure. I’m still working on cosplay for Youmacon on Saturday, and though it’s going well, I’m still feeling the crunch to get two … Continue reading Happy Stressful Halloween… Let the NaNo Panic Commence – Oct. 31, 2019
Trying to Find Motivation – October 25, 2019
Hello, everyone, So, it’s been a minute since my last blog post. Not unusual, but in my defense, I have been extremely busy. Again, not unusual. I’ve been spending a lot of time lately getting things ready for winter, as well as working on some cosplay projects for Youmacon, an Anime and Japanese Pop-Culture … Continue reading Trying to Find Motivation – October 25, 2019
Catching Up, and An Appeal – October 2, 2019
Hello, everyone 🙂 Yesterday was October 1st, officially one month before the start of NaNoWriMo. I had a lot planned for the day, but unfortunately, I caught a really nasty cold/flu that kicked my ass to the point where I had to call in sick to work. I spent most of yesterday wrapped … Continue reading Catching Up, and An Appeal – October 2, 2019
A New Approach -September 24, 2019
Hello, again, everyone. It’s been a bit longer than I had planned since my last blog post. I really have to get used to doing these regularly again. I haven’t had a horrible week, all things considered, but as usual, I haven’t accomplished nearly as much as I had hoped to. That’s not to say … Continue reading A New Approach -September 24, 2019
Maintaining -September 17, 2019
So, once again it’s been far too long since I made my last blog post, not that there’s much to tell, but I did want to start posting these on a more regular basis. I’ve been kind of wrapped up with projects around the house, and we had some company over the weekend, so … Continue reading Maintaining -September 17, 2019
Learning Curve – September 4, 2019
Hello, again. Time for my (not very) regular blog update 😉 It’s been a busy week and a half since my last post. Had some fun, did some work, but not always the work I should have been doing. I spent the better part of the week after our get-together putting the house … Continue reading Learning Curve – September 4, 2019
Preparing for Battle – August 28, 2019
Hello, again. So much for my attempt to make these posts on a bit more regular of a schedule 😛 Last I left off, we had just gotten back from the Rob Zombie/Marylin Manson concert and I was getting ready to go to Cleveland for the Alice in Chains/Korn show. A very … Continue reading Preparing for Battle – August 28, 2019
Back At It – August 15, 2019
Hello, again 🙂 I’m trying to get back to making these posts on a regular basis, more for myself than for you, faithful reader. I’ve found that keeping a writing blog or journal helps me to process all of the events going on in my life, and helps to keep me on track and accountable with … Continue reading Back At It – August 15, 2019
Return of the Phantom Stranger – July 31, 2019
Hello, again. It’s been a really long time, I know, but I have an explanation. I’ve disappeared for long stretches of time before, but this time it’s different. I haven’t been quiet because I’ve been depressed, or frustrated, or burnt out. This time I took a break from posting my progress on social media and … Continue reading Return of the Phantom Stranger – July 31, 2019
Back from the Upsidedown – July 9, 2019
So, it’s been a while since I’ve updated this blog. Life got a little messy, as it sometimes can, and things got away from me a bit. I’ve continued writing, though. Not in the volume or with the consistency as before, but I have been keeping up with it. The novel is still inching along. … Continue reading Back from the Upsidedown – July 9, 2019
Hitting Re-set… Update coming soon….
Hi. I've been gone a while, I know, but I haven't stopped. I've just had to hit Re-Set on a few things. Had to take some time to get my head together, to deal with some issues. I'm ready to get back up again, though. Blog posts coming soon. -Just Me
I’m Blue, Da Da Dee – June 14, 2019
Ok, so this one is really late. It’s getting to be a thing with me… It hasn’t exactly been a great few days, though I can’t give a specific reason why. I guess for no reason I can really figure, I’ve gone into one of my blue moods again, and that’s derailed all of … Continue reading I’m Blue, Da Da Dee – June 14, 2019
ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #21 – June 12, 2019
Well, it hasn’t exactly been a great few days, though I can’t give a specific reason why. I guess for no reason I can really figure, I’ve gone into one of my blue moods again, and that’s derailed all of my plans for this week. This post is, obviously, and predictably late, btw. I’m not … Continue reading ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #21 – June 12, 2019
ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #20 – June 9, 2019
Again, a day late. It’s getting to be a thing with me… I kinda blew everything else off this past weekend in order to work on the greenhouse and to edit my submission for my upcoming writer’s meeting. The greenhouse is coming along well, the writing not so much. Actually, other than what I’ve had … Continue reading ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #20 – June 9, 2019
ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #19 – June 5, 2019
Continuing my tradition of posting these a day late… 🙂 Things have been relatively quiet since my last Check-In, (which was also late) so there isn’t too much to report. I’m still obsessed with the greenhouse build, and though it’s inching towards completion, it’s taking up most of my free time and putting me further … Continue reading ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #19 – June 5, 2019
Leveling Out, but Procrastinating -June 4, 2019
Hey, everyone. Still here 🙂 There isn’t a hell of a lot to report this week. The greenhouse project has apparently taken over my life. It’s become a bit of an obsession. The weather has been decent enough since the last post that I’ve been spending all of my free time trying … Continue reading Leveling Out, but Procrastinating -June 4, 2019
ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #18 – June 2, 2019
A day late, again The greenhouse project has apparently taken over my life. It’s become a bit of an obsession. The weather has been decent enough since the last Check-In that I’ve been spending all of my free time trying to get it finished, which means that I haven’t set much time aside to write. … Continue reading ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #18 – June 2, 2019
Getting a Move On – May 30, 2019
Alright, a bit late, but still… time for another blog post. Progress on the novel isn’t going as quickly as I would like. I spent a lot of time this past week working on my greenhouse and trying to zen out, and I had Movement all of Saturday, (and then Movement Recovery all of … Continue reading Getting a Move On – May 30, 2019
ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #17 – May 29, 2019
As usual, a day late. My last Check-In post was, you guessed it, late, so there isn’t too much to report between then and now. I’ve put in as much work as I could into the greenhouse when the weather’s allowed, and it’s finally getting near the point where I can start fixing up the … Continue reading ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #17 – May 29, 2019
ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #16 – May 27, 2019
Late again 😦 Not too much to report since my last Check-In. My last Check-In was a few days late, so progress on the novel isn’t as much as I would have liked. I spent a lot of time these past few days working on my greenhouse and trying to zen out, and I had … Continue reading ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #16 – May 27, 2019
ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #12 – 15 – May 22, 2019
Hi. Yeah, I know, it’s been a while, but I’m still here, though I haven’t been as loud as I usually am. I haven’t made a ROW80 Check-In post in about two weeks. First off, yes, I’m still writing, though not as much as I would like to. Nearly two weeks ago, I had … Continue reading ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #12 – 15 – May 22, 2019
Getting Up Again, Part II – May 21, 2019
… continued… So, I last left off telling you all about the incident that kind of derailed my last couple of weeks, and that I’ve started building a greenhouse. Besides that, my last two weeks haven’t been very bad. As I said, the event I had mentioned went reasonably well, without any of the drama … Continue reading Getting Up Again, Part II – May 21, 2019
Getting Up Again – May 20, 2019
Hi. Yeah, I know, it’s been a while, but I’m still here, though I haven’t been as loud as I usually am. It’s been a rough couple of weeks. This may be a multi-parter, so I’ll try not to make it too long. First off, yes, I’m still writing, though not … Continue reading Getting Up Again – May 20, 2019
ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #11 – May 8, 2019
Trying to get back to posting these on time. 🙂 Nothing much new to report since the last Check-In. It’s been a pretty mundane week so far. I’ve done a little more work on my greenhouse project, shoring up the base frame and starting on some decorative corner braces. I hope to start building the … Continue reading ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #11 – May 8, 2019
ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #10 – May 5, 2019
A day late, again 😦 It’s been a busy week, but thankfully a rather relaxing one, to tell the truth. The week was rainy for the most part, so I ended up hermiting quite a bit. I did get caught up on my writing until the weekend came along, but I have to admit I … Continue reading ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #10 – May 5, 2019
Diggin’ in the Dirt – May 5, 2019
All right, kiddies, it’s time again for everyone’s favourite weekly annoyance… Uncle Rob’s Insanely Boring Blog Update 🙂 You’re welcome. It’s been a busy week, but thankfully a rather relaxing one, to tell the truth. The week was rainy for the most part, so I ended up hermiting quite a bit. I did get caught … Continue reading Diggin’ in the Dirt – May 5, 2019
ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #9 – May 1, 2019
I’m trying to get back to making these ROW80 posts on time. Today is a pleasant surprise, lol. Not much to report since my last Check-In, other than the results of my writer’s group meeting. As I said last Check-In, I had decided to submit the first 2000+ words of my current work for critique … Continue reading ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #9 – May 1, 2019
ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #8 – April 28, 2019
A day late again. Sorry. The last few days have been quite busy. I’ve had several projects on the go that I needed to finish, which all took away from my writing time. A cousin of mine had asked me to make a very unique cake/cupcake stand for her sister-in-law’s wedding reception. It’s an outdoor … Continue reading ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #8 – April 28, 2019
I’m a Lumberjack and I’m OK -April 28, 2019
Ok, time for another update. This week’s been a bit busy. I’ve had several projects on the go that I needed to finish, which all took away from my writing time. A cousin of mine had asked me to make a very unique cake/cupcake stand for her sister-in-law’s wedding reception. It’s an outdoor reception, with … Continue reading I’m a Lumberjack and I’m OK -April 28, 2019
ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #7 – April 24, 2019
Alright, this one is REALLY late, but I do have an excuse, as I always do. I’ve had a tonne of other projects I’ve had to get done this week, most of them for other people, so I didn’t get much chance to make my ROW Check-In post. Sorry. Like I said, this week has … Continue reading ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #7 – April 24, 2019
ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #6 – April 21, 2019
As usual, a late post. You’re welcome. I’m starting to feel that 2019 is the year that the Universe forces me to make the changes in my life that I need to, but might not want to. I’ve never believed in that kind of thing. I’m an atheist and automatically buck at the thought … Continue reading ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #6 – April 21, 2019
420 AND Chocolate Bunnies? Makes sense – April 22, 2019
As usual, a late post. You’re welcome. I’m starting to feel that 2019 is the year that the Universe forces me to make the changes in my life that I need to, but might not want to. I’ve never believed in that kind of thing. I’m an atheist and automatically buck at the thought that … Continue reading 420 AND Chocolate Bunnies? Makes sense – April 22, 2019
ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #5 – April 17, 2019
It’s only been a couple of days since my last Check-in, which was already a day late, so there really isn’t all that much to report. As usual, I’m struggling a bit to get back in the groove of returning to work and living like a vampire again. It seems to get harder and harder … Continue reading ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #5 – April 17, 2019
ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #4 – April 14, 2019
I’ve been trying to get back on track to making these posts on time, but this weekend was a special circumstance, so once again, a late post. The last few days haven’t been too bad, all things considered. Yesterday and today were reserved mostly for family, as we had to deal with the passing of … Continue reading ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #4 – April 14, 2019
A Quiet Weekend – April 15, 2019
I’ve been trying to get back on track to making these posts on time, but this weekend was a special circumstance, so once again, a late post. The last few days haven’t been too bad, all things considered. Yesterday and today were reserved mostly for family, as we had to deal … Continue reading A Quiet Weekend – April 15, 2019
ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #3 – April 10, 2019
It’s been a pretty quiet few days since the last Check-In, which I’m thankful for and hope is a sign of things to come. The only bad news this week came today when my wife found out her uncle had passed away. He was in his mid-80’s and died in his garden. He had … Continue reading ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #3 – April 10, 2019
ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #2 – April 7, 2019
So, trying to get back to making these posts on time. This week hasn’t been bad, especially considering how the few weeks before went. There was no new bad news to worry about, so that gave me a chance to breathe a bit and process everything from the last little while. I … Continue reading ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #2 – April 7, 2019
Interlude – April 7, 2019
So, trying to get back to making these posts on time (I was posting on Fridays, but that seemed to get later and later). This week hasn’t been bad, especially considering how the few weeks before went. There was no new bad news to worry about, so that gave me a chance to breathe … Continue reading Interlude – April 7, 2019
ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #1 – April 3, 2019
As usual, this post is late, but only by a couple of hours. Also, as usual, it’s been a shitty week. This is the first Check-In post of the 2nd Round of this year's ROW80 Challenge. I didn’t finish the last Round as well as I had hoped. I only managed to achieve One of the Four goals I set out, … Continue reading ROW80, Round 2 Check-In #1 – April 3, 2019
Farewell to the Vampire – April 3, 2019
As usual, this post is several days late. Also, as usual, it’s been a shitty week. Those of you who are local to me have probably heard the news by now that my workplace has decided to eliminate a third of its workforce. It won’t affect me much, other than I’ll have to switch … Continue reading Farewell to the Vampire – April 3, 2019
ROW80 – Round 2 – April 1, 2019
So, extra late this time. I didn’t finish the last Round as well as I had hoped. I only managed to achieve One of the Four goals I set out, and that was the easiest of the four to accomplish. I’m hoping I do better this Round. For this Round, I’m adding in a … Continue reading ROW80 – Round 2 – April 1, 2019
Zero-Fucks Weekend – March 25, 2019
So, this blog post is late again, which I’m sure by now is something you’re all used to. My update this time is neither good nor bad, it just is. I was calling this past weekend my “Breakdown Weekend”, but that has a lot of negativity attached to it, so I’ve switched to calling it … Continue reading Zero-Fucks Weekend – March 25, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #23 – Last of the Round – March 20, 2019
Well, this is it, the end of the Round. This is the first time I've participated in the ROW80 challenge, and one thing I have learned from the experience is that I tend to set my goals may be a bit too high. I only managed to accomplish one of my goals, arguably the … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #23 – Last of the Round – March 20, 2019
Decisions, Decisions – March 18, 2019
I‘m starting to feel like the White Rabbit in Alice In Wonderland - always late... Just a quick update to try and catch up. This week hasn’t been great, but I’m trying to be pragmatic about the whole thing. I think it’s been a wakeup call, telling me I need to get my priorities straight … Continue reading Decisions, Decisions – March 18, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #22 – March 17, 2019
I‘m starting to feel like the White Rabbit in Alice In Wonderland - always late.. Just a quick update to try and catch up. This week hasn’t been great, but I’m trying to be pragmatic about the whole thing. I think it’s been a wakeup call, telling me I need to get my priorities straight … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #22 – March 17, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #20 – March 10, 2019
Late post is late, again. I know this is getting to be a common refrain with me, but the last week or so has been both good and rough. My life seems to have turned into a constant roller-coaster ride lately, one that I can't get off of. The week started great. … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #20 – March 10, 2019
Can I get off this ride, please? – March 12, 2019
Late post is late, again. I know this is getting to be a common refrain with me, but the last week or so has been both good and rough. My life seems to have turned into a constant roller-coaster ride lately, one that I can't get off of. The week started great. I … Continue reading Can I get off this ride, please? – March 12, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #19 – March 6, 2019
Continuing on my downward spiral of broken or delayed commitments, this post is again, way late. Apologies. And again, I’ve continued to be very lax in reading and responding to other’s blog posts, which, once again, I apologize for. Morpheus, it seems, is refusing to visit me as often as I require. I’m very low … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #19 – March 6, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #18 – March 3, 2019
Ok, so I guess I’ve totally blown my commitment to try and make these posts on time. This one is extra late. I've also been very lax in reading and responding to other's blog posts, which I apologize for. My only excuse is that I've not been sleeping well, and have been feeling a bit … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #18 – March 3, 2019
The Latest Stumble -March 5, 2019
Ok, so I guess I’ve totally blown my commitment to try and make these posts on time. This one is extra late. I haven’t had a great few days as far as the writing is going. While I did hit my 1000 words per day goal more often than not, I totally blew off the … Continue reading The Latest Stumble -March 5, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #17 – February 27, 2019
I’m trying to get back to posting these on time again. I’ve been back to work for a few days now, and I think I’m finally getting back into the grove of a regular routine. I’m trying to catch up on all of the sleep I missed last week, and being back on my usual … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #17 – February 27, 2019
Manic/Panic – February 25, 2019
Late again. It’s been a very rough week. I’m not sure if it’s the time of year or the unexpected, week-long layoff from work, but I’ve really been “off” lately. I’ve been incredibly sleep deprived, getting only about 4 hours of sleep at a stretch, and up early no matter what time I went to … Continue reading Manic/Panic – February 25, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #16 – February 24, 2019
Late again. It’s been a very rough week. I’m not sure if it’s the time of year or the unexpected, week-long layoff from work, but I’ve really been “off” lately. I’ve been incredibly sleep deprived, getting only about 4 hours of sleep at a stretch, and up early no matter what time I went to … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #16 – February 24, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #15 – February 20, 2019
Another post a couple hours late 🙂 This layoff week has really messed with my schedule. I‘ve had a good few days. I spent a good deal of this week in my workshop, organizing it and building some fun woodworking jigs and accessories that will (and already have) come in very handy. I’m hoping that … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #15 – February 20, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #14 – February 17, 2019
So, I have been trying to make these posts on time, lol, but I guess I’m only a few hours late, so here we go. All in all, the last few days weren‘t too bad, especially after last weekend. I’m managing to get the car situation sorted out, and I think … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #14 – February 17, 2019
A Day In The Workshop!!! – February 17, 2019
So, keeping up with my habit of making these posts a few days late, here we go. All in all, it wasn’t too bad of a week, especially after last weekend. I’m managing to get the car situation sorted out, and I think Carmageddon is just about half over. Only a few more things to … Continue reading A Day In The Workshop!!! – February 17, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #13 – February 13, 2019
So, I‘m trying to get back to making these posts on time, lol. It’s only been a couple of days since my last post, so other than some real life stuff, not much has happened. The car repairs are going… well, going. I should have my main vehicle back tomorrow, and then my second … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #13 – February 13, 2019
You Can Pick Your Friends, but Not Your Family – February 11, 2019
Well, it seems I‘m having a hard time making these posts on time, so here‘s another late one 🙂 It’s been a rough few days. The week started out well, though I was and still am battling a stubborn head cold. I managed to keep up with my writing goals for the most … Continue reading You Can Pick Your Friends, but Not Your Family – February 11, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #12 – February 10, 2019
Sorry, this post is a day late, again. It’s been a rough few days. It started out well, though I was and still am battling a stubborn head cold. I managed to keep up with my writing goals for the most part, got to spend some time with good friends, and did a little … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #12 – February 10, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #11 – February 6, 2019
Not too much more to report from the last Check-In. That one was late, so it’s only been a couple of days. I think I’m getting a head cold, so not really motivated to make a long blog post here. So, here’s the Check-In Goals breakdown… Goal #1 – Finish my First Draft I’ve written … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #11 – February 6, 2019
Fear and Loathing in Columbus – February 5, 2019
Another week, another REALLY late post. Sorry, everyone, we got in from Columbus, Ohio pretty late Sunday, and I had to work Sunday night, so this is the first chance I’ve had to sit down and write this post. We spent the weekend visiting friends in Columbus and had a great time, but needless … Continue reading Fear and Loathing in Columbus – February 5, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #10 – February 3, 2019
Sorry, this post is a day late, but we got in from Columbus, Ohio pretty late yesterday, and I had to work last night, so I just couldn’t get myself motivated to make this post until today. We spent the weekend visiting friends in Columbus and had a great time, but needless to say, I … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #10 – February 3, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #9 – January 30, 2019
I’ve had a really crappy day today, so apologies if that taints this post at all. While I have managed to be productive for the most part since the last Check-In, I’ve been dealing with a bit of “Imposter Syndrome” lately, which has got me down some. Part of me is worried that I’m … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #9 – January 30, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #8 – January 27, 2019
So, I managed to shake the case of the blues I had last weekend, and seem to have myself back on track for the most part. I did slack off a bit because this was my birthday weekend, so I took a little extra time to celebrate and to deal with the inevitable … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #8 – January 27, 2019
Birthday Weekend – January 27, 2019
Another week, another late update post 🙂 This update is even later than usual; I slacked off a bit because this was my birthday weekend, so I took a little extra time to celebrate and to deal with the inevitable blues that comes with realizing that you’re another year closer to death. In all, it … Continue reading Birthday Weekend – January 27, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #7 – January 23, 2019
Following the setback I described in the last Check-In, I’ve worked really hard trying to get myself back on track. I think I’m getting back into the groove at work schedule-wise, but of course, the company has just announced another layoff week in mid-February. At least I’ll have another week of being able to put … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #7 – January 23, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #6 – January 20, 2019
Lost Weekend This one is a tough one to write. It's been a rough few days as far as my ROW80 goals go; my motivation was de-railed since the last check-in and I haven't managed to bring it back on track. This past week I went back to work after an extended holiday/layoff … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #6 – January 20, 2019
January is Blue – January 19, 2019
Happy Saturday, everyone. For those of you who are still following me on my quest to write a novel, here’s my (late, again) weekly progress break-down. This past week I went back to work after an extended holiday/layoff period. It’s always a tough adjustment going from living like a normal person back to living like … Continue reading January is Blue – January 19, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #5 – January 16, 2019
It's been a hectic day with trying to fit in everything I've had to do so this one will be short. I'm still working on my kitchen cabinet doors, which are coming along, and I'm still working on my ROW80 goals, so I haven't slacked off, but it's been a bit of a struggle … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #5 – January 16, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #4 – January 13, 2019
It’s been another busy few days, and though I’ve managed to work on my ROW80 goals, I haven’t gotten as far with them as I had hoped. A couple of days ago, I was gifted a couple of big items by someone who just wanted them out of her basement. I got them … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #4 – January 13, 2019
Bells, Buzzers and Distractions – January 12, 2019
So, another late update 🙂 This weekend, my writing got derailed a bit, for reasons I’ll get into further on. This has been my last week of downtime from work (so far), so I was hoping to get a lot more done before I have to go back to work on Monday (Sunday night … Continue reading Bells, Buzzers and Distractions – January 12, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #3 – January 9, 2019
It's been a busy week, mostly because I've been trying to finish the cabinet doors for my kitchen. So, how am I doing with my ROW80 goals? I'm glad you asked. Even though I've been busy with other projects and responsibilities, I've still managed to keep up with my goals. Here's the breakdown... Goal #1 … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #3 – January 9, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #2 – January 6, 2019
Week 1 of this round of ROW80 has come to an end, so it’s time for a progress update. It’s been a busy week, full of end/beginning of the year celebrations, Dungeons & Dragons marathons, and woodworking. Though I was still off of work this past week, all of the above cut into my … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #2 – January 6, 2019
More Dragon Slaying – January 5, 2019
Ok, another late post, but it was a long, though fun, day. It was a bit of a busy week, as it usually is for me. We spent a quiet New Year’s Eve at home, watching Netflix and then watching the ball drop. We went out last NYE, so we decided to stay … Continue reading More Dragon Slaying – January 5, 2019
ROW80 Check-In #1 – January 2, 2019
So, the first Check-In day of this ROW80 challenge has arrived, and it's time for me to post my progress so far. There hasn't been a lot - it's only day two, after all. Goal #1 - Finish My First Draft Since beginning this Challenge, I've written about 2800 more words towards my goal. I'd … Continue reading ROW80 Check-In #1 – January 2, 2019
ROW80 – December 31, 2018
While browsing through some of my writing-based Facebook groups last night, I stumbled on the page for another writing challenge that I’ve decided to participate in. It’s called A Round Of Words In 80 Days, and unlike NaNoWriMo, it’s not a word-count based challenge. For ROW80, you set various writing-related goals, which you’re to accomplish … Continue reading ROW80 – December 31, 2018
Post-Xmas Bloat – December 29, 2018
So, friends, once again it's time for a writing update. This week has, of course, been busy. It was difficult to find the time to write with all of the holiday stuff going on, but I did manage to squeeze some in. We spent Xmas Eve with my mom out in the county, and then … Continue reading Post-Xmas Bloat – December 29, 2018
Sleep Deprived but Still Alive – December 22, 2018
This post is a day late, so sorry to all of you expectantly sitting on your hands waiting for it 😉 This week has run me ragged, and I’ve been paying for that these last few days. Running around trying to find the perfect Xmas gifts for everyone on my list took it’s … Continue reading Sleep Deprived but Still Alive – December 22, 2018
It’s Beginning to Look Alot Like…Meh – December 14, 2018
Well, another week has passed, so I figure it’s time for an update. While it’s been difficult, and slower going than before, I have managed to keep up with my goal of writing a minimum of one thousand words a day. Though things are moving forward, it’s obviously not going as quickly as it was … Continue reading It’s Beginning to Look Alot Like…Meh – December 14, 2018
Up and Down, like the market – December 8, 2018
All right, friends, this has been a shit week, and I’m sure you’re all very eagar to hear all about it. So, NaNo ended exactly one week ago. And I won. Yay. To get this part out of the way, I did keep up with my promise, and have written at least 1000 words a … Continue reading Up and Down, like the market – December 8, 2018
The End of the Beginning – November 30, 2018
So, friends, last week I promised you all that I wouldn't bug you about my silly "writing experiment" for at least another week. Well, a week has passed, and I'm sure you're all chomping at your respective bits, waiting to hear how I've been faring. Don't lie, I know you have. As you may recall, … Continue reading The End of the Beginning – November 30, 2018
Celebrating – November 23, 2018
An appropriate place for a celebratory pint (or three) to commemorate my NaNo Victory
Victory Lap – November 23, 2018
If you saw my post last night, and how could you help but see it as obnoxious as it was, then you already know that yesterday I finally crossed the 50,000 word threshold in my novel attempt, and officially “Won” NaNoWriMo 2018. I did it a week early, which is an accomplishment in itself, considering … Continue reading Victory Lap – November 23, 2018
I Did A Thing!!! – November 22, 2018
So, everybody, I did a thing. I'll probably have more to say on this tomorrow, after I've had a bit of time to process it, but tonight, I passed the 50,000 word mark and officially "Won" NaNoWriMo. I'm going to take some time to contemplate the meaning, and the meaninglessness of this achievement. … Continue reading I Did A Thing!!! – November 22, 2018
50,003! – November 22, 2018
Notebook – November 22, 2018
Bought this notebook back in late September when I first decided to do NaNo. I write in it at work. Finished filling it up tonight.
A Quick Update – November 21, 2018
Just a quick update post today... It was a very busy day, and I got a late start, so not my best writing day. I did pass the minimum 1667, but didn't break 2000 for the day. Did crack the 45,000 mark, though, so 90% there Hoping to make up for it tomorrow. Still on … Continue reading A Quick Update – November 21, 2018
What Happens After? – November 20, 2018
Had another decent day of writing today; I seem to be out of the funk that had me down this past weekend. Got some stuff done around the house, too, which is also good. What's preoccupying me lately is... "What happens after NaNo?" In all likelihood, I'll hit 50,000 words some time on Friday, so … Continue reading What Happens After? – November 20, 2018
A Bit Better – November 19, 2018
Today went a bit better than yesterday... I had to forego watching Doctor Who last night in order to try and catch up on some sleep before work, so I think that may have helped. I managed to get 1200+ words in after work this morning before going to bed, and finished up this afternoon … Continue reading A Bit Better – November 19, 2018
Roller Coaster Weekend – November 18, 2018
So, I'm calling it on the writing for tonight. For some reason, this weekend hasn't been the best for getting the words down. It's been an up and down weekend... I had a great time Friday night with Drunk D&D, had a really good night Saturday night just staying home and watching documentaries on Netfix, … Continue reading Roller Coaster Weekend – November 18, 2018
Not a Great Day – November 17, 2018
Didn't have a great day today. I was up at stupid o'clock again this morning, and couldn't get back to sleep. I think I only got about four and a half hours. Because of that, I really didn't feel well all day, but I still managed to get some small things done around the house... … Continue reading Not a Great Day – November 17, 2018
Drunk D&D – November 16, 2018
Tonight is Drunk D&D at one of my favourite local hangouts, Villain's Beastro. A bunch of us get together to play Dungeons & Dragons, in a bar... which is both awesome and dangerous Since I'm out tonight geeking it up, I wanted to get my writing in early, though I also got some work … Continue reading Drunk D&D – November 16, 2018
Maintaining Momentum – November 15, 2018
Had a really good day today... we had plans to meet some friends for dinner... it's a group of friends we get together with every month, and I usually take the night off so I won't be rushed to get to work and can hang out for the entire night. We had a great time … Continue reading Maintaining Momentum – November 15, 2018
A Decent Day – November 14, 2018
Had a decent day today... got to do a little work in my woodshop after getting up, and had a good writing day to boot. I am getting a bit concerned about how much longer this project will take beyond the end of NaNo, though. 50,000 words is not going to be near enough to … Continue reading A Decent Day – November 14, 2018
Wife’s Birthday – November 13, 2018
Today was my wife's birthday, so we had plans to go out for dinner and celebrate. We had a nice meal with the kids. Because of that, I didn't have much time to get anything done around the house, and I did want to make up for lost time with my writing the last few … Continue reading Wife’s Birthday – November 13, 2018
A Rough Go… Again – November 12, 2018
Today was a rough go, I'll be honest. I think I burnt myself out over the weekend with all of the running around and late nights. I couldn't get motivated to do much more than a few odds and ends today. The writing suffered too, it was a real slog. I only just passed the … Continue reading A Rough Go… Again – November 12, 2018
Thank You for your Service – November 11, 2018
I'd like to start off tonight saying Thank You to our Veterans. It's Remembrance Day here in Canada, so stating that here is the very least I can do, and I hope all of you remembered to take a minute to reflect on all they sacrificed for the rest of us. Today, I took a … Continue reading Thank You for your Service – November 11, 2018
A Hefty Goal – November 10, 2018
Got a lot done around the house today, despite being up at stupid o'clock this morning. Finished up a few things that needed doing, and also got to put some time in cleaning and working in my woodshop. I had set quite a hefty goal for my writing today, since I had the day off … Continue reading A Hefty Goal – November 10, 2018
Time Lord – November 9, 2018
Happy Friday, everyone. I'm lucky enough (thanks to our Veterans and my Union) to have a long weekend, so I'm anticipating getting quite a bit done around the house and still having time to get some relaxation in. Plus, more time to write. I had a bit of running around to do today, so … Continue reading Time Lord – November 9, 2018
Flaking – November 8, 2018
Today I flaked a bit on all my other responsibilities to take a writing day. They held another "Write In" at the local University, and even though I didn't have the best of times at the one I went to last week, I decided to give it another shot, so I went. Before I left, … Continue reading Flaking – November 8, 2018
Another Slog – November 7, 2018
So, today was a bit of a slog when it came to my writing... real world thoughts kept intruding, which made it difficult to plow through it. I managed it though. Still finishing up some odds and ends outside. I'm hoping that by the end of the weekend, the house will finally be winterized. One … Continue reading Another Slog – November 7, 2018
A Windy Day – November 6, 2018
Despite the wind today, I still managed to get some work done outside. Almost finished with the TLC to the Tardis, and things are pretty well sorted getting the yards ready for winter. Managed to get my writing in today without much trouble. I'm maintaining at least a 2000 words per day word count, which … Continue reading A Windy Day – November 6, 2018
Remember, Remember – November 5, 2018
Today was my first day back at work after a week-long layoff, so my schedule is a bit off as I have to get used to living like a vampire again. We had a bit of downtime at work, so I managed to get quite a bit of writing in before coming home. I did … Continue reading Remember, Remember – November 5, 2018
Another Busy Day – November 4, 2018
Today was another busy day. Again, I took advantage of the semi-decent weather to work outside. I did some yardwork, but spent most of the day giving my Tardis some much needed TLC. For those that don't know, a couple of years ago I built a small shed in my back yard in the shape … Continue reading Another Busy Day – November 4, 2018
A Break in the Weather – November 3, 2018
Finally had a break in the weather today, so I could get back to doing some work outside. Good thing too, because the lawns were covered in about 6 inches of leaves. I still managed to keep my writing momentum going, and got to do some work in my woodshop. All in all, a very … Continue reading A Break in the Weather – November 3, 2018
Second Day – November 2, 2018
This post is a bit late, but it was Friday night, and I went out, so ... It was the second day of NaNo today, and I did my best to keep my momentum going... I was up stupid early for some reason, but that gave me the opportunity to get some writing in early. … Continue reading Second Day – November 2, 2018
Official First Day and a Rant – November 1, 2018
Well, the first day of NaNo has come, and gone. I spent quite a bit of time in front of my trusty old MacBook today, hammering at the keys, building up my word count on my actual story. I am kind of proud of myself to tell you the truth. In all, I managed 3448 … Continue reading Official First Day and a Rant – November 1, 2018
Halloween 2018 – October 31, 2018
Happy Halloween, everyone. Apart from that, today is the last day before NaNoWriMo kicks off, which means that all of this practice I’ve been doing for the last month and more will be put to the test. Tomorrow, this silly writing thing starts for real. I’m a bit nervous, but as prepared as I suppose … Continue reading Halloween 2018 – October 31, 2018
Layoff Day Two – October 30, 2018
Second day of layoff today, and I did my best to keep busy. I did some work outside, started on a few more mini-dice towers, and made the family dinner - home made pizza from scratch, which took up a large part of the day. I've also been trying to keep moving while I'm off. … Continue reading Layoff Day Two – October 30, 2018
The Layoff Begins – October 29, 2018
Today was the first official day of my layoff from work, so I was feeling a bit aimless and unsure of what to work on. I have quite a few things around the house I could have occupied myself with, but I just couldn't get motivated to get to them. Add to that, I was … Continue reading The Layoff Begins – October 29, 2018
Rainy Day Two – October 28, 2018
Another rainy day today, so another day working inside. Got quite a bit done, so I'm happy about that. I'm very glad I've been able to keep up with my regular responsibilities and still find time to write. Again today, I had to resort to writing prompts and stream of consciousness writing to hit my … Continue reading Rainy Day Two – October 28, 2018
Rainy Days – October 27, 2018
Today was a rainy Saturday, which derailed my plans for working outside. I ended up just doing some reno-work inside the house, stuff I was saving for when the weather turned too cold to work outdoors, but still needed to be done. Feeling a bit accomplished, though, so there is that. For my writing today, … Continue reading Rainy Days – October 27, 2018
It’s Friday, Bitches – October 26, 2018
So, it's Friday, and I don't want to spend my Friday night hunched over my keyboard, so I decided to try and get my writing in early. I did still manage to get some things done around the house, mostly tidying up the outside of the house to get it ready for winter. Writing was … Continue reading It’s Friday, Bitches – October 26, 2018
Another Shit Day – October 25, 2018
Just going to say this right off the bat... Today was a shit day. Nothing too devastating, just disappointing, but I'll roll with it. Honestly, it's mostly my fault for not paying attention and seeing it coming. I'll deal with it. Anyway, had a good time grabbing some beers with a good friend and shooting … Continue reading Another Shit Day – October 25, 2018
One Week To Go – October 24, 2018
Today was kind of busy; had quite a bit to get done this afternoon, as I have plans tomorrow evening before work and won't be able to get up to much. I did get my writing in, though. I'm really trying to put in the effort to write consistently every day, and to at least … Continue reading One Week To Go – October 24, 2018
What’s the Point? – October 23, 2018
With November just around the corner, NaNoWriMo advice posts and blogs are, of course, coming out of the woodwork. I’ve been reading quite a few of them, looking for any tips, tricks or encouragement that might help me along in my NaNo attempt next month. I read them on my phone during break at work, … Continue reading What’s the Point? – October 23, 2018
A Shit Day – October 22, 2018
It's been a pretty shit day today; have been moping around in a bit of a funk because of some disappointing news. Nothing really serious, just, as I said, disappointing. I did still manage to get my writing in, though I dread to read it over, as I'm sure it's even worse than my usual … Continue reading A Shit Day – October 22, 2018
A Rant – October 21, 2018
So, I got a private message today, from one of my Facebook "Friends", regarding my NaNo posts, and I feel I have to address it. I said before that if you find my daily NaNo posts annoying, I won't mind if you block notifications from me until this is all over. I post updates once … Continue reading A Rant – October 21, 2018