Dear Me

Dear Me,

Well, here we are, staring at each other over our coffee cups. Just thought I'd pop in for some Joe and tell you what I've been up to lately and what I hope for the future.

First, I went through the portfolio and deleted a couple of items. Yes, even the Doctor Who fan fiction piece. It was fun to write the first one (because I got to think of David Tennant), but honestly I'm not a real fanatic of the show and I don't know how to write monsters. Don't worry, I kept Kitty Tenkiller; I think she's an interesting character and strong enough now to stand on her own. And, to take some pressure off you, she'll be in a short story instead of The Great American Novel.

I also deleted a couple of pieces that weren't fully developed. Just a title and a rough idea of what they would be. But I knew that I was taking on too much work (sound familiar) and killed them off before they became a burden/starved to death from the writing form of malnutrition.

We're moving at the end of the school year. Didn't you get the memo? After school is over, which is only four months away. You may need to get out something stronger for this one...we're moving in with our in-laws. Yes, it will be an adjustment for everyone. Wonder what they'll think of their daughter-in-law hiding in the basement, writing for hours on end. Probably tag me as a cave-dweller. Considering that he's an alcoholic and she's an enabler, they may be right.

Do me a favor this year, don't take on too many projects or volunteer work. It just leaves yourself exhausted and resentful that there aren't enough hours in the day. Oh, and see the doctor the next time your sex drive goes south. You're forty-three and probably are running out of hormones. Also, don't try to be all things to all people. Like the "I'm going to make Sarah's clothes" thing. Honestly, did you really think that would work? You're nodding your head. Kid...you're not Ma Ingalls. Nor are you an Iron Chef. Just concentrate on making Halloween costumes, the occasional skirt/dress for the kid and choose a menu that your family will like. By the way, the beef sirloin tip with mushrooms and rice pilaf was a hit!

Try to hit the gym more often. Since the summer you've managed three times a week and that's great. Try for four or five and the pounds will melt off. By the way...kudos for controlling your sweet tooth.

Time to be really serious...be gentle with yourself. It's okay to give up things that don't work out. I know you're good at customer service, but if Avon doesn't make money, there's really no point in keeping it. But keep using the facial scrub and moisturizer. Just because you walk away from something that's not working, doesn't make you a failure. Like we keep telling Sarah, "A person who never tries anything doesn't grow." Not everything works out. Remember the Brussell sprout recipe? Even you spit that one out.

Okay, time to get off our collective butts and get to work.
Have a good 2012.