Journal: December 1, 2024 - Thanksgiving Alone, Beta Reader Progress, and Moving Plans

What's Happening This Week

Writing for the week: No new words, but my second beta reader finished A Feast of Stones, and I’ve been making notes for updates to Book Two and additions to Book Three.

Current workout: House hunting. (If I wasn’t already bald, I’d be pulling my hair out.)

What I’m reading: Children of Dune by Frank L. Herbert. Last week, I finished Dune and Dune: Messiah. A post about those is definitely coming soon.

Thanksgiving Reflections

I hope everyone in the U.S. had a happy Thanksgiving! For those outside the U.S., I hope your Thursday (and the rest of the week) treated you kindly.

This year was different for me. For the first time since 2004, I spent the holiday alone. It wasn’t a decision made out of sadness but one of self-awareness. I knew trying to celebrate as I had in the past would feel forced, and I didn’t want to spend the day pretending everything was the same. Instead, I leaned into the quiet.

Thanksgiving was not melancholy or somber. I kept things simple—watching a few movies, diving into a good book (Dune has me so dang captivated), snacking on popcorn, and enjoying the company of my pets. It was a day of peace, free from the pressure of expectations, and I think that’s exactly what I needed.

Moving Plans Begin to Take Shape

The quiet I had on Thanksgiving won’t last long. With moving plans becoming clearer, the next few weeks are going to be anything but quiet. By early this week, I should have more concrete answers about where I’ll be heading next. Then comes the real fun*—packing, organizing, and the endless joy of moving logistics.

*By fun, I absolutely do NOT mean fun.

I’ve been in this house for four years, and I had thought it would be the last time I ever moved. But when life throws a punch, you pivot. As much as I dread the work ahead, there’s something hopeful about starting fresh. The idea of creating a new space, a new routine—it’s daunting, yes, but it also feels like a chance to grow. Maybe if I say that enough, I'll believe it, right?

Beta Reader Progress and Exciting Changes

Big news on the writing front: my second beta reader has finished A Feast of Stones! The feedback has been absolutely glowing, which is equal parts encouraging and humbling. Beta readers are invaluable—not just for catching what’s already working, but for shining a light on the things you didn’t realize needed attention.

Some of the comments highlighted elements I’d never considered but now seem so obvious in hindsight. It’s these fresh perspectives that make beta readers such a vital part of the process. Their insights have already sparked ideas for improving A Feast of Stones and adding depth to certain moments in Book Three.

With so much happening right now—moving, brainstorming, and reviewing feedback—I doubt I’ll touch Book Three again for a little while. I’m waiting on my third beta reader to finish up, and once their feedback is in, A Feast of Stones will be one big step closer to publication.

Thoughts on Books and Creative Plans

Lately, I’ve had a lot of ideas bouncing around in my head. Thoughts on books I’ve read (looking at you, Dune) and possible reviews or analyses I’d like to write. There are also a few broader topics I’ve been reflecting on—ideas that feel important, almost urgent, like they need to be written just to clear some space in my mind.

I’m not sure yet how or when these thoughts will come together, but I’m excited and a little nervous about sharing them. They feel like a departure from my usual creative work, but sometimes stepping outside your comfort zone is exactly what you need. Stay tuned—there’s more on this coming soon.

How Was Your Week?

Now that I’ve shared what’s been on my plate, I’d love to hear about yours! How was your week? Did anything exciting happen? Was there an embarrassing family moment at Thanksgiving that you’re brave enough to share?

Maybe you made some progress on a book, whether you’re reading or writing one. Or perhaps you’ve been creating art, working on a project, or just enjoying some downtime. Got pet pictures? (I’ll never say no to pet pictures.)

Feel free to comment below or hit me up on Bluesky. I always love hearing from you. Whatever your week has looked like, I hope it’s been kind to you. Here’s to brighter days ahead!

Edward