no pity parties on Thanksgiving!

Most of yesterday was great—I baked the cornbread, I met with yet another new doctor who seems on point, and I exceeded my step goal by walking home (and getting a little bit lost). But in the middle of the day, I had an unfortunate encounter with a gatekeeper in NYC that made me think for the hundredth time that there’s no future for me in the US publishing industry. Of course, I haven’t yet found another arena to operate in so that leaves me feeling stuck. But last night, instead of surrendering to self-pity, I started thinking about projects I could finish before the end of the year: my Danish fairy tale “The Night Butterfly,” the final dragon book The Map of Doors, and a new collection of poetry. Then I sat down and wrote for the first time in months! That energy has carried over to today and since it’s supposed to be quite cold here in Chicago, I’m looking forward to spending the weekend glued to my laptop.

I haven’t had a proper cold since before the pandemic but this one dragged out for two full weeks. I managed to do a few things at the start of each day—shopping or baking for the holidays. On one outing I picked up this puzzle and thoroughly enjoyed being screen-free for several hours. The situation in the Middle East has seemed hopeless for so long but there is now one peace deal and there may be another for Gaza. Peace on Earth might yet be possible…

Next week I have my last gig of the year. If you’re in or near Oak Brook, please join us at the Barnes & Noble for a conversation about banned books. December 3 is Giving Tuesday; like me, you’ve probably already been blitzed with requests for donations but if you grew up with a library in your school, I hope you’ll consider helping this school build a library filled with social justice-themed books. You can make a donation here.