Expect the Unexpected!

The beginning of a New Year is always something to look forward to with a fresh new outlook. It’s a time for resolutions, new behaviors, and/or ridding ourselves of the negative ... And preparation time to expect the unexpected.

I recently returned from the States, and I learned not to expect things. While visiting, I had a calendar of expectations, but the unexpected happened. It was a realization that I should always prepare for the unexpected, not just focus on what I want but what could possibly be.    

If there’s one thing I learned during my visit is that everyone is busy, and even though plans are set, the unexpected sometimes pops up. Time doesn’t wait for anyone. It was a wakeup call, and a lesson that while other people’s lives continue on, I also have a life that I must get on with in order to succeed.

When I lived and worked in the United States, my life was completely different than it is now, living and working as a self-published author in Germany. It’s more relaxed, and my husband and I get to spend a lot of time together due to his job and vacation time. I was blessed to get to write full-time and work on my publications, but I also have to admit that I can easily stray from my job—procrastination is one of my weaknesses.

But I feel that 2014 will bring me lots of wonderful life experiences, and writing successes. Like all New Years, I’ve made a few resolutions as a guide. Here they are:

Writing and Publication

1)  I hope to make 2 blog posts a week.

2)  I hope to keep up and follow more bloggers.

3)  If anything, I hope to connect with more writers.

4)  My women’s fiction novel, Fogged Up Fairy Tale will be published by the summer.

5)  I’ll republish my past books under my new imprint.

6)  I will research and learn different ways to promote and market my book(s).

Personal

1)  I won’t be returning to the States this year, but instead, focus on my success.

2)  I’ll get a new domain for my imprint and recreate my website.

3)  Each day, I’ll thank God for something I’m grateful for in my life.

4)  I’ll lose more weight.

5)  This year will be a year of travel.

6)  I plan on getting to know other people in Germany, so I can build a community of friends here.

Have you made any resolutions?

I wish you all a wonderful New Years. May you achieve your resolutions.

Resolutions and the Unexpected,

Bea

Happy New Years, Everyone! To A Blessed 2010!

While time closes in on 2009 reaching for 2010, I think about this year and all that has happened in MY LIFE. I’ll admit that I was blessed in 2009 and hope to continue those blessings in 2010. My family and friends have remained healthy and safe, which is the biggest blessing of all.

I’ve continued to write and improve on my poetry while submitting to several online and print magazines. Although I’ve received many nice rejections, it was the one acceptance that boosted my writing confidence. In early 2010, I will be published in a big online magazine, so stay tuned.

I went to Germany and experienced a whole new culture. It was beautiful and being of German decent made the experience extra special.

My condominium is up for sale. I hope to complete that transaction in 2010 and purchase a house. I know the market is bad, but it’s not impossible.

I’m working towards a new career in teaching. While taking the appropriate tests and researching online certificate programs, I’m trying to add to my resume by getting published and tutoring.

Last but far from least, is the amazement of finding my soul mate. It all started at the end of last year, but it was this year when we both let the secret out. He is a wonderful, gentle man who woke me up to life, learning and love. He helped me start breathing again, and is my biggest fan. What started out as a friendship grew into something so extraordinary that most people never get to experience. There was a reason for my 41-years of single life. I was merely waiting for him to arrive. We both hope to be living together in the new year.

For my Love, A Happy New Year for us – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUOUx--wKBo&feature=related

As you can see, I hope the things I began in 2009 are completed in 2010. I also hope that all of your wishes are granted, and those who struggled this year and prior will get the compensation they deserve in 2010.

A toast to all of you. May you remain healthy, may love warm your hearts and may your pains of yesterday be rewarded today. Have a safe and wonderful New Year!

A toast to all of our military men and women. May you stay safe, may you know we are all thinking of you and are aware of the sacrifice you and your families make, and may you safely come home to us in 2010. We’ll be waiting for you.