Sometimes, I have to makes lists. If I don't, too many bits and pieces float around in the fishbowl that is my skull, and then nothing works as it should.
I've been plugging away, in the background, on this year's print version of 52 Stitches. Yes, it's coming (and I think the cover is just lovely, but I'm sick like that). On a related note, there will be no 52 Stitches next year. I've fought with this decision for a long time...I've enjoyed the run (and it may be back from the "dead" in a year), but I can't make the commitment necessary for Stitches to be as awesome as I'd like. Said commitment is partially financial (I'd love to be able to pay more and offer comp copies to everyone involved), but the major factor is lack of time. Family constraints have limited my writing time (even more soccer on Saturdays and practice and homework and drama camp and...), and I don't like to "half-ass" anything I do. The sheer glut of flash fiction markets out there (even more now than when I started 52 Stitches two years ago) makes it a "trifecta" of reasons to push pause, even if it is just for a year. I'm making the announcement here (and not at the Strange Publications site) because Stitches is my baby, even if it is an awkward, wonky child at times.
Secondly, I intend to start editing Borrowed Saints. In edition, I might just post a segment each week here at the blog. I might just post the whole book before it's all said and done.
I might.
Because I can. I'd love to be motivated and inspired and brave, but sometimes I'm just tired and small and frightened.
I guess I don't have as much swimming around up there as I thought...
It just feels like too much.
14 comments:
Gasp! No 52 Stitches next year?? eh, I understand the reasons and thank you kindly for the 2 years you did give us.
'Tis a shame about 52 Stitches, but as Barry said, thanks for the two years, Aaron.
If it feels like too much, then it probably is. Step back and regroup. You should be able to enjoy what you're doing.
Gah, that's sad about "52 Stitches", but your reasons make perfect sense even to the disappointed! Thanks for doing the two so far, and here's hoping stuff sorts out enough for a third eventually.
And yay for "Borrowed Saints"! Doesn't seem like a tired, small idea to me...
Laura has it right...if it feels like to much, it probably is. Put it on hold, Aaron, and focus better on your other pursuits (and of course family). I don't think that there's a person out there that would fault you for it. Thanks for those two years, sir!
Shame about 52 Stitches - I've read every single one so far! - but fully understand your reasons for letting go. I'm just grateful you created and ran it for two great years.
When my brain gets all swishy, I pour coffee on it. Otherwise all the lists in the world won't get me off my ass.
Barry - Gasp indeed.
Cate - I'm awfully stubborn. I suspect I'll be back for more, er, abuse.
Laura - True.
Katey - The tired and small part of me says, "don't"; the brave and somewhat audacious part says "why haven't you already?"
Alan - You are more than welcome.
Michael - It is a shame. I hope I can bring it around again, in some incarnation at least.
Natalie - Soon, we shall all drown in lists!
Sorry to hear about 52 Stitches - I know there are going to be a lot of disappointed folks out there.
Sorrier still to hear how overwhelmed you are.
Gawd, I can certainly relate.
You, good sir, are motivating. And inspiring. And extremely, extremely brave. You're one of my very favorites, truly. Rock on.
-Mercedes
Cathy - It's a balance thing, and I'm sure it will shake down to a new definition of "normal" soon. We all must preserver.
Mercedes - Thanks. (how much am I blushing?)
Sorry to hear about 52 Stitches, Aaron, but fully understand your reasons. I’ve always wondered how you manage to have so much on your plate and still do it all so well.
Thanks for the ride over the past couple of years and I’d just like to add how proud I am to have been involved.
Now, get writing!!
Looking forward to seeing it and thanks for allowing me along for the ride.
Sorry to hear about 52 stitches Aaron, but totally understand. You, your work, your family and your sanity come first. [mix the order however it suits]
Thank you for the ride to date-- it was a beauty. Looking forward to seeing what's next.
Karen
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