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Journal: January 10, 2025 - New Beginnings and Fresh Determination

Writer's picture: Edward PatrickEdward Patrick

What's Happening This Week


Writing for the week: 0 – Unpacking


Current workout: None – no space until unpacking is done


What I’m reading: Fool’s Assassin by Robin Hobb. Book One of The Fitz & The Fool trilogy and Book Fourteen of The Realm of the Elderlings. Since my last entry, I’ve finished God Emperor of Dune by Frank Herbert and the remaining books of Robin Hobb’s Rainwild Chronicles. (I had paused that series after Book One to explore Dune.)


It’s been a while since my last journal entry. When last I wrote, Christmas hadn’t arrived, and I was still making plans for my move. Now, the holidays have come and gone, the new year has begun, and I’m finally settled—well, mostly. There are still a few things in a storage unit I need to grab, but for the most part, the move is done.


A Fresh Start


The animals (all nine of them) are adjusting wonderfully to the new place. One of the best surprises has been the change in my sixteen-year-old cat. Over the last few years, she had become increasingly antisocial, spending most of her time hidden away. But this change of scenery has brought out a whole new side of her—or actually, her old side, I guess. She’s suddenly playful, affectionate, and a little mischievous—like she was as a kitten. She spends so much time on my shoulders and has taken up the hobby of trying to steal my food. I love seeing her like this again.


Job Hunting and Life’s Curveballs


I thought I’d be working by now. The job I had lined up hasn’t started yet, and there’s been no official word on when—or if—it will. It’s frustrating to have counted on something only for it to go silent, but I can’t just wait around. So, I’m back to job hunting. If that opportunity does eventually come through, great, but in the meantime, I need something more certain.


I’m not letting it get me down, though. It’s disappointing, sure, but I know I’ll find something. Life has a way of throwing curveballs when you least expect them, and all you can do is adjust your swing (I'm trying to broaden my horizons here. I do not watch baseball).


The Move and Audiobook Adventures


Most of my time recently has been consumed by driving and unpacking. The move itself has been...an adventure. The round trip from the old place to the new is eight hours, and I’ve done it seven times now. Let’s just say the novelty wore off fast.


The silver lining? Those long drives have been amazing for audiobook time. I’ve devoured so much good reading material during the chaos, and it’s been a great way to keep my mind engaged amidst all the exhaustion.


I’m still unpacking and getting organized, but I think I’m finally nearing the finish line. With a bit more effort, I should be able to dive back into my book projects and exercise routine—possibly as soon as this weekend. I’m ready to get back on track.


New Year, New Determination


I’m not someone who typically makes New Year’s resolutions, but the timing of this move has lined up with the new year in a way that feels symbolic. It’s a fresh beginning, both physically and mentally, and I’m determined to make the most of it.


This isn’t about arbitrary goals—it’s about knowing I have the potential to be the best version of myself and working toward that every day. I want to rebuild my good habits, practice discipline, and approach each challenge with the determination to push forward.


So what are my goals? I would love to get A Feast of Stones out this quarter. It's ambitious, but I'm going to set the goal of getting Book Three done out out this year, as well. Find a job, get back to my workout routine, start putting money into savings for the first time in I don't even remember when. I'd like to do more with this website, and I'm brainstorming on that one. It's a work in progress.


A Chaotic World


While I’m focused on building my own fresh start, I can’t ignore the chaos in the world around me. Between wildfires in LA, snowstorms elsewhere, and the ongoing political upheaval leading up to the inauguration, there’s so much uncertainty and pain everywhere.


It can feel overwhelming at times, but I’ve resolved to do what I can—taking care of myself and those around me while staying informed and engaged. Moving forward might feel impossible some days, but it’s the only direction we have. And even when the odds seem insurmountable, I’ll keep reaching for something better.


Final Thoughts


My goal for years has been to tell great stories. Now, as I step into this new chapter of my life, I’m determined to live a great story as well—even if it feels like the world is working against it.


What about you? How’s your year starting out? Any new beginnings, creative projects, or personal victories to share? Drop a comment below or hit me up on Bluesky—I’d love to hear from you.


Here’s to moving forward. Have a great week,


Edward

 

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