I no longer keep a journal, but thanks to The VERB archives, I can grab a glimpse of what I was doing every month. So let's see...

January: I learned that a computer with a silent smooth fan is much better than one with the sound of a 747.

February: I learned the past can creep up and smack you on the head, but that isn’t always a bad thing.

March: I learned I can still focus on writing without continuously swigging on Diet Cherry Vanilla Dr. Pepper.

April: I learned exactly how my organs stack up inside my body, and I must say I walked away highly impressed.

May: I learned that even when writers are asked to submit no more than a single sentence, they still have the capacity to reveal true genius.

June: I learned that you don't forget your first earthquake.

July: I learned that in a bad economy, some folks do things they've never done before: such as invest in fleeting fireworks to celebrate the 4th of July.

August: I learned to let go of my son as he moved to Chicago for a two-year stint in film school.

September: After opening the doors of the Story Room, I learned that some newbie writers are this close to becoming great storytellers.

October: I learned that many VERB readers share my love for unique things, including people and pumpkins.

November: I learned that some stories have their own timetable, and will let you know when they’re ready to be completed.

December? Well, I don't know what I'll learn this month, but I bet it'll be a doozy. 

And now my brain hurts. With all this learning, I must be up there with rocket scientists by now, don't you think? But before I become too addled from this heady growth, I want to wish you a wonderful holiday season and new year. May all your months in 2009 be filled with exquisite joy!

ATTENTION NOVELISTS: We've set our services at a special rate throughout the month of December. If you've completed a novel and yearn for some thoughtful, practical feedback, this is your chance to get it for much less. We've even done the math for you. All you have to do is submit your manuscript and pay your special fee here. Gift yourself!