Greetings!

I hope all of you are enjoying your holidays. I know I certainly am! It has been a blessed Christmas Season and I’m very much looking forward to the New Year.

2010 offers much promise!

Writing News:
I am finishing the final edit of my novel and hope to submit my manuscript to a publisher early in the year. Of course, it is possible that I will find some reason to re - write the story, but I’m doing my best to refrain from this so I can finally put it to bed.

The writing process has taken longer than I had expected, but nevertheless it has been very thrilling. I began this journey (on the second book) as I was wrapping up “Endless,” five years ago. And although it has been a long time, I’m glad I didn’t rush through to self - publish because I would have missed out on many of the plot - twists and new characters that have arisen as the story unfolded over time. It helps to let the story simmer and marinate, as it turns out.

Writing can be a magical process. There are times when I have to ask, “Who is writing this?” as it seems I am merely transcribing the events as they unfold in my imagination. Sometimes, a character will appear, complete with a name and face, a character who takes the narrative in a new direction, a direction unexpected, yet entirely appropriate to the storyline. Don’t ask me how it happens, but I’m thrilled when it does.

I think you will really enjoy my new novel.

Work News:
My job as editor is keeping me very busy at Tower Publications. This is the main excuse I have for not having finished the novel. However, I am very happy and grateful to have a full time job with such a terrific company. And to be honest, other distractions (such as the TV!) have also contributed to the delay.

This past year I have, again, had the opportunity to meet many interesting people and write about them: authors, filmmakers, scientists, veterans, musicians – the list goes on. And in February, I have been invited to speak to the members of the Writing Alliance of Gainesville.

Recently, I spent a good amount of time taking photographs at the “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” event in Gainesville (now I have to write a story on that!). It was fun to see the process of filming the show, and observe how the community can come together to help a family; how they can tear down a house and build a new one in 4 - 1/2 days. Crazy!

Furthermore, I am excited to announce we are launching a new publication for the Gainesville area. Entitled “Our Town,” this new magazine will hit the streets in February 2010. Those of you in Gainesville keep an eye out for it!

As always, I thank all of you for reading and writing (and sending me your positive energy!). Thank you!

Take care and have a HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Sincerely,
Albert