This is an interesting community, to say the least. I know that many here are not writers or aspiring writers; however, it amazes me how some writers are so creative, and so damn good. Some writers complain that they could not grind out the next five thousand words of a story so they won't be posting this week. Others turn out charming little short stories every month or so that are interesting, and with enough varience to make them seem like new stories. Some are like Christmas trees. They're like Douglas Firs with different decorations. Maybe they're Blue Spruce with different decorations, or Balsam fir. Underneath, the tree hasn't changed much. Other authors' creativity astounds me. Stylistically, the authors are quickly recognizable, even if one can't remember the authors' names, but the stories express such a wealth of imagination. I don't know how Angharad, Andrea, Bailey and many others do it.

I am intensly jealous of their talent; however, I've tried not to let their talent discourage me. I took a break from the novel that I've been struggling with since early this year to write Adam and the Three Wishes. I wrote it to try to knock the sludge from this aged mind. I started researching my current work several years ago, and much of it represents actual military experiences from nearly 45 years ago. I've actually spent quite a bit of money on some research material. In spite of all that, it's been like trying to force toothpaste back in the tube. There are some days where if I write anything at all, I'm lucky to get 200 words down. I had thought early this year that I might have the story done by this October. Well, guess what. I'm not a third of the way through it. It will probably be next spring before I get it completed for Holly to get her teeth into. It's not like I'm searching for a story. I know the story. I even wrote a few paragraphs, and teased Wren with them, about an episode that will take place may years ahead of where I am currently mired in. I hope to get there eventually. Most likely, this will be the last novel in the California Saga series, Although there is an inkling of another story out there. I'm just not sure i can develop it enough.

The Cynthia Chronicle are a different matter. There are at least three or four short novels out there. We shall see about them.

Anyway, I see these apologies about not be able to get this week's episode done on time(I didn't know there was a posting requirement). Angharad keeps turning out episode after episode, and manages to keep them fresh. She doesn't count, and deserves a rest. Give me a break. Recalcitrant Plebny is approaching, and some day, it will catch up to all those whippersappers out there. Maybe there should be a posting restriction, so that us old folks don't feel the pressure to create so much.

I had hopes of pounding out a few words this evening. It's just not there. Instead, I've written this diatribe. I can't even express my frustration. Stop complaining about not being able to get out your latest episode this week. You're rubbing salt into the wounds.