I started 2018 with a little To-Do List to keep me on task, (sometimes I wander!). After 8 months, it’s time to check in!
- Read. A lot.
I joined the Goodreads Reading Challenge with a goal of reading 40 books in 2018.
This summer was a little crazy with traveling (Indiana, Florida, and Italy), so I didn’t get a chance to read as much as I wanted to, but I’m still on track to reach my goal of 40 books. So far, I’ve read 31 and I’m two books ahead of schedule.
Status: Stack of read books > Stack of unread books
2. Write and Submit
I have lofty goals in this department, which include readying a poetry chapbook, writing a sequel to my YA novel, and submitting to literary agents.
In June, I published my first haiku chapbook on Wattpad. Overall, I’m happy with the result as it attracted some new readers to my work in general and my blogs (I got a nice jolt in followers both here and on Haiku Tree). I have another chapbook ready to go, which I am looking to release sometime this Fall. It is the collection that placed in the Top 10 of the 2017 Poem A Day Challenge on Writer’s Digest. Stay tuned!
As for my novel, it’s been pretty quiet. And frustrating. At the moment, I’m trying to figure out my next move.
Status: A smiley face sticker … stuck to the floor.
3. Travel
My travel list included Portland, Oregon, Italy, and wherever else happens to ping on the radar.
This year, I found my way back into the travel groove! I traveled to Indiana twice to see family and made some wonderful memories.
Then, I ended up going to Florida for a training workshop. I’m usually not a fan of beaches, but this time was different. It was my first time in Florida and it did not disappoint – beautiful sunsets, an incredible rainstorm, and several encounters with wildlife made it a memorable experience.
Italy ended up being nothing short of incredible. Between the stunning architecture of Milan, a day trip into Switzerland, and a convention for my favorite show, (#SaveShadowhunters). I’m still reeling from what can only be described as an amazing adventure.
Recently, an opportunity for London has blipped on the radar. We’ll see. I’m always looking for an excuse to go back to the UK!
Status: A Giant Gold Star
4. Look for open doors and step through them.
The big idea with this list item was to simply keep my eyes open for opportunities and to actually pursue them.
My new job is both challenging and rewarding. I love the fact that every day is different and I never know what to expect. At the same time, the learning curve is steep and there are a lot of moments where I have no idea what I’m doing. As someone who is normally has all her ducks in a row, these moments are unnerving, but I’m getting the hang of it!
Status: Carefully balanced on a tightrope.
5. Give
The holiday season is just around the corners and I’ve got plans. The shelter where I got my dog is going to be the recipient of some wonderful and warm blankets. I’ve been working on them all summer!
At work, I’m organizing some special crafting events where students learn to loom knit hats for homeless shelters.
Status: Planning Stage
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How’s 2018 going for you?
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c.b.w. 2018
C.B. Wentworth 
It looks like you’re doing really well!
2018 is beating me up, but that’s okay, I’m sticking around. =) I’m mostly using this year to try to step back and focus on the little things. Baby steps! Maybe big goals again next year.
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Some things are going well and some things have plenty of room for improvements – it’s a nice balance!
There’s still a couple of months left in 2018, I hope they are amazing for you!
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