I know that Christmas Eve is a little early for the whole ‘best of’ shenanigans, but I’m taking some time off the blog over the next few weeks so that I can have a short break, and then finalise the manuscript for book three in The Mapmaker Chronicles series. (The January 15 deadline for the edits seemed like a good idea at the time…)
I’m also looking forward to a few minutes to think about what I’m going to do next year. I might try the whole mindmap thing again – it worked pretty well for me last year!
In the meantime, I’m madly wrapping the last few Christmas presents, soaking the fruit for my world-famous* mini Christmas puds, and realising that in my zealous pursuit of the best-ever Christmas lunch, I may have forgotten some essential items. Like milk. And bread. And toothpaste. (Do you do this? Tell me that you do.)
But I will have roses for my Christmas table, as the garden is delivering some absolute beauties, right on cue.
To finish up for 2014, I’ve put together a few lists. You know how I love a good list. I hope you enjoy!
10 most popular blog posts for 2014
What to blog about: 5 top tips for new and aspiring authors
Six reasons you should start writing your novel now
Introducing… The Mapmaker Chronicles
3 common mistakes new freelance writers make
Social media for writers #1: Blogging
50 of the best Australian authors and writers on Twitter
The difference between editing features and editing fiction
Should I join a writers’ group?
When book one of The Mapmaker Chronicles came out in October, the blogging community responded with enthusiasm, and my sister Maxabella put together one of the best blogging book tours I have ever seen. Every single one of those posts is a winner (and heartfelt thanks to all my blogging friends for all their support).
Map drawing prompt: Free printable
8 books for boys (featuring awesome girls)
How we grow when life throws us curveballs
14 books to inspire kids to travel
Finally, the fifth anniversary of this blog is looming. That’s right. In January, I will have been blogging for five years, first at Life In A Pink Fibro (yes, I still miss the Fibro) and now here. So I thought I would share my five favourite blog posts of all time.
Motherhood is … Learning to Let Go
In writing, as in life, ride your own race
Getting ready for big school is for the birds
And that’s probably enough lists for today. No wonder my To Do list has turned into my life’s work.
I hope you have a lovely, restful festive break – see you in the New Year!
*May not strictly be true
Merry Christmas Allison. You have put in a mighty fine year. I’m looking forward to my 8 year old opening a gift from me tomorrow morning that includes a copy of The Mapmaker Chronicles. Much to my delight Mr 8 is a budding writer and I think not only will he enjoy your book but also learn much about the craft of writing through reading your words. Enjoy your well earned break and I look forward to 2015 where I might even be able to put in a mightier effort myself with my youngest heading off to school! ps photos of the roses from your garden please
A very Merry Christmas to you and your family Allison xxx
Merry Christmas Al and thanks for the reading list! Hope you have a lovely break too x
Merry Christmas lovely Al – it’s been a wonderful year xx
Merry Christmas and thank you for your fabulous blog and book… my 7 year old can not stop talking about your book and counting the days till we can read the next one!