urn:lj:livejournal.com:atom1:seanan_mcguire The Journal of Seanan McGuire Seanan McGuire 2010-11-01T17:23:40Z urn:lj:livejournal.com:atom1:seanan_mcguire:287143 2010-11-01T17:23:40Z 2010-11-01T17:23:40Z Glee, "Mercy." Officially, for the current dominant culture of the country where I live, the new year begins on January 1st. I don't really remember when I started celebrating the new year on November 1st, as dictated by the Wiccan calendar; it's just the time that feels right to me. Harvest is ending. We're sliding into the long winter, time for contemplation, renewal, and preparing to face the spring. I like the idea that we can start the year with a nice, long, blanket-swaddled nap. So happy new year, from my calendar to yours.<br /><br />This past year has been an absolute roller coaster ride. High points have included my first-ever visit to Australia (and winning the CAMPBELL AWARD OMG), publishing not one, but <i>three</i> books, under two different names, a good half-dozen conventions, ranging from the massive (San Diego forever!) to the small and intimate (Spocon rules!), winning my third Pegasus Award, and finishing three more books. I never said I was all that fond of <i>sleep</i>. Low points have included exhaustion, travel woes, illness, and throwing my back out. On the balance, I'm calling it a win.<br /><br />Whether today is the beginning of your year, the beginning of your holiday season, or just another Monday, I wish all the best to you and yours. May your days be sweet, your fires be warm, and your skies be filled with stars.<br /><br />Happy New Year.