I think I actually prefer doing these in sets, even though I know it’s not really the right way…

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December 13 – Action: When it comes to aspirations, it’s not about ideas. It’s about making ideas happen. What’s your next step? (Author Scott Belsky)

This, I excel at. As soon as I make up my mind (which can take ages) I go boldly forward and carry out my plan. So I’ve already been making a lot of schedules and calenders for 2011. It’s going to be my year of publishing. I’m coming out with a short story anthology earlier in the year, and I want Above Ground rewritten and released before I turn 24 (so, before mid-October). I’ve been carefully outlining and making to do lists and making sure I don’t overwork myself. I’m very excited!

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December 14 – Appreciate: What’s the one thing you have come to appreciate most in the past year? How do you express gratitude for it? (Author Victoria Klein)

This is a tough one. I thought of saying reading (given the 100 Book Challenge I completed) but I’ve always loved reading, so it’s not specific to this year. So maybe I would say my brother.

I live with my brother — have done for a couple years now. So much of what he does drives me mad, particularly in terms of house-keeping. But at the end of the day it’s my brother, and he’s family, and we get along very well and are pretty similar in temperament. Some people find it odd that I live with my brother, but it works and I appreciate having him around. It’s nice to have someone to cook with and chat with in the evenings, and watch silly telly.

How I express gratitude? Hm. Not sure! By putting up with him? :-)

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December 15 – 5 minutes: Imagine you will completely lose your memory of 2010 in five minutes. Set an alarm for five minutes and capture the things you most want to remember about 2010. (Author Patti Digh)

The logical side of me kicks into action. No point remembering things I have written records of. No point remembering things I can easily learn again. What I need to remember are things that are stored in my head alone. I want to remember:

• Stories: All the little plot bunnies hovering delicately at the edges of my mind, like soap bubbles. They’re the most important thing for me to remember.
• Decisions: I can be indecisive, and there are certain situations this year where I’ve finally stood firm and made a clean break. Those decisions to walk away from projects or people that were making me stressed are important to remember.
• Books: I set myself a challenge to read 100 books this year. It would be such a waste if I forgot them all!
• Promises: I hate to break a promise. I’d rather not forget any.
• New friends: I’ve met some lovely people this year.

All the embarrassing moments, I’ll gladly forget. Arguments, gone. That disgusting beer I tried last night that tasted like tomato soup? I’ll happily forget that flavour. And you can take this hangover while you’re at it.