Before we go on to the part about how Connie's project turned out, I want you to first click on the play button and listen to a clip of Connie reading the beginning of one of her stories, The Pictures, in her wonderful Scottish accent. Download pictures.doc
Below are Connie's notes for our last session, when we presented our project results and learnings. The photos are from her show and tell.
Three things I've accomplished
I registered my editing business, Watchstone Editing Services, with the state and acquired a federal tax ID number. I had business cards made and wrote a business plan and a marketing plan.
I finished three short stories and submitted one for publication: Halfway House to Glimmer Train.
I submitted the first chapter of a mystery novel, The Seal's Tooth, to the Texas Writers' League competition in March.
Three things I've learned
I'm not that interested in business anymore. My main objective in starting the editing business was to make enough money to buy a cottage in Orkney. That is now a longer-term project due to rapidly increasing prices.
I really wanted to understand what the characteristics of a publishable short story are and whether I could write well enough to publish my work. By submitting my work for writing competitions and participating in writing groups, I'm gaining confidence and valuable feedback.
I've learned that Austin is a really enjoyable place to live. I had always yearned to return to Orkney to live when I retired, after some difficult experiences in the U.S. But I discovered that I really enjoy living in Austin and that it is very important to me to be close to my daughters.
Acknowledgments
Project Lab has provided me with the support and encouragement of interesting people knowledgeable about creativity and about Austin. I have learned so much about this city and really like living here.
Labsters are a great group of creative people trying to achieve important goals and make important life changes. It has been fascinating to watch each individual pursue his or her goals and make significant breakthoughs despite challenges and setbacks. Special thanks to Susan Keeler for her patience, support and enthusiasm, while facing some very difficult personal challenges.
Myself: This year for me as been about adjusting to a new phase in my life, letting go of my need to move back to Scotland full-time and permanently and accepting Austin as my American home. I have found it to be a warm and friendly place. My family is coming together here and I'm getting involved in the life of the city.
What's next for me
I plan to focus on two things while continuing to find my feet as a writer:
- Design and build a garden behind my house.
- Get more involved in volunteer work, e.g., LAMP, and the resurgence of Webb Middle School in my neighborhood, while exploring other opportunities for community involvement.
