Engine on

I'm sorry that I'm neglecting the blog lately. I figure there must be two, or maybe even three, readers out there who miss it. But it's time to write the next novel.

I find that it's difficult to start a novel. The goal is to get to the point where I know what to write and how to do it, but the climb to get there can be a trial. However, once it gets going -- and it has -- it rushes along, powered by its own innards. The plot and characters drive the story, not me. "Engine on" is the phrase that came to mind when things got going this time. It's like the book developed a life of its own. Once that happens, writing becomes a simple task. All I have to do is record what the characters say and do. It's their show, not mine.

And so I find myself busy. Have no fear. I will always return to this blog after a hiatus. I won't be like those guys who blog for a year or two and then leave for parts unknown. Besides, you know where I am and you can always contact me by commenting on any post here, even the old ones. I'll see it and unless you're a completely crazy wingnut, I'll respond.

In the meantime, you can always read Xmas Carol to get your dose of Keith. I promise it will be one of the most entertaining reads of your life. So get busy. Speaking of which...

Stats and reality

Blogger says I've had over 50,000 visitors. Doesn't feel like it. In fact, it feels kind of chilly in here. Maybe one of the visitors left the door open.

My Xmas Carol blog

On my author's page at Amazon (which you get to by clicking on my name when you're on the Xmas Carol page), there's a link on the right that leads to my Xmas Carol blog.

I haven't posted much there but I invite Xmas Carol readers to visit and leave a comment or two. It needs a little livening-up. Thanks!

The iPhone sketcher's subway series

If you haven't visited the iPhone Sketchbook Drawings blog, give it a click. The blogger is Eric Molinsky and the site showcases his drawings of people he encounters in the NYC subway system.

He does the drawings with one finger on his iPhone, using Sketchbook Express, the same program my cousin Carmine used to draw the popey guy.

Molinsky's drawings are simple yet each one seems to capture a living person. You almost feel you know things about his subjects. What a talented guy.

Nice stuff over on the graphics blog

I put two fun videos up on my cheesy-graphics version of this blog today, plus a photo of folks ice-skating on our pond. If you can stand the bandwidth, come on over.