With the holidays behind me and before the new year starts, this is the time of year when I usually lean back to take stock of the past. Not only that, it's an ideal time to start thinking about my goals for the next calendar year.

2009 was quite a momentous year of change on many fronts.

As a writer it was the year I first got published, thus realizing a dream I'd had since learning to read - several "eons" ago. I also managed to sell three more books, which makes me feel like I'm definitely on my way. I have at least another ten WIPs, so lots to look forward to on the "work" front.

Professionally I took the step of leaving full-time employment in June which freed up all the time I now need for writing. It was, and is, a scary thing to do. But I haven't regretted it for a second; it was one of the most freeing things I have ever done.

Personally I saw my three youngest nieces and my goddaughter grow and develop, which is always a joy. I discovered some things about myself that I never had the time to realize while I was working a stressful job. I'm still on that journey of personal discovery, but I know enough to have made the rainbow butterfly my avatar. And I've gained some wonderful new friends in the online community.

What are my goals for 2010?

They're still forming, but writing and more personal discovery are top among them. I want to finish the ten novels I started and then start some more. I want to find the time to discuss books and ideas with my fellow writers and online friends. I want to spend even more time with my nieces and travel. I'm determined to get physically fit again. I want to continue to support the fight for equal rights of GLBT people everywhere.

All this will take energy and dedication. I'm sure that the potential gain on all those fronts is truly worth the effort. This is a great beginning of the second decade of the 21st century!

I wish all of you a view of the future and a year 2010 that is similarly hopeful and, of course, ultimately successful!

Serena