Insight into the behind the scenes of my writing, exciting news, project updates, and release information.

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Welcome to the New Year.

Welcome back. I apologize for the lack of contact. While the chaos of the move was over in last April's newsletter, the renos, the political campaign, and the community development work was just beginning; more details below. It was a fantastic year, but now it is time to refocus my energy on my writing. Last year saw too many missed deadlines. Thank you for your patience and enjoy this month's newsletter.

Travis

News

An Explanation...

This past year was a blur! It started with a shockingly fast purchase of a new home; the first one we toured! Of course that was followed by packing and getting ready for the move. Once the move was finished, but not yet fully unpacked, some renovations needed on the foundations began. As happens with renos, one thing led to another which led to another, you get the point. The project took most of the summer and I was doing my best to oversee the work. As the project was completing, I decided to run in the Municipal Election for the position of School Board Trustee. It was my first election campaign and it really took me for a ride. It was a thrilling experience to knock on doors, attend debates, and hold real conversations with people in the community about what were their key concerns. While I did not get elected, I did gain a lot of experience and made some wonderful contacts in the community. My goal as trustee was to ensure clear communication and understanding within all neighbourhoods. I am proud to say that I am still doing that work, just in a different format. I am involved heavily in my community and have begun to do a lot of community development work. The energy I get from the people I work with is intoxicating and keeps my energy high. If you have free time, I recommend looking into your local community association or other volunteer opportunities. It is well worth the time.

New Office

The new office is in full swing and has creativity bursting from it daily. I have been making new friends at this new house, most who come to see me by my office window. I will be sharing a little more about them on social media starting this week. Though, a few have already made an appearance on my Instagram page.

Contests

Finally the update you have all been waiting for, what is going on with the contests this year?

There is some exciting news:

The short story, Moving Day for Mom, won second place in the Morango Films Story Competition in Pakistan. There will be more details coming shortly.

Round 1 of the NYC Midnight Flash Fiction Challenge 2018 has come and gone. My first round prompts were Historical Fiction, Bookshop, Floodlights. My story, In the Cover of Darkness, came in 11th place and took 5 points.

Round 2 of the NYC Midnight Flash Fiction Challenge 2018 has come and gone as well. My prompts were Sci-Fi, Atelier, Recycle Bin. My story, First Appearances, did not place for points, thus ending my run in the contest. The judges had excellent feedback for me and I look forward to entering the next contest. The story is available to be read on my website along with all my other contest entries. Follow the link to read.

https://www.thecalmscribe.ca/flash-fiction-and-competitions.html

The Extinction Protocol.

Have we already gone too far with global destruction? What happens when we do? Who will be the first to die and who will be the last to survive? If any.

Projects On The Go

Tiny Teddy gets illustrated! I am in discussions with an illustrator for Tiny Teddy and the first proofs are in. They look fantastic. Next newsletter will have insider access to some of the images. Tell your friends!

I am working on several new short stories. Some are at the plotting stage, others are being sketched out, and some are deep in the works. I will be releasing several short stories this year and have some very exciting ideas for contests and specialty pieces; including Round Two of the Halloween Contest.

Extinction Protocol has been waiting patiently behind the scenes as I worked on more pressing matters. However, its time has come. I am looking to finish the story this year and will share bits and pieces with you insiders as I go.

The Futurist Essay was delayed but is now back in the works. I will still be aiming to publish later this year. As Insiders, you will be given an opportunity to read about some of the topics discussed in the essay in an upcoming Newsletter Special Edition. Spoiler alert: I see many great things for us if we can move past certain hurdles and move through this current fog of war and violence.

All That's Left Behind is the editing process, this leaves me more time to rework Project Persyphious. All of this along with a few other stories I'm working on will make for an very interesting and busy year.

This year will see me focus more on articles and opinion pieces, along with my usual stories. Follow me on Wattpad and LinkedIn to stay up-to-date.

Recommendations of the month:

Your Local Art Gallery:

Does your city or town have an art gallery? If so, consider becoming a member. They often run amazing events and offer a great opportunity to get out of the house and mingle with the local community. I am a member of the National Gallery of Canada and also frequent many of the smaller local galleries. Not only do I always have an wonderful time, I also occasionally find a piece to add to my collection.

Book Challenge 2019:

The time has come for another reading challenge! Visit my website, www.thecalmscribe.ca, to download your own copy of the reading list and join in the fun. If you have already signed up, how are you doing in the 2019 Reading Challenge? So far I am at 1 of 26. Here is my list of books as it stands, follow me on Litsy for my reviews and thoughts on each.

1. A book to help your career or hobby. - Community The Structure of Belonging by Peter Block
2. A book chosen for its cover. - This Book Will Put You To Sleep Prof. K. McCoy & Dr. Hardwick

Tip of the month: Zathom.com

Zathom is website for creatives which challenges you to write within constraints. You are given three words and need to use each of them in s story no longer than 55 words. It is very challenging and very rewarding. If you have time to spare or are looking for a burst of inspiration head over to their website and check them out. Be sure to follow me on the site to see all the Zathoms I create!

What to share the Calm Scribe Newsletter? Go ahead! Please forward this message to anyone who might be interested.

Don't forget, your local library can be a great resource. When was the last time you visited?

That is it for this month's newsletter, thank you for your continued support.

Travis J. Croken

Have a suggestion for the recommendation of the month? Email me at travis.croken@thecalmscribe.ca

This year will see more submissions to contests, publishers, and magazines. I will keep you up-to-date on all the progress.

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Copyright © 2015-2018 The Calm Scribe, Travis J. Croken, All rights reserved.

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P.O. Box 83039 Bank and Walkley PO
Ottawa, ON
K1V 1A3

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The Calm Scribe · P.O. Box 83039 Bank and Walkley PO · Ottawa, On K1V 1A3 · Canada