Hi Everyone!

I can’t believe Christmas is only a few days away. This entire year has gone by way too fast and now it’s time to reorganize and regroup for the new year.

I am working on my first newsletter, even though I thought it would be done much sooner, so I can get it out to those of you who have subscribed by the end of the week. I am still dealing with learning curves when it comes to all of the new things I am doing for my author business. For those of you who have not yet filled out the newsletter form on my website, there is still time to do so! You will be entered into a drawing that I will be doing on New Year’s Day. You can win a signed copy of my book, Never Break the Chain: Immigration and the American Dream, or a $25 Amazon gift card! After you submit your email address, be sure to go to your inbox and click on the confirmation link. I also have several signed copies of my book that will make great Christmas presents. If you need one, just let me know and I will be sure you get it before Saturday if you are local!

In my quest to get organized, I am updating my calendars and planners for the new year and getting rid of old emails, paperwork, and other things I no longer need. Here are some tips I am using to become more organized for the new year:

• Declutter: They say that if you have not used something or worn it for three months or longer, donate it, sell it, or trash it. And no, I have no idea who they are, but they are obviously way more organized than I am right now.
• Calendar Block: I use my Google calendar to time block everything. From freelance writing assignments and book writing to time with my grands, family, and friends, it is all on my calendar and in my planner. If it is not written down, it is probably not getting done.
• Storage Solutions: If you like things nice and neat so you can find them easily when you need them, storing them according to categories is the way to go. Dollar Tree is my best friend because they have tons of storage items that will not break the bank.
• Morning Routine: Create a morning routine that works for you. The book, “Good Morning, Good Life,” by former Ohioan Amy Landino has been a great resource for helping me to create a morning routine that works well for me. And no, I do not get up at 5 a.m. but I do get started with it by 6:30 a.m. most days.
• Meal Planning: I have a lot of friends who meal prep every week but I am only one person and do not feel the need to do that. It is helpful, though, when I plan ahead so I can eat healthy, keto-friendly meals without having to figure out what I am cooking each day.
• Celebrate: Once you have everything in place to be as organized as possible for the new year, celebrate like I will be doing on New Year’s Eve. We deserve it!

Now, I am off to figure out how to finish creating the trailer for my book! More information will be coming in January’s newsletter about my next book and the products I am currently creating that I hope will be beneficial for others! Be sure to sign up so you can try to win the Amazon gift card or a book on Jan. 1!

I hope all of you are having an amazing first day of winter and only 89 more days until Spring 2023!