Dec. 5, 2011–The good news from here is that I am comfortably moved in to  the new-to-me apartment, next door to the one I've occupied for two years.  I promise:  This is the last move before I take up residence behind the Pearly Gates or behind those other gates we don't mention.

I had a pleasant email from a purchaser of Iron Grip where I made my last presentation:  "compelling–couldn't put it down."

Here are market/contest suggestions for you:  OCEAN MAGAZINE  publishes "stories, articles, essays and poetry about the ocean–scientific, creative, environmental, recreational, spiritual–in keeping with its celebration and protection of our ocean.  see: www.oceanmagazine.org/contributorguidelines.asps

ANGELS & DEVILS POETRY COMPETITION,  "Write a poem of no more than 30 lines about family relationships–looking at one's relatives in an original way–personal experience, create empathy, etc. "www.hollandparkpress.co.uk/magazine_detail.php?magazine_id=1248&language=English

THE PREMISE  "On the Premises magazine aims to promote newer and/or relatively unknown writers.  No reading fee.  Payment from $40 to $180 for short stories that fit each issue's broad story premise–realist, mystery, fantasy, sci-fi, etc. for adults.  Current contest  subject is "Home."  Deadline, Jan. 2012" www.onthepremises.com/index.html

Good luck–until next Monday.  Willma