Hello everyone,

Greetings from Santa Barbara! Yep, after a long hiatus, I’m back. Lots of stuff going on as always; some good, some bad. But the main thing is that I’m writing more, and I’m writing regularly. I’ve even sent a few things out awaiting response. It doesn’t look like I’ll be able to ditch the real world for a full-time career in writing just yet, but I’m working on it.

The big news right now is that: IT’S OFFICIAL! I’ve finally realized that Santa Barbara, my home for the past 4 ½ years, is no longer cutting it for me. It’s too expensive here, and I’m just not saving any money. I’m also not traveling as much, and that really smarts. So I’m actively looking for a new job. If I found a great paying gig here, I’d stay. But that’s not too likely. So now I’m looking everywhere. The top (i.e. “realistic”) choices for relocating are Chicago and Indianapolis, mainly because I have great contacts and resources there. Other ideal spots include San Francisco, Key West, and almost anywhere abroad. Of course, I’ll go wherever I find a good job. Preferably something in the writing/editing/publishing industry, although a well-paying gig that utilizes my current skills might be a better way to go.

So now I’m looking for a new job and a new city. There’s no hurry to leave SB just yet, but I know I can’t be here too much longer. Of course, it will be hard to say goodbye. Having been here so long has caused me to grow roots, and cutting myself loose will be difficult to say the least, especially with saying goodbye to some wonderful friends. But, in the end, they know it’s the best thing for me. (And some of them are considering leaving SB as well. Change is indeed infectious.)

In other news, I’ve only traveled a little lately. I headed back to Chicago to see the family and celebrate my sister getting remarried last month. I also spent nine days stint in Cabo San Lucas. Great time, but also a “business trip.” Luckily, I’ve been working on a few pieces from the trip to justify the cost. If any gets published, I’ll be a happy camper. I had hoped to meet up with a few friends for a 3-week trip in India at the end of this year, but unless I can come up with the money for it, it looks like it won’t happen. (Anyone have an extra $3,000 they can spare?)

And that’s pretty much it right now. I’ll be updating this blog at least twice a week (my New Year’s resolution, 1 month early), so those curious enough can follow my progress. Of course, you’ll be hearing about it in the Xmas letter, and once I find a better job, I’ll be shouting it from the mountains.

Hope you all are well. More soon!

Love, laughter, and travel,
dave