The puzzles for all current projects are finished. Some are still in the hands of young testers and my critique group, but I expect to do the final polish tomorrow and send the last batch on their way.

In the meantime, I’ve been working on taxes. Like most people, I don’t enjoy tax time, although I seem to have a better attitude this year than I’ve had in some years. I’m not opposed to paying taxes. Not at all. I appreciate at least some of the things taxes do for me and for others. What I mind is the painful, time-sucking, convoluted process required to pay them. The tax laws of this country are one of the Seven Absurd Wonders of the World. What I also mind is that there is apparently no effective way to be fair about the whole thing. You know how Christmas can bring out the best in people? I think tax time brings out the worst. Ergo, it’s best to get through them as quickly as possible and move on. I hope to finish taxes tomorrow, too.

And then what?

Ohmygosh, the calendar is blank! The world opens up and all things are again possible. Hmm, what shall I tackle next? A book proposal? A story? A design? A class? I love being in this place.

Of course, that’s not exactly precisely the whole and factual truth. There are things I should do next, and I’ll do them. But there aren’t any specific deadlines looming, and I feel a sense of freedom, endless possibility, and hope.
Ah. Paradise.