Rules For A Reason / Happenings In The Outhouse 21-March-2025

Everyone loves rules, right?

Oh, you don't?

Well, you're gonna like these.

Or are you . . . ?

In 1964, science fiction author Robert Heinlein wrote an essay in a collection titled Of Worlds Beyond.  At the very end of the essay, almost as an afterthought, he stated his five basic rules of writing.  Keep in mind, he was talking about fiction, and speculative fiction to boot, but this can be used for all writing.

These simple rules are:

1) Write

2) Finish what you're writing

3) Do not rewrite except to editorial review

4) Put your story out on the market

5) Keep it on the market until it's sold

Sounds simple, right?  Not so fast, Sparky.  When you peel back the onion, you'd be amazed at how many people can't do even the most simple of these rules.

In the upcoming weeks, I will dive deeper into each of these rules, how they shaped my own life, and how you can use them to shape your future.

Also, you may think this is only for writers.  Wrong!  These rules can be put in place for any hobby that you want to take to the next level.

Be Healthy / Happenings In The Outhouse 14-March-2025

Late Monday night, I got hit with something (I'm still leaning toward food poisoning) that nearly took me out of commission for Tuesday and into Wednesday.  Needless to say, I got absolutely no writing done for a few days.

That being said, it's always good to be mindful of one's health.  Have regular check-ups with your doctor.  Do NOT skip them.  In fact, if possible, once you leave your appointment, schedule the next one.  Because once it's on the calendar, you won't forget.

This goes with everything, from dentists and eye doctors to your regular medical doctors and specialists.  What are you missing?  Don't skip it.

What's Up With Diners? / Happenings In The Outhouse 07-March-2025

When I reflect back on a number of my latest stories, many are set in diners.  Mostly roadside diners AKA greasy spoons.

Truth be told, I have never, ever worked in a diner.  Not even in the food industry.  However, I am fascinated by it and watch many shows about the food industry.  Many by Gordon Ramsey.  The Food Network is my jam.

I honestly don't know what my draw is to diners.  Or even restaurants in general.  I have zero desire to own one, to work in one, but I certainly write about them.

My latest novel is a cozy mystery set in a roadside diner.  I'm nearing the 30,000-word mark.  I'm hoping to have it completed by the end of this month.

When you look back at the books you read--or, to the authors, to the books you write--is there a common setting or theme?