Writing really is an experiment to me these days, a freedom which has come only after years of research, study, and practice. Now that I feel reasonably confident in my skill as a writer, it’s fun to try new things!

I may be querying an entirely different project, come the new year… My science fantasy manuscript is ready for its chance.

COVID hit our house hard earlier this month, and after nearly 3 weeks of acute symptoms, I’m finally coming out of it. As it’s literally the last day of September, it feels like I lost a month, but such is life.

When are some times you’ve been the most self-connected? What were you doing? Where were you? How did it feel ?

Even when it’s inevitable, death hurts. Initial thoughts about putting my grandma on hospice.

I’ll still continue to provide general topic posts for people to enjoy, but I want the flexibility to write about whatever I’m thinking about or working on at the moment, rather than feeling like I have to stick to the rigid structure I set up for this past year…

The healthy, therapized version of myself is reminding me to stay present even as uncomfortable memories surface from a long-forgotten time in my life, and the creative avoidant version of myself is writing things down to use as content in future projects.

It’s my 40th birthday! Grab a drink, your favorite snack, and a cozy blanket while I get all introspective about life, writing, past mistakes, and the many lives I’ve lived.

I may have a Taurus-heavy chart, but patience has never been one of my strongest personal qualities. Hard-working, persistent, reliable? Sure. But patient? Absolutely not.

Rooted in my own identity as part of the diaspora (mixed 2nd gen Japanese American), these kinds of stories almost always explore the delicate topics of identity and belonging, which I love.

I’m very much a “manage my expectations” kind of person, but I’m finding myself wanting to let go of it in this instance.

Mental health narratives play a crucial role in so many important stories, and as someone personally affected by mental health struggles throughout my life, it’s important to me that my work reflect those realities as well.

My choice to write characters with disabilities is a personal statement in many ways, that our voices matter. But it is also quite simple: I believe all kinds of people, with all kinds of stories, should be able to see themselves in literature and other media.

I’ve benefitted so much from others in the publishing industry—whether authors, agents, or editors—who have shared their experiences and expertise. I’m no expert, but I want to pay it forward by being transparent about my own process.

My choice to write LGBTQ stories is not just about checking boxes; it's a heartfelt commitment to authenticity, visibility, and celebrating the diverse spectrum of love and identity.

Musings on life, aging, and self-discovery as I approach my 40th birthday this year.

2023 was one hell of a year, and 2024 is gearing up to be just as exciting!