“There are seven days in a week and someday isn’t one of them.” Anonymous   

This week I have finally been able to turn my attention back to my own writing. It isn’t easy to get re-acquainted with my characters or their stories particularly after such a long absence. They are likely upset with me. I haven’t forgotten about them, but I definitely have to reorient myself to their lives and what they’ve been up to while I’ve been out gallivanting, as my mother used to say.

As a way to start back, I told myself I would spend an hour a day in front of the screen, in the heads of my characters and see what happens. Not many words have come in the past week, but even a single word is more than I had last week. And one word, leads to another and another. I keep telling myself this and believing.

I’ve also taken the plunge and booked a trip to Greece to complete the first phase of research into my third novel. This trip is made possible through a generous grant I received through Access Copyright. I take this opportunity to thank them. Authors couldn’t do what we do without grants such as these. Thank YOU!

Booking my trip was both exhilarating and terrifying. I’m so glad to be going on yet another adventure with my characters, but I’m not sure how much I’ll find or accomplish. Will I be able to pull off the vision I have for this project? I don’t know, but again, I have to let go of my trepidation and believe what is meant to be will be.

And since confirming my plans, a few doors have in fact opened.

I contacted the former consulate general of Greece who used to be based in Vancouver. I had met him while writing my second novel. I’d asked him for help then to visit refugee and other facilities in Greece. He was instrumental in opening the doors I needed opening. The heart of that novel saw the light of day because of his assistance and unwavering support.

Elias Kremmydas is back in Athens now and I contacted him again. Poor man. I’m sure he thought he got rid of me. I asked him about a museum in Kyparissia I have tried to visit many times without much success. The museum has never been opened when I have been in the village. Why is this museum so important? Well I’m told it houses some of the history I’m writing about in my new novel.

I asked Elias if he knew anyone I could contact to see when the museum would be opened. He sent me a note with the name of the mayor and his phone number.

And he gave me some advice. “Tell him,you are the great Kyparissian Greek-Canadian author, who is planning to write extensively about the town in her next novel, and make sure that the City gives you the time and space to do your research.”

Sweet man! So supportive.

He made my day, and again I was reminded, that when you commit to a goal, people will come along to guide your way and help you succeed. Again, I am very grateful.

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