Tag Archives: Martial Arts

Year in Review 2016

Each year I create a list of goals for every area in my life. Throughout the year I work on those goals, track my progress and my challenges. Then, to keep myself honest, I commit to posting a list of some of my top accomplishments and challenges, and some of my smaller ones as well.

I challenge you to create a list of goals, keep track of them during the year, and then celebrate and post your accomplishments at year end. If you do, please let me know. I’d love to look at your list.

Writing Career

writing1

Novels

Major goal accomplished: I completed the final draft edits and formatting of my 90,000+ word crime novel, Year of the Demon.
Sent Year of the Demon to the Minotaur Books/MWA First Crime Novel competition.
One of my favorite authors read and gave me feedback on the YOTD manuscript.
Commissioned a new cover for Wolves of Vengeance from Lynne Hansen Design.

WOV-Cover-Refresh-web

Currently at 65,000 words of a projected 90k on my paranormal thriller, The Tower (working title). I set this book aside to complete YOTD and to take advantage of some other writing opportunities.
Having seen a publisher’s open call for military horror/creature novels, and having an idea for a novel length story that meets the guidelines, I decided to bring back Captain Amanda Rann from WOV and begin a draft. The open call doesn’t have an end date, and it’s very likely that they’ll close submissions before the novel is complete. If that happens, I’ll be ready when they open again. I’m currently 20,000 words into the manuscript. No matter what, this is a story that has to be written. Another opportunity came up, one with a very defined set of perimeters and end date, and I felt I needed to put this novel on hold for a short time while I worked on the new project. See below:
Another publisher has an open call for novella length fantasy stories of varying sub-genre, fantasy worlds that are inspired by cultures other than the usual stories based on ancient Western civilization. I finally came up with the perfect idea and began writing. I’m over 10k into the story, and hoping I can finish by the 12th of January when they close. This one requires so much research that the deadline may very well be impossible. Tor may extend the date depending on how many viable manuscripts they receive. Either way, I have my fingers crossed.

writing2

Short Stories

Wrote a horror noir short story (5K).
Wrote another horror noir story based on an old story, reinventing it with everything I’ve learned over the years (5K).
Wrote the first draft of a dark fantasy flash fiction story (1K).
Began an edit of a previously written story for an open call anthology but abandoned in favor of a new story.
Began an edit of an old story, but decided to abandon it for now. I might return to it if the right market opens up.
Performed a virtual reading of Sat Down Inside Her from a room at Mohegan Sun. Sat Down Inside Her
Sent out short fiction to 4 markets. I spent most of my time working on long fiction this year.
Wrote two short stories. Again, I decided to spend my time on novels this year.

Networking

Wrote reviews of books I enjoyed.
Included in a writing round table with some fantastic authors.

Down and Dirty: The Ultimate Writer’s Round Table Joust: Part 1

Down and Dirty: The Ultimate Writer’s Round Table Joust: Part 2

Martial Arts

Celebrated 29 years of formal martial arts practice 1987 – present. Next year will be 30 years!
Attended Raffi Derderian‘s Kali and Jeet Kune Do seminar at the Metrowest Academy of Jiu Jitsu. Trained with Master Tony.

kali-jujutsu

Made some fun martial arts videos:

Early Morning Kali Stick Work

Shadowboxing Workout

Ukemi on Hard Ground

Trained with my friends Master Tony and Ms. Adrienne
Attended the Raffi Derderian Kali seminar at Britt’s Tae Kwon Do in Gardner, MA.

kali-gardner

kali-gardner-2

Attended a benefit for the legendary Sigung Taky Kimura at Derderian Academy of Martial arts. Trained under two of Sigung Taky’s top students in Bruce Lee’s original Jun Fan Gung Fu/Jeet Kune D0. They came all the way from the Jun Fan Gung Fu Institute of Seattle.

taky-benefit-1

taky-benefit-2

taky-benefit-3

I brought my old Wave Master Training Bag into the corner of the living room and put down a puzzle mat to create a small dojo/dojang/kwoon in the living room! Don’t tell my wife! 😉
Attended Master Larry Tatum’s Kenpo Karate Seminar at the Derderian Academy.

tatum-kenpo

Worked on Kali stick work, Panantukan – Filipino Boxing, and JKD mitt drills with Patty in our home training group.
Practiced Kali Sinawali and single stick drills
Worked JKD boxing drills and all my kicks, on training bag.
Utilizing JKD and FMA as a conduit, I was able to integrate all previous martial arts training. This has taken me years to accomplish.
Focused on Naihanchi (Tekki) Sam Dan & Jindo (Gankaku Kai) forms.

Health

Had two ophthalmologist appointments. Glaucoma medication increased.
Had two dental cleanings. Began using fluoride rinse.
Got an eye infection. Antibiotic eye drops cleared it up.
Had annual physical and taken off of low oxalate diet.
My weight has fluctuated, but overall it is down.
Increased weight training.

Family

Called my Mom & Dad 2x each week.
Had lunch with my parents and took them to see 13 Hours at the cinema.
Had lunch at Olive Garden with the in-laws/outlaws.
Celebrated our grandniece’s birthday.
Visited my Mom & Dad at Foxwoods.
Visited Mom after attending a martial arts seminar in the area.
Celebrated our 21st wedding anniversary.
Breakfast with outlaws at Meadowbrook Orchard.
Helped my uncle with a computer issue.
Attended an educational PowWow at the Foxwood’s Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center with my parents and danced with my Mom

Visited the outlaws new townhouse.
Brought my parents to see a movie in Worcester.
Contacted my brother and let him know about money the state owed him.
Celebrated our 24th anniversary of our 1st date.
Had breakfast with my Mom & Dad in Webster.
Kept in contact with my aunt.
Visited my father-in-law for lunch and fixed his wifi and set up his laptop.
Had Thanksgiving breakfast with my Mom & Dad
Donated in my sister’s name.
Sent my grand niece to see Doctor Strange.
Visited my parents for a pre-Christmas/Hanukkah breakfast and then went to the Townsend Rod & Gun Club where my Dad taught me how to load and shoot a black powder rifle.

black-powder

Attended my niece’s baby shower.
Attended Christmas gathering at the outlaws.
Became a Great Uncle for the 3rd time.

baby

Went to see Adam Carolla at Foxwoods. Ate at Junior’s Deli.

Car

Patty’s car – Inspection, oil change, wheels rotated and balanced, brake job, airbag recall, replaced broken sun visor, replaced ignition coil (under warranty) and wires.
My car – B service, wipers, airbag recall, replaced battery, brake job.
Had an accident in my car and had car repaired.
Had a part fail and had to go back and have them replace the part.

House

General maintenance and cleaning.
Fixed TV by taking it apart and cleaning the fan.
Replaced bathroom rugs.
Changed the high/low return air registers for Summer & Winter.
Maintained air cleaners.
Cleaned out house and brought junk to dumpster provided by the association.
Replaced a burnt out AC capacitor in our central AC unit.
Created a small dojo by installing puzzle mats.
Took down old shades and installed curtains in the living room and dining area.
Removed and installed new blinds in bedroom.
Patty utilized a shredding day to get rid of our confidential documents at work.
Cleaned behind the fridge and stopped it from overheating.

Travel

Portland Maine – Stayed at the Portland Regency Hotel & Spa. Went to Holy Donut, dinner at the Armory Lounge where they played blues music and we relaxed and had drinks. I tried Woodford Reserve Bourbon on the rocks and enjoyed it. Irish pub, Elevation Burger, hotel restaurant. We poked around the shops. Jewish Museum. Alex & Ani.

Mohegan Sun – I turned Patty’s three day work seminar into a writing retreat. While Patty was at the seminar I stayed in the deluxe king room and worked on a novel. We ate at Summer Shack, Michael Jordan’s 22 Sports Cafe. I tried a Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon and l really enjoyed it.

Bronx Zoo – We visited the Congo area, saw the Gorilla exhibit, rode the monorail, and went to jungle world. We also saw sea lions yelling at each other.

Boston – Stayed at the Onyx Hotel on the Penthouse level. Ate at Boston Beer Works. Had a good time.

That’s it for 2016. See you in 2017… HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Review of Solo Training 3 50 and Older

Beginner Filipino Double Stick Techniques taught by Guro Raffi Derderian.

April and May in Review

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April was a challenging month to say the least. Had to use much time and energy to deal with some issues. May was a much better month, but very busy on the positive side.

Challenges

My insurance company billed incorrectly for an ER visit last year. This led to the hospital trying to bill me for the difference, and before I could get it resolved they sent it to a collections agency. Many phone calls, letters, and much stress later, it now seems to be resolved. It only took a month and a half.
A family member had a work challenge that continues. I can’t divulge much, but suffice it to say that it has taken time and stress to get it resolved.
We had a neighborhood issue that required phone calls and letters to resolve, and we’re still monitoring the situation.
Patty contracted and got over a bronchial infection.
We had to resolve a wireless network issue in May.
The sun was in my eyes!

Writing

Short Fiction

Halloween’s Child Redux continues slowly, now clocking in at 3,500 words or 14 pages.
Wrote a 30 word bio for AnthoCon.
Here’s the official cover reveal for Wicked Tales, an anthology that includes my short SF/Horror story, “Sat Down Inside Her.”

Novels

The Tower (Paranormal Haunting/Woman in Jeopardy Crime Thriller) Now at 106 pages or 26,250 words. I’ve had to hunker back to move forward, requiring some fun research into Wing Chun Kung Fu as well as significant research into the nursing profession.
Year of the Demon (Conspiracy/Crime Thriller) I polish edited approximately twenty scenes, and I like how it’s all coming together. The actual editing is a tedious slog, however. This is the part I like the least. The only thing more tedious is the final proofread where I work thorough the book fixing typos and commas.

Non-Fiction

I began work on a non-fiction project that I may write under a pseudonym. I wrote 2,389 words or 9 pages.

Reading

Completed the Indy Author’s Pack.
Became a backer of Editor Rick Schober’s The Whole Shot: Interviews with Beat Poet Gregory Corso.
Purchased the Signed & Numbered Limited Edition novella (#18) of Baby’s Breath by Sydney Leigh.

Family

Called my Mom & Dad approx 1x per week.
Brought Patty to her dentist appointment and yearly physical.
Got haircuts.
Took care of Patty while she had a bronchial infection.
Visited my Mom & Dad in Webster for a Mother’s Day breakfast.
Spent a couple days at Mohegan Sun while my wife was in a seminar.
Made a 20th Wedding Anniversary trip to Kittery, ME. I figured some retail therapy was in order after dealing with me all these years.

Martial Arts

After Patty felt better we resumed the Filipino punching and kicking drills. We also worked in some basic boxing drills on focus mitts.
Purchased a new set of Hayabusa Ikusa focus mitts.
I practiced footwork drills.
Practiced sinawali stick drills.

Health

Lost 2 pounds of fat. I continue to move in the right direction, and now I’m at the lowest weight that I have been in years.
Resumed physical therapy leg exercises.
Worked with Tufts to resolve a billing issue.
Weened off of Protonix.

Financial

Leveraged taxes to a tax preparer.
Made tax payments.

Charity & Community Service

Relay for life.
Nepal Relief Efforts .

Cars

Went to the dealer for C service and to replace the driver’s side headlight on Patty’s car.
Washed my car including undercarriage.
Washed Patty’s car including undercarriage.

House

Spent a significant amount of time Spring cleaning our townhouse.
Cleaned and polished kitchen cabinets.
Fixed scuff on kitchen table with wood markers.
Fixed scuff on floor with wood markers.
Rearranged living room and reappropriated organizing furniture from other rooms to cut down on clutter.
Changed HVAC filter.
Cleaned foyer.
Pulled everything out of the spare room and cleaned.
Prepped HVAC Vents for summer.
Resolved neighborhood issues.

Fun

Julio’s liquors.
New York Deli in Westboro.
Researched trips for May.

May

We ate at Juniors NY Deli at Foxwoods and then went to see The Tenderloins/Tru TV Impractical Jokers at the Foxwoods Grand Theater. We had center balcony seats. Great seats and a great show.

Visited the new Cabelas in Berlin, MA.
Went to Mohegan Sun with Patty. We stayed in a Deluxe King Room, ate at Summer Shack. Then while Patty was in her seminar I had the breakfast Buffet, then a Starbucks iced Cold Brew with soy milk. Then I played some video poker and quit while I was ahead. The rest of the day I used the room as my writing retreat. After Patty got out of the seminar we had dinner at the buffet then played video poker and slots. The next day found me at the buffet. After Patty finished her seminar we played some more video poker. I won $10.00 in slot play, turned it into $36.00 and then cashed out. Haha! A win is a win! Then we poked around Brookstone, avoiding the sales girl. Another round of Starbucks and we were homeward bound.

Stayed overnight at the Coachman Inn in Kittery, ME. Shopped at the outlets and then had a nice dinner at Weathervane. The Inn provided breakfast the next morning. Then we shopped more and went to Kittery Trading Post. Back to Weathervane for lunch, and then some Starbucks Cold Brew to fortify us as we fought the Memorial Day traffic home.

Movies

Ender’s Game ** 1/2 I found this movie fun but it lacked an indefinable something.

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes ** After all the hype surrounding this film, I was left disappointed. I found it vapid and cliche.

Personal Development

To get myself back on track I began listening to the Anthony Robbins audio program Get the Edge again.
Completed the goal setting workshop to fine tune my life’s direction.

March in Review

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The momentum continues… I guess this is turning into a newsletter of my life. I hope it’s inspiring you to keep a list of your challenges and accomplishments throughout the year. I promise you that goal setting will change your life.

Writing

Short fiction

I signed the contract for inclusion in the 3rd annual New England Horror Writers anthology. You’ll be able to find my horror science fiction story “Sat Down Inside Her” in that collection this summer.
Halloween’s Child Redux–the reimagining of this horror thriller short story has been slow going, but I’m already 3,500 words in. That’s 500 words over the original word count. I’m thinking this one could end up at 6k+ by the time it’s complete. A new title will, of course, go with this new version.
I also worked on the reimagining of another short story (I never list short story titles until they sell. This way editors won’t have any way of knowing how long my story has been in circulation once it lands in their slush pile. I’m tricky like that). I had already completed the new version of the story, but wasn’t happy with the ending. I found a way to strengthen the conclusion, but I have no idea where this will find a home.
I began reading the new issue of The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction with an eye toward submission. We’ll see if I get any ideas.

Novels

Year of the Demon (Conspiracy/Crime Thriller): I’m slogging through the edits on this 90,000 word novel. I need to spend more time on this polish edit, and then go onto the next phase of the process.
The Tower (Paranormal Haunting/Woman in Jeopardy Crime Thriller): I’m now just under 25,000 words, approximately 97 pages.
Proxy Mate (Dystopian SF): I ended up putting this novella on hold this month. We’ll have to see what next month brings. I still feel pretty good about this one.

Reading

I finished The Vanishing Magic of Snow by Reb MacRath and deemed it a MacRathian Masterpiece. You can read my review here.
I’m still working through the Indie Author Power Pack. I’m 68% in and just finished Let’s get Digital.
I read and enjoyed Richard Chizmar’s The Box. The story is available to read through free pdf. Follow the link to give it a read.
My copy of Submerged (signed Limited Edition) by Tom Monteleone arrived. It’s a beautiful book. I hope there’s an e-version eventually. The book is so nice I’m afraid to crack it open.

Networking

I continued to keep up with my writer friends on social media.
I bought passes to Anthocon.
I made reservations at the hotel for the convention weekend.
I continued to work on editing a novella for a writer friend. I’ve been very slow getting to the edits.

Marketing

I researched using MailChimp for a mailing list. I read that mailing lists are the most underutilized marketing tool in a writer’s tool chest. I learned that to meet federal law I need to list my address in the signature of any emails I send out. This would mean getting a P.O box or mail drop if I want to ensure my privacy. I’m going to wait at this point, but I’ll keep it on the radar.

Family

Called my Mom & Dad twice a week on average this month.
Called my Aunt and wished her a happy birthday.
Donated to ONE Spirit in my sister’s name.
We got haircuts.
Put a St. Paddy’s Day card as a surprise in Patty’s lunch.
Sent a B-Day card to one of my nephews.

Martial Arts

Purchased Ron Balicki‘s Filipino boxing DVD set. I was really amazed at how much information he included in this set. I had the opportunity to watch a sample of the JKD video set and was very impressed with the production, the breadth of information, and the clarity of instruction on the DVD set. I decided to begin with Filipino Boxing, but I’m sure I’ll be picking up his 8 disk JKD instructors series in the near future.
Luckily, because of my 27+ years of experience in martial arts, along with a pervious teacher who integrated some Filipino martial arts and Jeet Kune Do Concepts into our training (he never mentioned it, but because of my research, I can see it now), and a small amount of Kali and Bruce Lee’s “Original” JKD training from seminars, I’ve been able to incorporate the drills and concepts into our home training.
We worked Filipino boxing (punching and kicking drills) 2x a week. We also began working on a joint locking flow drill. Patty has found this curriculum the most interesting of any martial arts we’ve practiced.
I continued to practice Kali sinawali.
I continued to practice the chain punching/straight blasts I learned from Sigung Taky Kuimura and his staff.
A Kali Guro invited us to stop up and train on a Tuesday night. It’s been a little difficult lately to make the time commitment, but it was very nice to be invited. Hopefully we’ll be able to stop up soon.

Fitness & Health

I lost just about two pounds of fat this month. Notice I said fat. I didn’t say water or muscle. That’s an important distinction. I’ve lost almost an inch off my belly and a half inch off my waist.
I’m still working to get out of the Biphasic sleeping pattern. I tend to go to sleep too late and wake up too early, requiring that I nap before doing anything that requires cognitive function. New habits need to be established in order to permanently change my schedule.
I grabbed a pair of Reebok Crossfit 2.0 cross training sneakers. I’ve been wearing them during all my workouts and martial arts training. They’ve been great on my feet and very good for my knees.
I continue using MyFitnessPal to log my calories. You can’t manage what you don’t measure.

Cars

The terrible roads and potholes caused a sidewall bubble in one of Patty’s tires. Fortunately and unfortunately she only had the tires for six month. On the fortunately side, the tires were new enough that we only had to buy one new tire.

Finances

We had purchased MONEY Master the Game by Anthony Robbins in ebook and I also had a chance to sample the audio from the first chapter. I belive that’s the only chapter that AR reads. I also found a great summary of the key points that was left in an Amazon review. Here’s the key points that I put in my notes.

Understand the power of compound interest and save/invest 10-20% of your income.
You can’t beat the market.
Fees kill your returns. Look at America’s Best 401(k) or Fees to see how your 401(k) fairs.
Hire an independent fiduciary adviser.
Use a Roth IRA or Roth 401(k) and pay taxes now as much as possible, since they are likely to rise in the future.
Forget Target Date or actively managed mutual funds. Use index funds instead.
Know how much you need in order to retire (use the free app to find some rough numbers. Make sure to take inflation into account since the app doesn’t do that)
Come up with a solid asset allocation: a secure bucket (bonds, CDs, cash, etc) and a growth bucket (stocks, real estate, commodities, etc). Re-balance regularly. Take the Rutgers University risk tolerance quiz to find out how much risk you can stomach.

Naturally, I keep my finances close to my vest and don’t share much online. That doesn’t mean I’m not working on this category, though.

House

Continued general cleaning and maintenance.
Wrote up a project plan for next month’s Spring cleaning.

Whisky Tasting and Mixology

Patty and I have never been big drinkers but we’re having fun exploring the world of liquor and wine. We purchased a double walled cocktail shaker and a jigger and I’ve been playing the part of mixologist, whipping up whiskey sours and matadors.
I tried a sample bottle of Glenmorangie Lasanta 12. It’s aged in sherry casks. This whisky isn’t very complex, but has a nice mouth burn and is very enjoyable on a cold night.
I tasted Glen Garioch 1797 founder’s Reserve. I got sucked in by advertised characteristic. They claim sweet vanilla, butterscotch, fresh green fruits, sweet buttercream, and citrus. It tastes like cough syrup and leather to me. Actually, it tastes like Talisker 10 without the peat. I can only stomach it in very small drams.
We visited Julio’s Liquors in Westboro. They have a great selection.

Personal Development

I revisited the Anthony Robbins Time of Your Life/RPM audio program.

Began reading The Winning Mind Set by Jim Brault and Kevin Seaman. Kevin Seaman was gracious enough to sign and inscribe a copy for me. My first impression is that it’s a very nice personal development workbook. Much of its contents are grounded in NLP and cognitive behavioral psychology. Great stuff! I think it will make a great refresher. And since both of the writers are also martial artists, I think I’ll enjoy many of their illustrative examples. I plan to work through each section and see where it takes me.

Movies

Non-Stop *** Better than I expected. Implausible ending.

Magic Moments

We came home to a small (what we believe to be a) screech owl perched on the light by our garage. The owl’s eyes were but slits in the daylight, but he still watched us as we made our way inside. Once we closed the door, he puffed his body out for warmth and went to sleep. As soon as the sun set he took flight to destinations unknown. I take the owl’s visit as a good omen of positive change to come. Here’s a photo of our unlikely visitor. Owl

That’s about it for March. See you in April…hopefully sooner.

February in Review

2 Replies

In an attempt to keep up the momentum with this blog, I’ve decided to give you another update. This one will list out what I worked on during the month of February. It hasn’t been bad for a short month.

Writing

Short Fiction

I received and approved the galley proof edits of my SF/Horror story “Sat Down Inside Her” that will appear in the 3rd annual New England Horror Writer’s anthology. Also, provided an updated bio for the book.
I began work on a reimagining of an unsold 3k short story formerly known as Halloween’s Child. Having learned a lot about crafting a salable story since I wrote the original version in 2011, I was hit with a bit of inspiration on how I might make it viable. I’ve already tacked on a new opening scene and smoothed out the writing. Much like my novel WOLVES OF VENGEANCE, this story combines horror with the thriller genre. And I’m definitely expanding the thriller component. The horror thriller is kinda becoming my thing.

Novels

Year of the Demon (Conspiracy/Crime Thriller): I continued working on the 3rd draft of this 90,000 word novel. As I really dig in and polish the work I realize how much I’ve learned since I began writing this draft. The polishing stage is always the most frustrating and the most rewarding. So much needs to be fixed and rearranged, but it’s always fulfilling when the work is near to its final form.
The Tower (Paranormal Haunting/Woman in Jeopardy Crime Thriller): I’m now approximately 20,250 or 81 pages into the first draft of this novel. So far, it feels like the best thing I’ve ever written. And yes, this novel would be considered a horror or supernatural thriller.
Proxy Mate (Dystopian SF): I haven’t made a lot of progress on this novella. My process is to work on multiple stories at a time. If I get stuck on one I just let it sit while I work on something else. I also tend to move back and forth between stories during my writing time. I’ve found I’m more productive this way, but some stories fall by the wayside. I’m sure I’ll get back to it in the month of March. As it stands, I’m 11,250 words or 45 pages into this novella.
Wolves of Vengeance (Multi-Genre Supernatural Thriller): Wolves received a very nice review this month. Take a look if you have a chance: http://davoortwilbo.blogspot.com/2015/02/david-north-martinos-wolves-of-vengeance.html

Reading

I finished A Different Kind of Slumber by Doug Rinaldi. You can find my review here.
I’m still working on the Indie Writer’s Pack. I’m 50% in and reading Let’s get Digital.
I started The Vanishing Magic of Snow by Reb MacRath and am 30% of the way in and loving it.

Networking

Continued editing a novella for a writer friend.
Helped a writer friend with research.
Kept up with writer friends on social media.

Family

Called my Mom & Dad twice a week on average this month.
Called my Aunt and Uncle to thank them for a gift.
Burned CDs for my Mom & Aunt.
Visited my Mom & Dad for breakfast.
Celebrated my birthday (Just like Jack Benny, I’ve had another 39th birthday).
Gave Patty roses for Valentine’s Day.
Sent my nephew a copy of the Signed Limited Edition Hardcover of The Zombie Survival Guide by Max Brooks for his birthday.

Martial arts

Another month where I unfortunately didn’t make any seminars.

Five rounds of shadow boxing 2-3 times a week with Patty.
Practiced Kali sinawali solo and with Patty.
Practiced Ukemi skills.

Fitness & Health

Lost two pounds of fat this month. Slow and steady–I’ll take it.
I’ve been in a biphasic sleeping pattern. Next month I need to change my schedule to allow for more sleep time during the night.
Had a Field of Vision Test. The test came out perfectly. I have no glaucoma damage.
Had an appointment with my glaucoma specialist. He changed my eye drops to a lower dosage of medication, and moved me over from a generic to a brand name. He gave me a discount card to reduce the cost of the medication.

Sales

We sold our Wii that had been sitting in the entertainment center gathering dust.

House

I cleaned out and organized the entertainment center.
I unplugged any electronics we haven’t been using to save on the electric bill.
General cleaning and maintenance.

Whisky Tasting

I tried Glenfiddich 12 this month. I find it has a smoother taste, less complex, more candied, more like a bourbon, and less mouth burn/heat. I like it best of all the whisky I’ve tried.

Movies Watched

Not a big month for movies. Busy, busy, busy!

After Earth: ** mediocre, muddled, miscast.

That’s it for February. March is already coming on full force and swinging for the rafters. More soon…

January in Review

YEAR IN REVIEW 2013

2 Replies

Each year I create a list of goals for every area in my life. Throughout the year I work on these goals, track my progress and my challenges. Then, to keep myself honest, I commit to posting a list of some of my top accomplishments and challenges and some of my smaller ones as well.

Writing Career

We lost way too many writers this year, so many that it’s staggering to think about. May they all rest in peace.

Novels

WOLVES OF VENGEANCE

This year I competed a major life goal. I decided to independently publish a short novel/novella as an e-book on Amazon. I’ve been working on this book for a long time, and it was a great learning experience to do this on my own. For my next (full-length) novel, I’m going to reach out to an agent and/or traditional publishers. Here’s a list that gives a good idea of how I completed this goal.

Completed my final edits of Wolves of Vengeance.
Patty completed line edit.
I completed implementing Patty’s edits
Sent Wolves of Vengeance to beta readers
Commissioned a cover from Carl Graves.
Worked on secondary material.
Beta readers sent back positive comments.
Cover delivered.
Posted cover on Facebook and received positive feedback.
Updated my bibliography on Amazon Author Central.
Uploaded edited manuscript to Scrivener.
Researched Independent publishing.
Contacted Tracy DeVore and hired her to edit the novel.
Tracy completed initial edits.
I implemented Tracy’s initial edits.
Returned edits to Tracy for final review.
Implemented Tracy’s final edits after editorial approval.
Wrote dedication, copyright, and acknowledgment pages.
Uploaded final from Word into Scrivener and formatted for Kindle.
Began research for Createspace formatting.
Reviewed formatting on Kindle previewer. Everything seemed fine.
Began Kindle marketing research.
Wrote email letters to those I acknowledged in the book and sent out copies.
Had Patty edit back copy.
Uploaded book to Amazon on September 9^th 2013.
After discover discrepancies in formation on different devices, I stopped promotion and fixed mobi file (approximately 2 weeks).
Chose initial reviewers and sent e-copies to them.
Became a top 100 Amazon author in the Psychic Suspense category #15 and on the same page as Stephen King and Peter Straub.
Received first royalties from Amazon in November.
Possible package deal with best selling authors in the works.
Reached out to top 500 reviews.
Received a couple of nice reviews on Amazon and one on Goodreads.

WOLVES OF VENGEANCE

YEAR OF THE DEMON (A Dark Crime Thriller)

I completed a first draft and worked on a second draft of this novel. I hope to have it completed and polished in a couple of months.

Finished 1^st draft.
I let the 1^st draft cool.
Began first read through and light edit and took notes.
Created an outline based on the material I had already written.
Completed a main character character arc.
Worked on scenes for a main character to increase his presence in the book and completed them.

Began 2^nd draft. At the time of this posting I’m at approximately 80,000 words or 308 pages.
Patty read first 100 pages and gave positive feedback
Sent first 100 pages to beta reader who is also an author and received positive feedback

Non fiction

Began writing and sketching out an outline for an anti-bullying book.

Short Fiction

I had a fantastic year for short fiction sales. To accomplish this I wrote new stories, fixed up old ones, submitted to markets, and networked

Sent short stories to 12 markets.
Wrote 3 new short stories.
Sold 6 stories. That’s a personal best!

Sold “Phantom Chasers to From Beyond the Grave, published by Grinning Skull Press and edited by Michael Evans.
Signed contract.
Received Kindle and print contributor copies.
Received payment.
Received positive feedback from anonymous author who is a friend of the editor: “Phantom Chasers: Another good one. A very unusual idea which was extremely well executed. Even as short as it is, the character development is pretty damned good. We know who these people are in just a few lines. The foreshadowing… is a mite obvious, but it doesn’t matter. We KNOW that someone’s going to…die from very early on, but the author makes it work anyway…”

FROM BEYOND THE GRAVE

My story “The Mesomorphic Woman” was the lead story in the Daughter’s of Icarus anthology, published by Pink Narcissus Press, and edited by Josie Brown. (This is the first time one of my stories has been featured as a lead).
Received Kindle and print contributor copies.

“Strong pieces offer memorable takes on the notion of feminism in speculative fiction.” – Library Journal

“…A classic anthology on par with Pamala Sargent’s Woman of Wonder series…” – Publishers Weekly

DAUGHTERS OF ICARUS

Invited by Editor of Dark Dreams podcast to submit short story for podcast.
Revised “Graven Image” for audio.
I submitted “Graven Image” and it was accepted for audio. (This is the first time one of my stories has been produced for audio).
Story compared to the works of Charles Beaumont and Robert Block.
“Graven Image” featured in Dark Dreams podcast and read by E.S. Wynn. (1:30)
Graven Image
Interviewed by Mark Slade on Dark Dreams podcast (first audio interview) (11:56)
Interview

Revised “Schrödinger’s Parachute” and retitled to “The Interloper.”
Submitted “The Interloper” to Anthology: Year Two: Inner Demons Out.
Received acceptance in the mail.
Sold story to Anthology: Year Two: Inner Demons Out.
Signed contract.
Received contributor copy at AnthoCon.
Read a portion of “The Interloper” at AnthoCon.
Sent out invoice for payment.

ANTHOLOGY: YEAR TWO: INNER DEMONS OUT

Submitted “Stone Butterfly” to Cellar Door anthology.
Editor requested an additional scene to improve flow of story.
Fixed inconstancy in villain’s name.
Stone Butterfly accepted into Cellar Door anthology.
Signed contract and sent back..
I received contributor copy.
Cellar Door won a Gothic Readers Choice Award.

CELLAR DOOR

Editor Invited me into UK publisher Horrified Press’s Nightmare Illustrated Issue #2.
Sent “Staring at Me.”
The story was accepted.
Signed contract and returned.
Received first royalty payment.

NIGHTMARE ILLUSTRATED

Editor sent last royalty payment for Extinct Doesn’t Mean Forever and “The Language of Ice” single because they were going out of digital print.
Editor sent me the corrected Word file for “Language of Ice.”

Networking

Acted as a beta reader for a writer friend.
Attended the New England Horror Writers (NEHW) spring mixer at Ritual in Worcester.
Attended ANTHOLOGY (AnthoCon).
Assisted other writers with promotion.
Wrote reviews for some of the books I enjoyed.
Assisted an editor in creation of a MOBI file.

Family

Lit a candle for my sister on the anniversary of her passing.
Celebrated Patty’s birthday at the Weathervane Restaurant in Kittery Maine.
Flowers for Patty on Valentines Day.
Celebrated my birthday at the New China Buffet.
Celebrated 18 years of marriage and 21 years together.
Had Passover dinner with Patty.
Had Easter dinner at the In-laws.
Called my Aunt/Godmother for her Birthday.
Brought Patty for her checkup.
Called Mom & Dad once per week.
Had Mom & Dad over the house. Presented Dad with his Black Belt. Went to the range with my Dad. Then we ate at the Outback for a late lunch.
Called my Bro.
Visited my Dad, Mom, Brother, Sis-in-law, and their in-laws for Father’s Day at Foxwoods.
Sent a series of martial arts master portraits to my Dad .
Spent 4^th of July at In-laws.
Visited Mom & Dad at Foxwoods for Mom’s birthday.
Met Mom & Aunt/Godmother at Johnny Rockets at Twin River.
Visited In-laws and Grandniece and Grandnephew.
Visited Mom & Dad for their Anniversary at Foxwoods.
Attended Patty’s work event at the Franklin Park Zoo.
Reconnected with an old high school friend.
Wrote a letter of reference for a long time friend.
Pre-Thanksgiving meal with my parents.
Thanksgiving at my in-laws.
Scheduled to meet my family in January.
Christmas with in-laws.

Martial Arts

Presented my Dad with Black Belt Certificate.

Bought a one-year membership to MFS.
Attended Marlboro G&K show.
Celebrated 26 years in the martial arts.
Continued MMA conditioning workouts.
Continued my own martial arts training along with modern and archaic weaponry and forms.
Completed modified P90X challenge.
Began teaching Patty martial arts again with an emphasis on kickboxing.
Continued Bunkai research.
Added additional stretching to martial arts training.

Health

I met every health goal I had this year except for losing weight. My weight fluctuated throughout the year, but I did gain some muscle and flexibility. I will create a refined plan to accomplish my goal of losing twenty pounds for next year.

Dental cleaning x2.
Added muscle through P90X.
Edit: I lost 6 pounds of fat, gained 4.5 pounds of water, and gained 8.25 pounds of lean body mass (muscle).
Eye pressure dropped from 22 to 14 on the new medication. My left eye improved.
Had blood work completed for physical.
Had a great physical.
Joined an online medical portal.
Got a flu shot.
Joined Planet Fitness for 2014. Insurance covered most of the cost.

Challenges:

Started off the year recovering from bronchitis.
Broke tooth, had a temporary crown Installed.
Had permanent crown installed.
Had two cavities filled.

Cars

Both cars passed inspection.
All normal maintenance on cars completed.
Had airbag sensor replaced in my car, 2 warranty repairs and B service, new tires.
Patty’s car warranty repair, B service, blower motor repair, 3 tires sealed, 60K maintenance, wiper blades, flush, bulb replacements, break line checked.

Challenges:

Patty’s car was sideswiped by a hit and run driver while at work
Scheduled appointment and had fixed at Liberty Auto. They did a great job making the repair.

Charity & Community Service

Made donations in memory of my sister.
United Way Lantern Society.
Wrote letters to my representatives.
Voted in MA Special Election.

House

General maintenance.
Spring cleaning completed.
Cleaned study.
Cleaned garage. Utilized association scheduled dumpster to get rid of a lot of junk.
Had AC coils replaced. Victory honored warrantee even though it had expired a month earlier.
Put in upstairs window screens.
Put up hooks in garage hall for brooms and mops.
Replaced cover for the patio table.
Replaced HVAC filter at regular intervals.

Planning

Continued using Opus Domini for daily and weekly planning in conjunction with Anthony Robbins RPM.

Fun & Travel

Margaritas in CT.
Cabalas in CT.
Chili’s in Burlington.
Kittery Trading Post in ME.
Weathervane in Kittery ME.
Rein’s Delli in Vernon CT.
Iron Man 3 at IMAX Providence.
Watched Mayweather fight on HBO.
Penn & Teller at the Foxwoods Theater.
Star Trek Into Darkness IMAX 3D .
Man of Steel at IMAX .
Pinkberry in RI.
Sonic in CT.
Trained in basic strategy for Jacks or Better video poker.
The Big E in Springfield.
Watched the Red Sox go from worst to first and win the World Series.
Capriotti’s in Foxboro.
Roger Williams Zoo, RI.
Portsmouth New Hampshire.
Watched Ronda Rousey retain her belt on PPV.

Spiritual

Continued praying at night and saying affirmations in the morning.

That’s about it for 2013. Watch out 2014… here I come!

2012 Goals Accomplished…Now onto 2013!

2 Replies

“Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain’t all sunshine and rainbows. It is a very mean and nasty place and it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain’t how hard you hit; it’s about how hard you can get hit, and keep moving forward…That’s how winning is done!”–Rocky Balboa

This was a challenging year. My sister died and her death pretty much shut me down for half the year. The sensation was not unlike getting knocked for a loop in a boxing match and then running on instinct for the rest of the round, doing everything you can to keep your wobbly legs underneath you. Then, with the weather better, we held the memorial and relived it all over again. And never mind the holidays. My sister was born on Thanksgiving and that didn’t make the end of the year any easier

Then, an all around great guy and master martial artist, John Frigon died after a long illness. He seemed so healthy and full of life the last time I saw him, but the illness took him hard and quick.

I had some health issues as well this year. But I made it through with the help of family and friends and trying to keep my mind on my work. I learned a lot this year and think I was able to accomplish quite a bit considering the circumstances.

Professional:

Writing Career (The Pen)

Novels:

Wolves of Vengeance: I wrote character arc outlines and rewrote each character arc, adding scenes and deleting scenes where necessary. Patty went through and proofread the manuscript. I would have liked to have WOV completed by year-end, but I’m happy with the progress.

Year of the Demon: I began a reimagining of this novel, a martial arts thriller that I began in 2006 but eventually abandoned. I finally understood what I needed to do to make the story work. I completed the first draft of this novel.

Short Stories:

I submitted 10 short stories to magazine and anthology markets.

I wrote 5 short stories this year.

I sold 3 short stories this year. That’s a personal best!

The Extinct Anthology earned out its advance, and I began receiving royalty checks. A big thank you to everyone who either bought a copy or helped us move up in Amazon’s rankings by grabbing a free copy. Extinct cracked the top 100 free books in contemporary fiction. We’re also sporting a new cover.

The Epitaphs Anthology became a Bram Stoker Award finalist.

My short story “The Mesomorphic Woman” was accepted into the Daughter’s of Icarus anthology to be published by Pink Narcissus Press in 2013. I signed the contract and cashed the check. Now, I’m just waiting for a publication date.

My short story “The Hours of Sleep” was accepted into You Can’t Kill Me, I’m Already Dead: A Vampire Anthology published by Zombie Works Publications. I signed the contract. This anthology is available now as a trade paperback. I’ve been told that an ebook is in the works.

http://www.amazon.com/You-cant-kill-already-dead/dp/1481170627/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1356967380&sr=8-1&keywords=You+can%27t+kill+me%2C+I%27m+already+dead

My short story “Phantom Chasers” was accepted into the From Beyond the Grave Anthology to be published by Grinning Skull Press. I’m looking forward to publication sometime in 2013.

Networking

Paid HWA dues.

I attended a New England Horror Writers (NEHW) meeting held at Ritual in Worcester. Fun was had by all!

An author asked me to blurb her book and I was happy to oblige.

Paying it Forward:

I had a couple of young writers reach out to me looking for advice. I’m still in the beginning of my career, but I tried to give them some advice and point them in the right direction.

Martial Arts (The Sword)

Progress:

Took the opportunity to train in Jung Ki Kwan Hapkido with Master Phil and Master John.

Took the opportunity to train at Britt’s Tae Kwon Do.

Trained with martial arts friends.

Expanded my library of martial arts books and videos.

Added Bas Rutten’s MMA style interval training to my repertoire.

Celebrated 25 years of training in the martial arts.

Earned my next black belt ranking in Tang Soo Do from Master Rhee.

I was internationally recognized as an advanced Japanese Jujutsu black belt

Promoted my first black belt student.

Promoted another private student to brown belt.

Tragedy: Sadly Jung Ki Master John Frigon passed away after a long illness. He will be missed.

Personal:

Family

Tragedy:

My sister Danielle Shoshanna Martino died in January. She will be forever remembered and missed.

I helped my parents clean out my sister’s apartment along with my Brother and sister-in-law.

Went through a mourning period.

Said kaddish and lit a candle in memory of my sister for 7 days.

Gave charity in memory of my sister.

Increased visits and phone calls to my Mom & Dad during the first half of the year.

Attended my Sister’s memorial in NH and visited with my Dad’s side of the family.

Celebrated Patty’s birthday.

Celebrated my birthday.

Visited and went out to eat with Mom, Dad and Godmother for Mother’s Day.

Attended my nephew’s H.S. Graduation Party.

Attended Father’s Day BBQ at In-laws.

Celebrated my Mother’s birthday at Foxwoods.

Summer BBQ at In-laws.

Visited my nephew Michael’s new apartment and helped move in some furniture.

Thanksgiving with my Family at Foxwoods.

Christmas with in-laws..

Health

Challenges and setbacks:

Between martial arts and other exercise training I reinjured my shoulder, injured my hand, wrist and forearm, strained my back and neck, and twisted my knee. I also lacerated my thumb, and had to get a tetanus shot. I had a cist on the back of my neck that caused some pain but ultimately didn’t have to be removed (my brother had the same thing so it must run in the family). To top it all off I had a small cavity that needed to be filled and I came down with the flu.

My eye doctor put me on a glaucoma preventive eye drop. Glaucoma runs in my family and this should keep me from getting the disease.

Progress

Lost 5 pounds of fat, reduced 3 inches on my waist, and gained muscle.

Bought a pair of prescription sun glasses.

Yearly physical went perfectly except that I needed to lose some weight.

Began using Bas Rutten MMA CD’s for interval training.

Began a P90X program to get myself back in peak condition and heal injuries.

Cars

Progress:

Completed all regular maintenance.

Paid off Patty’s car in the beginning of the year and received title.

Paid off my car at the end of the year and received title.

Challenge: My car was hit at Foxwoods. It took me half the day to deal with the accident and then many hours to get it repaired. In the end my car was fixed and my insurance covered everything.

House

Had a new AC system installed.

Charity and Community Service.

United Way Lantern Society Member.

Gave to assorted Charities.

Voted in all elections.

Donated cans to RI food bank through Boy Scouts of America.

Joined The Gun Owner’s Action League (GOAL).

Exercised my Second Amendment rights.

Planning

Began using Opus Domini for daily and weekly planning in conjunction with Anthony Robbins RPM.

Travel/Fun

Portsmouth, NH.

Ossippee, NH

Kittery, ME

Hyannis, MA.

Mohegan Sun, CT: Big Bubbas’s BBQ, Connecticut Sun Basketball Game.

Foxwoods, CT.

East Hartford, CT.

NYC Trip: Traveled by bus. China Town, Little Italy, Times Square.

Boston: stayed at the Hilton river view room and worked on novel, Cheesecake Factory, PF Changs, Prudential Tower, Harvard Bridge.

IMAX: Avengers, Promethus, The Dark Knight Rising.

Cinema De Lux Director’s Hall: The Expendables 2.

Rented Solomon Kane On Demand before it came to the theater.

Memorial Day Parade and Fireworks.

Attended Patty’s 25^th Anniversary for her company. As usual I made a spectacle of myself with my trademark dancing.

Went to see my friend Jim play drums in his band The Jazz Hawks.

Spiritual

I began praying again at night and saying affirmations in the morning.

Performed kaddish for the dead and lit candles for my sister.

I had a spiritual awakening and returned to my spiritual roots.

Had a series of experiences along with stories of others that proved to me beyond shadow of a doubt that some part of us survives death.

That’s about all I can remember for 2012. It’s been a challenging and productive year. I have some major goals I’d like to complete in 2013. Here’s hoping that next year will be better in every way imaginable.

2011 Goals Accomplished…Now onto 2012!

8 Replies

2011 Goals Accomplished…Now onto 2012!

Every year I create a list of goals for every area in my life. Throughout the year I work on these goals and track my progress. Then, to keep myself honest, I commit to posting a list of some of my top accomplishments and some of the smaller ones as well. What a great year! 2011 has been my best year for accomplishments since 2006! I finally feel like I have some momentum.

Education:

Graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Massachusetts, (UMASS) Lowell with a BLA degree with concentrations in English and psychology.

Final Classes:

Introduction to the Internet—Grade: A

Statistics—Grade: B

Writing Career:

Sales:

Sold “The Language of Ice” short story to the Extinct Doesn’t Mean Forever Anthology: http://www.amazon.com/Extinct-Doesnt-Mean-Forever-ebook/dp/B004SUOWMU/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_1

What this gave me besides a check and publishing credit:

Accepted into my first e-book anthology.
My Editor (Phoenix Sullivan) gave me a fantastic line edit that changed the way I revise my stories.
The sale allowed me to get an author’s page on Amazon, BN.com, Smashwords, and Goodreads. http://www.amazon.com/David-North-Martino/e/B004TIM8WC/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_9
Had my first press release sent out from Dare to Dream Press.
My publisher also uploaded TLOI as a short story single. http://www.amazon.com/The-Language-of-Ice-ebook/dp/B005FG17QK/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_3
My story included with a group of fantastic international writers.
I made friends with some incredible writers.
Attended the virtual launch party.

Sold “Malfeasance” short story to Epitaphs: The Journal of the New England Horror Writers (an anthology). http://www.amazon.com/Epitaphs-Journal-England-Horror-Writers/dp/0982727593/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1325263737&sr=8-1

What it gave me besides a check and a publishing credit:

Accepted into my first print anthology.
A physical book with my name on the back cover.
My story included with a group of fantastic New England Writers including an award winning best-selling author and an award winning internationally best-selling author.
A physical book to place on the bookcase I inherited from my grandmother.
The privilege and honor to represent the New England Horror Writers.
My 2^nd anthology credit of the year.
My editor (Tracy Carbone) gave me advice that has changed the way I write my stories
I gave my first reading at Anthocon in Portsmouth, NH.
I participated in my first signing at Anthocon in Portsmouth, NH.

I reconnected with writing friends and made a ton of new writing friends.

I also sent out short stories to 9 markets this year.

Wrote 4 short stories this year and am halfway though another one.

Conventions:

Attended NECON.

Attended AnthoCon.

Novels:

Wolves of Vengeance:

Completed edit using notes and suggestions from author extraordinaire Ray Garton.

Decided to remove 40k words to tighten story and go back to basics. Completed what will hopefully be the last major overhaul draft.

Continued using Scrivener to write and structure novels.

Wrote synopsis for two more novels.

Other:

Used Duotrope.com to research short story markets and keep up with the needs of publishers.

Donated to Duotrope.com

Paid Horror Writer’s Association (HWA) dues.

Martial Arts

Celebrated 24 years of martial arts training.

Taught private lessons in Tang Soo Do.

Learned Naihanchi Cho Dan and Ye Dan forms (Master Phil Critiqued forms).

I earned my Ee Dan black belt rank grade in Tang Soo Do from Grandmaster Rhee (9thDan).

I had a student use the self-defense techniques I taught her to defend herself against a knife wielding potential serial killer and survive with only superficial wounds. Her victory is also mine. And I couldn’t be prouder.

Trained at Gould’s TKD (Tae Kwon Do/ Tang Soo Do Moo Duk Kwan).

Trained with Master Phil in Jung Ki Kwan Hapkido.

Attended a tactical firearms training given by a State Trooper.

PNM Books:

Sold GPS to upgrade.

Sold iPad.

Financial

Held family financial meetings.

Continued leveraging taxes to tax preparer.

Etc.

Cars

Completed all regular maintenance and replaced headlamps in both vehicles.

Family

My Grandnephew Caolan Thomas was born!

Supported my Dad by attending the Vet’s BBQ.

Visited Parents at Foxwoods.

Bought Patty flowers for Valentines Day.

Contacted my parents by phone each week.

Out to dinner with In-Laws to Outback.

Supported my wife with her diet.

Attended Sarah’s (niece) welcome home party from Kosovo.

John (nephew) returned from Afghanistan!

Called Mom for mother’s day.

Celebrated 16 years of marriage and 19 years together.

Attend Father’s Day BBQ at in laws.

Had breakfast at Foxwoods for Mother’s birthday.

Met my Grandnephew.

Had my niece and nephew up and had pizza with them.

Put Grandmother’s picture up on bookcase that I inherited.

Visited Mom, Dad, Uncle Freddy, and visited Danielle’s new apartment.

Had Thanksgiving at In-Laws.

Christmas at the In-Laws.

Health

Lost approximately 12 lbs of fat (regained about 5 lbs because of injury and holidays).

Joined Planet Fitness and used treadmill and/or elliptical at least 2x per week.

Began a running/elliptical program.

Dental Cleanings—no cavities.

Tried another medication but decided to go back on Protonix for now.

Had a great physical: all systems normal.

Eye appointment: eyes have stayed the same.

Went to physical therapy to fix my shoulder and was discharged to independent training.

Friends:

Met up with Jason S. at Vet’s Bike and BBQ.

Trained in TKD and Hapkido with my friend Master Phil.

Used social media to keep up with friends.

Home

Outfitted the patio with a table and a grill.

Had the HVAC fan fixed.

Changed rugs in upstairs bathroom.

Changed toilet seats in upstairs and downstairs bathroom.

Cleaned out kitchen cabinets.

Cleaned scuffs off walls.

Fixed flag holder and put up flag.

Had HVAC heating coil fixed.

Continued cleaning garage and study.

Got a quote for a new water heater and furnace.

Had front storm door handle fixed.

Had new water heater, furnace, and thermostat installed.

Charity

United Way Keel Club of Leadership.

Soldiers’ Angels.

Received Operation Iraqi Freedom/New Dawn plaque for soldier support.

Food to local food pantry.

Donated clothing to charity.

Etc.

Travel

Seminar in Burlington, MA. Stayed in a Hyatt Suite.

Foxwoods, CT

Mohegan Sun, CT

AnthoCon in Portsmouth, NH

Fun

Joined Red Sox Nation.

Attended Earth, Wind & Fire concert at Mohegan sun.

Watched the Bruins win the Stanley Cup on the big screen!

Attended Motley Crue with Poison and New York Dolls at Mohegan.

Autumnfest 2011—Woonsocket

Computer

Joined Dropbox.com

Joined Twitter

Joined Flicker

Got an evernote account

Planning

Continued using the Anthony Robbins Rapid Planning Method (RPM). I’ve been using this planning system since 2001.

That’s all for 2011…now onto 2012!

Connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/dnorthmartino