In October I had my first publication in a literary journal. Back in my twenties I had a few items appear in a couple of ‘zines, but those were run by family and friends. So I was quite excited to hear back from The Bitter Oleander. They wanted to publish my short story, “Beyond the Bamboo,” in their autumn issue. That would be Volume 22; Number 2.

No money involved. But I did get a complementary copy in the mail. Opening my mailbox today was very rewarding. I hope this enthusiasm sticks, goading me to continue submitting work out into the world.