Last week was one of those typically writer sort—I did a lot that wouldn’t sound like writing to anyone but another writer (or, in my case, Jim, who has learned the signs)—and I caught up on office work, which is something that non-writers never seem to realize is part of the job.

It is, though, especially if you’re a full-time writer and keep track of expenses and the like.  I realize not everyone organizes throughout the year.  I know at least one highly detail-oriented when writing writer who considers that sufficient organizing has been done if receipts all go in one place so they can be handed to the accountant at the end of the tax year.

Honestly, that gives me the shivers.  When I sold my very first short story to the short-lived Starshore magazine for a walloping $58.00, my dear Roger Zelazny sent me congratulations and a tax organizer.  Clipped to the organizer was a note that read something like: “You’re a pro now, lady.  Keep track of your expenses!”

I did and continue to do so, and I often (mentally now that he is gone) thank him for that advice.   I know what is coming in and what is going out.  Year end holds very few surprises.

This week I hope to do some more obviously writerly stuff, but it has been hot enough and smokey enough that it’s interfering with my thinking.

Someone asked me recently if it’s too late to vote for the Dragon Award.  (Friends Indeed, my latest novel with David Weber is a finalist in the Middle Grade YA category.)  The answer is that it’s not too late!  You can go here to see the ballot; the bar at the top of the page shows how register to get a voting ballot sent to you.

I talked a bit about Friends Indeed and the Dragon Award in last week’s WW.

Now, off to do things that won’t look like writing!