Time for the monthly Insecure Writer’s Support Group post and an update on my situation.
My health issues are no better, perhaps worse in that I’m struggling to stay comfortable in my powered wheelchair… no longer relaxed enough to sleep without spasms. And I can’t sit at my desk long enough to get much writing done.
However, a new wheelchair is in transit from Malaysia, which will support me far better, allow me to be upright and work at a standing desk, and to lie flat, all while strapped in safely.
Life is also becoming more chaotic and stressful as we are down-sizing in a planned move to a busy trailer park… sadly, not the dream rural retreat. Frustratingly, the new trailer has yet to arrive, but we’ve sold our house. Completion on July 1st, so time is getting tight.
Although the June IWSG post looks feasible, July’s might be scrubbed.
But I should manage to do the June WEP/IWSG Challenge.
https://writeeditpublishnow.blogspot.com/p/challenges-2022.html
That should be the next episode of my Ukrainian saga, a follow-up to Rainbow Firebreak.
So again, I won’t be telling the Ninja Captain, Alex J. Cavanaugh ‘ffarwel’.
Finally, don’t forget to visit more active writers via the IWSG site:
Insecure Writer’s Support Group
As the question is optional, I’m tempted to answer… albeit briefly.
May 4 question – It’s the best of times; it’s the worst of times. What are your writer highs (the good times)? And what are your writer lows (the crappy times)?
(A Tale of Two Cities, Para.1, Line, 1)
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair …, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way …”
Best of times: when I retired as a journalist and was able to concentrate on my fiction writing, having Spiral of Hooves published, and producing a ‘legacy’ of new draft novels, short stories, and flash pieces. The era of wisdom, belief, Light, and hope…although, there were low points like poor reviews and sales.
Worst of times: as my health deteriorates and my productivity declines, but not my thoughts and ideas. The spiral into foolishness – false dreams; incredulity – empty promises; Darkness, and despair… but there’s Light as in comments from followers, and listening to good audio books.
The awesome co-hosts for the May 4 posting of the IWSG are Kim Elliott, Melissa Maygrove, Chemist Ken, Lee Lowery, and Nancy Gideon!
I must be repetitive and ask you to agree these guys are the best. Why not? Well, they are – especially as they all have concerns, fears, and insecurities. But they struggle on, so ticker-tape applause for all of them – plus toasts with the best brew available.
Purpose of IWSG: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
Every month, we announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say.
Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer – aim for a dozen new people each time – and return comments. This group is all about connecting!
Let’s rock the neurotic writing world!
Our Twitter handle is @TheIWSG and hashtag is #IWSG.
Every month, we announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience, or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something.
For more on the IWSG monthly post and links to other participants visit:
https://www.insecurewriterssupportgroup.com/p/iwsg-sign-up.html
Writing Wings 
What a cool concept for a wheelchair! I hope it helps you as much as it looks like it will. Keep pushing past the challenges and find a way to write.
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Cool indeed, Melissa. Hoping when it arrives that it triggers a spate of new writing.
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That new wheelchair looks great! I hope it helps you be more comfortable and write more. Yes, write more, because I always look forward to your stories! And moving… there’s a stressor. I’m so sorry you’re having to move to someplace less than ideal, but hope at least that everything goes smoothly. I’m in the middle of a move myself, so I know how difficult it all is!
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Hoping your move goes smoothly, Rebecca, with minima//no stress. More stories are planned.
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Reblogged this on NEW BLOG HERE >> https:/BOOKS.ESLARN-NET.DE.
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That new wheelchair is awesome! Hope it gets here soon.
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Awesome, I hope Alex. Arrives tomorrow finally – it’s been in the US almost a week. Touring?
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Hope the new wheelchair alleviates a lot of your present difficulties. It looks like marvel of modern ingenuity.
I like your “best of times” picks–those are the sorts of uplifting events I would like to experience. Those lows can certainly be devastating. Bad health can consume our minds along with our bodies. Hang in there! I feel for you in your situation.
The new trailer sounds like a big positive. Some of those mobile homes can be really nice.
Arlee Bird
Tossing It Out
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Thanks Arlee. New wheelchair and home should lead to more ‘best of times’ experiences.
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While deploring its necessity I am thrilled that your new wheelchair is on the way. Good luck with your move. As always I am looking forward to your next WEP post.
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Wheelchair should finally be here tomorrow, Sue. Praying it changes life immensely as old machine is driving me insane/sore/sick……….
Next WEP post is in the pipeline
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Your new wheelchair looks really functional, Roland. I hope it makes you feel much more comfortable. If you’re feeling better that should make the writing less of a struggle. I hope your upcoming move goes well. I have happy memories of living in a trailer at different times during my life. You may be surprised at how much you like it. Take care!
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Looking forward to more comfort, Louise, when the wheelchair arrives tomorrow. Then we will be waiting for our new trailer home to arrive from Kansas – delayed by tornadoes ironically. This will be the third trailer home my wife and I have lived in – most recent was the one we owned in Wales.
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Hi Roland. Wish you good health always. I loved your take on A Hard Rain and I will look forward to the next one in June. Braver grandmothers!
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Thanks Sonia. June WEP story with Ukraine bravery is forming in my head – thanks to all the comments/reactions to ‘A Hard Rain’ flash.
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Best wishes 💐
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Draco looks amazing, I hope he’s soon with you & making your life more comfortable & function better.
Best wishes with the upcoming move.
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Apologies Debs, I delayed answering as Draco arrived but won’t work in our current office. So, in store until we move… in nine days.
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Oh how frustrating for you Roland. I bet you’re counting down those days, even though moving is an upheaval & hard work. Keeping everything crossed for a smooth process, as well as you & Draco taking on the world.
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Stressed as dependent on others, Debs. And I have two posts to write and schedule before office cleared.
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Oh that sounds like a lot on your plate. Sometimes it’s necessary to be like Elsa from Frozen and let it go. Take care Roland – you’ll soon be on the other side of the stress, in your new home & with Draco.
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I hope Draco arrives soon and transforms your life! The trailer park just better have enough amenities for you to make it a happy move. Fingers crossed all goes smoothly. Hugs…
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Arrived but awaiting move.
Today, we learnt that new trailer was delayed again, plus we have to be out by July 1st or pay a massive penalty. Fortunately, there’s a trailer in another park available in nine days. Another stepson already lives there so all happy… especially one granddaughter in particular.
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Fingers crossed the wheelchair and house are ready soon! I’m always excited to see your latest blog post appear in my email 🙂
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Looks like we will be moving in nine days, Deniz. Luckily, wife’s son who lives with us had already started packing for us with his girlfriend.
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Apologies everyone for not replying to comments. I’ve been sick for almost a week with a cold that everyone in the household had to various degrees. So, I’m hoping to catch up over the next few days.
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No problem for us, Roland. Hope every one is feeing a little better your end.
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Wife and I are still coughing and choking, but getting better slowly every day.
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