As I look back on 2023, the word that comes to mind is astounding.
The year was filled with unexpected joys!
We launched a podcast—you and me, together. I kept putting out one episode after another, even when I wondered if my voice sounded weird. And you, gracious as you are, kept inviting your friends to listen.
We spent time on Wren Island during all four seasons! We watched a baby bird take flight, discovered whole sand dollars on the beach, marveled over raucous autumn crows, and braced ourselves for a winter storm.
Some of us met in person! You visited my beautiful part of the country, I visited yours. We crossed paths at a library, coffee shop, arts festival, writers’ conference.
Together, we lost people and pets we love. Some of us added family members. Every one of us tried something new, I bet, while continuing to do the same stuff we love.
It all leaves me wondering … How can 2024 possibly measure up?
You know me, I’m careful about not giving spoilers. But I’m so excited about what’s coming in 2024, I have to say something. Here goes.
There will be giveaways in 2024. I’m talking about the kind you receive in the snail mail.
For instance, a friend has asked for a ball cap that says Wren Island. She wants people to ask “Where’s Wren Island?” so she can point them to it. I’m pretty sure you get a better deal when you order custom ball caps in bulk, and my friend and I don’t need a gazillion ball caps, even if they do say Wren Island and are therefore extra, extra special. Guess who’ll be next in line to receive one?
Also in 2024, we’ll be wrapping up the current Wren Island series. Part 6 will arrive in your inbox on the first day of spring—with what I hope will be a more-than-satisfying conclusion to the story.
Hang on, don’t panic about there being a “conclusion.” This is interactive serialized fiction. There’s always more to the story!
This summer, you’ll start receiving a brand new series featuring a just-landed-on-Wren character. My early interviews with this person have been captivating, so I’m super curious to find out what you think. Meanwhile, we’ll keep tabs on the Wren friends we already know and love.
What’s your hope for 2024?
Mine is for courage to try the scary stuff. Wisdom when faced with a conundrum. A few mornings in a rowboat as the sun’s rising. A presidential election season that doesn’t make my brain feel like it’s exploding. Two weeks of being inspired by summer Olympians doing their amazing thing. Good books to read, one after another. Beach walks with a big brown dog named Rosie who also responds when called Louise.
Let’s do 2024 together, you and me. We did 2023 together, and it’s not a stretch to say we did it marvelously.
(This post is adapted from a note I wrote email subscribers near the end of 2023. If you’d like to be among the first to read notes like these, subscribe here.)
