Can you believe we’re already three weeks into 2026? Time definitely seems to move faster the older I get, but this year feels like it launched at warp speed.
This is the first of my monthly writing updates, where I share what I’m working on and how my projects are progressing.
Writing Update for January 2026
I originally planned to share word counts and writing time in these updates. That idea changed quickly.
In January, I wrote zero new words and spent 45 hours and 45 minutes editing.
While that tells part of the story, it doesn’t say much about the actual work. Instead, I’ve decided these monthly updates will focus more on what I’m working on. The format may change from month to month depending on the stage of each project.
What I Worked On in January
The main focus this month was revisions for Run Around, book two in the Running with Friends, along with a free bonus story for readers.
Revising Run Around
Run Around is now on draft number four, which means I’m fine-tuning word choices and checking for consistency. This is the stage where tiny details matter. For example, one character’s eye color mysteriously changed throughout the manuscript. Unless we’re leaning into science fiction, that needed fixing.
In case you missed it, Run Around is available for preorder now. Order today and the nicely edited edition will show up in your eReader on June 4, 2026.
Writing the Bonus Story
The bonus story (still unnamed) is currently in draft two. I’m having a lot of fun with this project because I decided to write it in dual POV, alternating chapters between the female and male protagonists.
It’s been interesting to think like a man for a change (please don’t tell my husband I said that). This story also leans more heavily into the romantic arc. It’s still a closed-door romance, but I’m spending more time on the emotional connection. I’ve realized that when a story makes readers feel, they’re much more likely to keep reading.
What’s Next for the Series
Once both manuscripts are off to the editor, I’ll return to outlining the third book in the series. I’m especially excited about this one. It’s already making me laugh, and it’s pushing me to stretch my skills when it comes to conflict resolution. That part will make more sense in 2027, when the book is released.
February Writing Plans
February’s focus will be outlining book three and possibly another bonus story. I’m still deciding how to track my time. Actual hours probably make the most sense, but if inspiration strikes, I may end up writing new words too.
Stay tuned.
Weekly Writing Updates on Instagram
If you enjoy behind-the-scenes peeks at the writing process, I also share weekly updates on Instagram Stories.
At the beginning of the week, I post my intentions. These usually include a reading goal and a writing or editing goal. Occasionally, a real-life goal sneaks in too—like tackling the paper stacks that had taken over my office floor.
At the end of the week, I share how things actually went. I’m being more intentional about setting realistic goals, especially when life pulls me away from the desk. Instead of cramming a full week’s worth of work into limited time, I adjust expectations to match reality.
Perhaps my fifties really are my mature era.