Wow, what a year it's been. I don't mean that in a good way. Out of work for four and a half months (I was more fortunate than most, I admit), international travel on hold, house buying on hold; the list goes on and on. Luckily, I was able to enjoy two of my favorite fall activities differently this year. Also, I did both in one weekend!
On Saturday the 17th, my wife and I drove to Newville, PA, to attend Creature Feature weekend. With a diverse amount of vendors, ranging from used movies and books, toys, and clothing, it was vastly similar to the horror conventions I've grown to love over the last seven years. We walked around, enjoying the outdoor experience that I've only enjoyed inside a small hotel in mostly NJ. It was significantly smaller, even with all spacing, but it was still better to be spaced out in today's climate.
I was thoroughly happy to meet and talk to several authors I've grown to admire. They were all exceptionally kind, providing valuable information towards my own writing goals and guiding me towards helpful resources. The best part about conventions to me is connecting with those who have equal passion as you, and I was satisfied to learn my encounter was just that.
We ate, watched some of the costumed attendees display their costumes, got some concessions, and sat down to enjoy the movies. We had The Lost Boys and Trick R Treat on the night's schedule, and we found both to be enjoyable. My wife wasn't able to experience a drive-in this year, so not only did we achieve that, but this was our first drive-in date, which was a small delight to have together.
The next morning, after checking out of our hotel, we went to Grim's Orchard and Family Farm in Breinigsville, PA. Now, this place was vastly bigger than I expected. Three large parking lots, armed security, and property that seemed more like a fairground than a farm.
We picked pumpkins, enjoyed a few tasty treats, and wandered the grounds to explore the vast festivities scattered about.
Our usual fall excitement in Rhinebeck, NY, was canceled this year, but it felt like it was relocated to eastern Pennsylvania for our convenience.
In the late summer, several of my favorite horror conventions started getting canceled one after the other. It was disappointing enough that my big horror convention road trip for the year in Ohio got postponed due to Covid, but my favorite local trips hurt quite a bit more.
Not only was this experience a great alternative to my fall/horror delights, but it really put my writing drive back to 100%.
I was fortunate enough to talk to several authors and get great information benefiting my own writing. Seldom do I get such interaction with people who inspire me and are also kind in person.
I got home from the weekend feeling so inspired to get back to my projects to the best of my abilities. Editing my short collection, finishing my submission for an anthology, and prepping for NaNoWriMo are all on my plate; however, it excites me to take them all on. I'm thrilled if I get accepted into the anthology or not. I'm thrilled to attempt writing 50,000 words in a month, despite how difficult that may be. I'm thrilled to get my book finished for the small indie community (and hopefully more) to read.
I'm nervous, and I'm scared even. Still, I know it's what I'm going to do. It's my passion and has been for as long as I remember. Either way, right now, I'm going to power through every obstacle until I get where I want to be.
I'm on overdrive. It only took a little fear to get me there.
If you're feeling scared about your passion or project, feel free to reach out. You're not alone.
I hope to show you everything soon.
Enjoy the beautiful season, and have a good scare!
-Joe