I write early in the morning, usually after reading portions of at least half a dozen newspapers on the web.

Keep writing. Try to do a little bit every day, even if the result looks like crap. Getting from page four to page five is more important than spending three weeks getting page four perfect.

I try to challenge myself as much as possible, as often as possible.

Advances have fallen, generally, for everything except the biggest potential bestsellers. Given all the changes, both economic and technological, SF hasn't done too badly.

The storm hit with all the fury of a woman who’d been dieting for six months, only to discover she’d gained four pounds.

I usually do one con a year as a GoH and try to make the World Fantasy Convention for business purposes. Last year I went to a worldcon for the first time in two decades. I may go again this year.

It is always hard when reality intrudes on belief.