I don't mean to sound like a jerk, but I'm a little deflated right now because I haven't been nominated for a Pushcart this year. I've been nominated 3 or 4 times in the past, but not this year. It feels as though I'm backsliding or something. As to whether I've published as much stuff this year, well, I'm not sure, actually, but looking back through these postings, I have to say I've had quite a few things published this year. Are they as strong as things I've written in the past? I'd have to say they are stronger. So what gives? Am I old hat? Am I just not keeping up with the kids? Fuck if I know. I was so surprised the first time I was nominated--it was for something pretty mundane, actually. Likewise, the pieces that were nominated last year were okay, but not my best work. Actually, one of them was pretty good. Maybe that's it. Maybe I'm not publishing enough mundane work. What a nice train of denial I've got going here. Who knows. I couldn't imagine actually winning. Still, it would've been nice to at least be invited to the party. But I think publishing it like that--none of it ever makes any real sense.