Happy birthday Writer Dad! Today you’re one year old.
365 days ago Cindy and I made a decision that has since twisted the wind of our lives. I stepped online a tentative writer, but thanks in large part to a bustling comment section I was able to find my voice rather early. Those first few weeks were awkward for sure; I a Freshman trying to find the right table to sit at. I was fortunate enough to make a few friends early – one who has become a permanent fixture of my everyday life.
As filled with reward as this last year has been, it has also been the hardest of my life.
My son was born five years ago. He was then just as he is now; bright, beautiful and beguiling, though he did not yet possess the vocabulary to confirm our suspicions. Despite his amiable nature, he fought for his place with every fiber, handing us a year fraught with complications.
That year lingered, occupied by endless nights of crying as we nursed newborn to boy by forever attending to his bottomless need. Those early months were crowded with just enough struggle to point us toward a path that headed for a different horizon.
And here we are.
This last year lingered, occupied by endless days of writing as we we nursed newborn to name brand by forever attending to its bottomless need. Those early months were crowded with just enough reward to promise we were pointed toward the proper path and our horizon was sure.
In many ways the first year with our son prepared us for this last year of growth. We look at our boy now, a half decade taller, certain every drop of sweat was well spent. Infancy is difficult; attending to the endless needs of someone too little to say “I love you.” The beginnings of Writer Dad have been every bit as hard. I have poured 100% of myself into this site and every satellite project we hold in the hope that I will soon justify my family’s unfailing belief in me.
To celebrate Writer Dad’s first birthday, I would like to share a few of those things currently filling my dreams with the most helium. Please pick one you are not yet familiar with and enjoy. If you already have a favorite, please pass it forward to someone who might enjoy it just as much.
These are our balloons.
Collective Inkwell. The Inkwell is the online space shared between myself and David Wright (Blogger Dad), my online partner and constant collaborator. It is where we each share our ideas on writing and creativity as well as offer our services for copy, web design and branding. We have extraordinary plans for the Inkwell spread across the next several months and I cannot wait to see them to fruition. I am lucky to have a partner as talented, funny and creative as David. If we do even half the things we’ve discussed, it will be difficult to ever stop smiling.
Children Write the Future. In September, this site will soar. Right now the majority of words are passed behind the curtain. There is a thriving community within the email newsletter (monthly tips and writing prompts for children). Cindy and I have read some of the most wonderful pieces of writing from some truly individual voices. As the Inkwell is an online studio for Dave and myself, so is Children Write the Future for me and Cindy. For the teachers inside us, there is nothing on our plate near as rewarding.
Four Seasons. Four Seasons is a collection of twelves short stories, each taking place in a different month. Each tale’s events are unique to their time, and should each one assemble toward something special. They are written minus an outline and I never know where the tale is going to turn from one month to the next. At the end of December, the twelve tales will be rewritten and joined together into a single book. As of last month, Dave has joined the project because, quite frankly, he makes my writing better.
Cindy Platt dotcom. This one isn’t really mine, but it fills my world with helium anyway. CindyPlatt.com is at a slow burn while my fair lady does the endless duty of taking care of our children seven days a week so I can stay upstairs like Dr. Frankenstein waiting to scream, “It’s ALIVE!” Come September, both our children will be at the same school for five days a week for the first time – all her brainstorms will shower.
Potty Training Power. The potty training system and attached blog are a branding product of the Inkwell. The blog offers tips, tricks and plenty of sound advice for potty training your child. The product is all kinds of awesome that includes a potty training ebook, potty training charts, a potty training quick tips companion ebook, an illustrated picture ebook called Number One and Two it! (written by me, drawn by Dave, and totally adorable) along with a companion video. All in addition to a couple of bonuses and full email support from Cindy and myself so we can help hold your hand through the potty training process. We’ve spent the last month polishing it to a shine, today is its official relaunch.
Available Darkness. I don’t have words for how cool this project is turning out. This debuted over at the Inkwell. Available Darkness is genre bending serialized fiction co-written by Dave and I with a new chapter unveiled each Friday. Behind the curtain, the story is nearing completion. We have big plans for the franchise, including ink later this year.
Ghostwriter Dad. My little spot on the web where I trade words for dollars with a smile on my face. I don’t get the byline, but I do get to play with language. Some of my business is SEO copy, but I also write love letters, wedding vows, fiction, speeches, and have even written a few (surprisingly satisfying) letters of complaint. Sometimes it is a joy to simply fade behind the copy. The homepage offers my services, but I write once or twice a week on the blog about the experience of being a ghostwriter. You can subscribe to the feed here.
One year back my best friend and I bolted our eyes and dared to dream. We no longer wished to live a life spent running around the track, craving a future of limitless sky instead of low ceiling. We have our sky and we have our helium. These are our balloons.
About Sean Platt
Wow, it’s hard to believe it’s been only a year! It seems like you’ve been in this skin forever—so comfortable and so right. :)
I am particularly fond of the Collective Inkwell balloon, perhaps because I love all things collaborative, and I envy that you found David to build such a strong partnership with.
Congratulations!
Wow, it’s hard to believe it’s been only a year! It seems like you’ve been in this skin forever—so comfortable and so right. :)
I am particularly fond of the Collective Inkwell balloon, perhaps because I love all things collaborative, and I envy that you found David to build such a strong partnership with.
Congratulations!
Lots of lovely balloons in the air and congratulations on a fantastic and amazing first year blogging. Happy Birthday Writer Dad.
Although I do not always comment – I do read something you write everyday and I love Cindy’s new spaces too.
Thank you for your good words and continued success.
Lots of lovely balloons in the air and congratulations on a fantastic and amazing first year blogging. Happy Birthday Writer Dad.
Although I do not always comment – I do read something you write everyday and I love Cindy’s new spaces too.
Thank you for your good words and continued success.
You are a fabulous writer! I am completely pulled in!
Happy Birthday!
I will be spreading the word!
You are a fabulous writer! I am completely pulled in!
Happy Birthday!
I will be spreading the word!
Gus is sitting next to me and he yelped, “Mr. Sean and Ethan!” When we clicked on your page. You have done amazing things in only one year. Congratulations on all of your endeavors and websites. The boys say hello to Mr. Sean and Ms. Cindy.
Gus is sitting next to me and he yelped, “Mr. Sean and Ethan!” When we clicked on your page. You have done amazing things in only one year. Congratulations on all of your endeavors and websites. The boys say hello to Mr. Sean and Ms. Cindy.
Congratulations Writer Dad! A year blows by quickly when you’re having so much fun, huh? Keep up your excellent and inspired work. Best wishes for continued success.
Congratulations Writer Dad! A year blows by quickly when you’re having so much fun, huh? Keep up your excellent and inspired work. Best wishes for continued success.
Happy Birthday, Writer Dad! Sorry I’m a little late in congratulating you for your one-year anniversary. Nonetheless, I want you to keep up the good work. (I know that this isn’t the end for you) You’ve helped a lot of people with your stories and fatherhood skills.
Looking forward to reading the next post.
Happy Birthday, Writer Dad! Sorry I’m a little late in congratulating you for your one-year anniversary. Nonetheless, I want you to keep up the good work. (I know that this isn’t the end for you) You’ve helped a lot of people with your stories and fatherhood skills.
Looking forward to reading the next post.
Wish I could say I was here at the beginning, too. I’ve caught the latter part of your 365 days. And has latched on your coattails ever since. Good enough for me – fills my head with helium, too.
Congratulations on WriterDad’s first year. You and Cindy and the whole family, including awesome David, deserve all the best that heaven allows.
Wish I could say I was here at the beginning, too. I’ve caught the latter part of your 365 days. And has latched on your coattails ever since. Good enough for me – fills my head with helium, too.
Congratulations on WriterDad’s first year. You and Cindy and the whole family, including awesome David, deserve all the best that heaven allows.
What a tremendous repertoire of accomplishments, Sean! And I know it’s only the beginning. As your many followers would no doubt agree, with your talent and drive, the future is intensely bright. Congratulations on your impressive first year. Looking forward to seeing all the amazing things you’ll do in year two.
What a tremendous repertoire of accomplishments, Sean! And I know it’s only the beginning. As your many followers would no doubt agree, with your talent and drive, the future is intensely bright. Congratulations on your impressive first year. Looking forward to seeing all the amazing things you’ll do in year two.
What a tremendous repertoire of accomplishments, Sean! And I know it’s only the beginning. As your many followers would no doubt agree, with your talent and drive, the future is intensely bright. Congratulations on your incredible first year. Looking forward to seeing all the amazing things you’ll do in year two.
What a tremendous repertoire of accomplishments, Sean! And I know it’s only the beginning. As your many followers would no doubt agree, with your talent and drive, the future is intensely bright. Congratulations on your incredible first year. Looking forward to seeing all the amazing things you’ll do in year two.
Too much helium. Voice going squeaky.
Happy Birthday Writer Dad!
Sean, I’ve said it before but I’ll say it again. You are an inspiration. If it weren’t for that post of yours on Copyblogger I wouldn’t be where I am right now.
Long may your balloons soar my friend.
Too much helium. Voice going squeaky.
Happy Birthday Writer Dad!
Sean, I’ve said it before but I’ll say it again. You are an inspiration. If it weren’t for that post of yours on Copyblogger I wouldn’t be where I am right now.
Long may your balloons soar my friend.
Coco: Ha, I know what you mean. Part of me feels like I’ve been doing it forever already, but most of me knows I’m just getting started.
Cindy: You and I both know you are my fuel. Thank you for everything you have done to encourage me and support me so. I know it isn’t always easy, but you never fail to try. I love you baby. THANKS for everything!
Maya: Thank you for the compliments, Maya. All of them. And thank you for acknowledging Cindy. I don’t think she could ever get enough accolades.
Mary Anne Fisher: Though I am sweating it, I am also bursting with pride for sure. I know everything will work out and that the long dry road will eventually lead to fertile soil and abundant water. Thank you for everything Mary Anne. It is an honor to know you as well.
Hayden: Thanks Hayden. Indeed, they keep me high and make my voice all squeaky. : > )
Kristin: I do not have the words for how lucky I am to have a collaborator like Dave. If I did not have Cindy on one side and him on the other, I would never have made it this far. For sure.
Patricia: Thank you Patricia. Never apologize for a lack of comments. Reading is more than enough. Believe me, I know how hard it is to make the rounds. I have neglected the comment sections all around Blogopolis.
Karen: Hello to the boys! It is always nice to hear from you Karen. I cannot thank you enough for being one of my “real world” supporters. You handled our exit with such beautiful grace and that is something I’ll never forget. Thank YOU, Karen. : > )
Guitar Dad: Man, it’s passed by in a flurry for sure. Totally off the subject, I really like your page of diversions or inspirations. The picture of the grand canyon is heart stopping.
Jan: Thanks, Jan. You’re such an unfailing gentleman. It is an honor to know you. Thank you for your support and your well wishing. Here’s to another one!
Susan: I know your second comment was a mistake, but I’m leaving it in as I think it is remarkably fitting. You’ve done twice as much as most others to see me succeed. I cannot thank you enough for your words of wisdom, shows of support, and ripe experience that I am lucky enough to drink from. Thank you. I may not be able to thank you properly yet, but I will not ever forget.
Marc: LOL, yep. That’s definitely enough helium to make you feel light headed and Mickey like. Thank YOU for your constant support all over the blogging map. Thank you for answering my questions whenever I have them, no matter how silly they may be, and thank you for speaking your mind whenever there is something on it. You have been at this a lot longer than I. THAT is an inspiration.
Coco: Ha, I know what you mean. Part of me feels like I’ve been doing it forever already, but most of me knows I’m just getting started.
Cindy: You and I both know you are my fuel. Thank you for everything you have done to encourage me and support me so. I know it isn’t always easy, but you never fail to try. I love you baby. THANKS for everything!
Maya: Thank you for the compliments, Maya. All of them. And thank you for acknowledging Cindy. I don’t think she could ever get enough accolades.
Mary Anne Fisher: Though I am sweating it, I am also bursting with pride for sure. I know everything will work out and that the long dry road will eventually lead to fertile soil and abundant water. Thank you for everything Mary Anne. It is an honor to know you as well.
Hayden: Thanks Hayden. Indeed, they keep me high and make my voice all squeaky. : > )
Kristin: I do not have the words for how lucky I am to have a collaborator like Dave. If I did not have Cindy on one side and him on the other, I would never have made it this far. For sure.
Patricia: Thank you Patricia. Never apologize for a lack of comments. Reading is more than enough. Believe me, I know how hard it is to make the rounds. I have neglected the comment sections all around Blogopolis.
Karen: Hello to the boys! It is always nice to hear from you Karen. I cannot thank you enough for being one of my “real world” supporters. You handled our exit with such beautiful grace and that is something I’ll never forget. Thank YOU, Karen. : > )
Guitar Dad: Man, it’s passed by in a flurry for sure. Totally off the subject, I really like your page of diversions or inspirations. The picture of the grand canyon is heart stopping.
Jan: Thanks, Jan. You’re such an unfailing gentleman. It is an honor to know you. Thank you for your support and your well wishing. Here’s to another one!
Susan: I know your second comment was a mistake, but I’m leaving it in as I think it is remarkably fitting. You’ve done twice as much as most others to see me succeed. I cannot thank you enough for your words of wisdom, shows of support, and ripe experience that I am lucky enough to drink from. Thank you. I may not be able to thank you properly yet, but I will not ever forget.
Marc: LOL, yep. That’s definitely enough helium to make you feel light headed and Mickey like. Thank YOU for your constant support all over the blogging map. Thank you for answering my questions whenever I have them, no matter how silly they may be, and thank you for speaking your mind whenever there is something on it. You have been at this a lot longer than I. THAT is an inspiration.
Sean, congrats!!
Been trying to make it over here ever since I met Eric, and he spoke so highly of you. I admire the love you have for your wife and the commitment you have to WriterDad.
A first time dad, I’m enjoying the parenting thing with my wife and our 9 month old. Nothing says joy like your daughter’s smile plastered with rice cereal.
Look forward to reading more of you!
Sean, congrats!!
Been trying to make it over here ever since I met Eric, and he spoke so highly of you. I admire the love you have for your wife and the commitment you have to WriterDad.
A first time dad, I’m enjoying the parenting thing with my wife and our 9 month old. Nothing says joy like your daughter’s smile plastered with rice cereal.
Look forward to reading more of you!
Sorry I’m late to the party Sean! I hope there is still a balloon for me (AS WELL AS SOME CAKE AND ICE CREAM) .
You have accomplished a ton in a years time. You should be proud. You are an incredible writer and You are loved!
Best wishes for an awesomely profitable 2nd year!
Happy Birthday!!!
Sorry I’m late to the party Sean! I hope there is still a balloon for me (AS WELL AS SOME CAKE AND ICE CREAM) .
You have accomplished a ton in a years time. You should be proud. You are an incredible writer and You are loved!
Best wishes for an awesomely profitable 2nd year!
Happy Birthday!!!
Happy birthday! Thanks for your loving support and inspiration. May all your balloons brighten our skies for a long time to come!
Happy birthday! Thanks for your loving support and inspiration. May all your balloons brighten our skies for a long time to come!
John: You’re not late at all. In fact, it appears as though I’m late in giving you a response… silly comment moderation! : > ) Thanks for the well wishes and just as an aside note, I think your blog is terrific. A youthful spirit which is just fantastic. Keep it up!
Brian Papa: Thanks for the compliments Brian. I appreciate them. No, there is nothing like the joy of your child’s smile. Better than a mountain of money any day. The best is yet to come. Thank you for joining the party. I’m glad to know you.
Laurie: You’re not late at all! The ice cream might be melted, but we’re partying well through the weekend, or at least until I get my lazy keister to write something new (which likely isn’t happening today).
Janice: I’m planning to fill the sky so you see nothing but color! How does that sound? Thank you Janice for all your relentless support and all the extra helium.
John: You’re not late at all. In fact, it appears as though I’m late in giving you a response… silly comment moderation! : > ) Thanks for the well wishes and just as an aside note, I think your blog is terrific. A youthful spirit which is just fantastic. Keep it up!
Brian Papa: Thanks for the compliments Brian. I appreciate them. No, there is nothing like the joy of your child’s smile. Better than a mountain of money any day. The best is yet to come. Thank you for joining the party. I’m glad to know you.
Laurie: You’re not late at all! The ice cream might be melted, but we’re partying well through the weekend, or at least until I get my lazy keister to write something new (which likely isn’t happening today).
Janice: I’m planning to fill the sky so you see nothing but color! How does that sound? Thank you Janice for all your relentless support and all the extra helium.
I won’t consider myself late to the party…I’ll just say that I attended a party that went on for DAYS. I’m hoping that this birthday bash is going to be carryin’ on for years to come, and that we’ll always have some Writer Dad and Cindy endeavor to celebrate. Congratulations on your successes. It’s been an amazing journey that we’ve been honored to witness. You and Cindy are an inspiring and synergistic team.
I won’t consider myself late to the party…I’ll just say that I attended a party that went on for DAYS. I’m hoping that this birthday bash is going to be carryin’ on for years to come, and that we’ll always have some Writer Dad and Cindy endeavor to celebrate. Congratulations on your successes. It’s been an amazing journey that we’ve been honored to witness. You and Cindy are an inspiring and synergistic team.
…get up WAY too early…
I probably single-handedly (or should I say multiple-cuppedly) keep some coffee company in business…
…get up WAY too early…
I probably single-handedly (or should I say multiple-cuppedly) keep some coffee company in business…
Congratulations. A year is a significant milestone. I’ve seen a lot of people quit when they hit the dips. You leaned into them. In fact, while the economy contracted, you expanded. Way to go.
Congratulations. A year is a significant milestone. I’ve seen a lot of people quit when they hit the dips. You leaned into them. In fact, while the economy contracted, you expanded. Way to go.
Randi: Years to come for sure. Cindy and I were just talking about it yesterday – how September (when our children are both in school at the same place and schedule for the first time ever) that we can really start to fly.
Lance: Boy do I know that feeling! My son gets up at the crack of dawn and has since forever. I get up with him. This means I’ve had a gallon before the rooster crows.
J.D. I don’t know how to quit, but I LOVE how you said I leaned into the dips. I guess I did indeed, but thanks for noticing!
Randi: Years to come for sure. Cindy and I were just talking about it yesterday – how September (when our children are both in school at the same place and schedule for the first time ever) that we can really start to fly.
Lance: Boy do I know that feeling! My son gets up at the crack of dawn and has since forever. I get up with him. This means I’ve had a gallon before the rooster crows.
J.D. I don’t know how to quit, but I LOVE how you said I leaned into the dips. I guess I did indeed, but thanks for noticing!
Funny, it’s your (blogs) birthday but your readers get the presents. I have yet to read a post that didn’t stir my soul, often with tears and always with laughter.
Thank you for sharing your gifts with us.
Funny, it’s your (blogs) birthday but your readers get the presents. I have yet to read a post that didn’t stir my soul, often with tears and always with laughter.
Thank you for sharing your gifts with us.
i read your guest post 7 secrets to raising a happy child on the zen habits blog and that was amazing. I believe the next steps you take will be greater than the steps taken in the last year and you’d always find fulfilment and satisfaction in all you do.
Take care
i read your guest post 7 secrets to raising a happy child on the zen habits blog and that was amazing. I believe the next steps you take will be greater than the steps taken in the last year and you’d always find fulfilment and satisfaction in all you do.
Take care