Detours: Hey, Would You Read This, Please?

It's really short. There's a poll. Also, I love you all. A lot.

Dearest Gentle Readers,

Occasionally, I take a little side trip away from my usual format—I tell you a story from my life that I hope you’ll find things to relate to in, and then I hand you a metaphorical pen and say “Go forth and write!” (I’d love it if you shared more of what you wrote with me, but we’ll get to that eventually, I’m sure. We’re still getting to know one another.)

I decided to call my little side trips “Detours.” So, whenever you see that tag here on I’ll Go First, you’ll know we’re on a side quest.

I've been thinking about how to thank the people who financially support I'll Go First. I don't want to put my stories behind a paywall—that's never felt right to me. But I'd like to occasionally create something extra for the lovely people whose paid subscriptions make that possible. So, I wonder:

Would some of you enjoy hearing the stories in my own voice?

It would be less of a podcast and more like sitting across the table from me while I tell you a little tale. (And of course I’ll make sure it sounds good. I’ve worked in podcasting. I was a managing editor, not a producer, but I learned enough by osmosis to not assault your ears with terrible audio quality.)

Here’s how it would work: Every now and then, I’d record myself reading one of my essays aloud, along with a few thoughts that didn’t make it into the published piece. Not every week; more like once a month to start.

Before I go impulsively charging ahead like the chaotic, ADHD-addled gremlin that I am, I’m curious...

Would you ever listen to something like that? Feel free to vote even if you’re not a paid subscriber! I’d love to know what you’d enjoy.

Peace and love,

Karen