I spent the first few weeks of December carting my daughter back and forth to Choir practice. “Practice” turned into massively long rehearsals, which I found annoying because she’s SEVEN. When I signed her up for choir I didn’t know I was signing up for a Christmas Musical! We’re talking choreography, five songs, and speaking lines! AKKKKK! I was SO relieved when it was over.
On the writing front, December was full of a lot of waiting and hoping. I’m pleasantly surprised that my hope still hasn’t run out! I’ve got a lot of queries out there and I’m proud to say that the vast majority were not immediately declined.
I’ve also got a promising story I’m thrilled to move forward through our upcoming Critique Day with our SCBWI group. It will be the very first time someone in the group will read my writing! Which sounds ridiculous, but it’s true. I’ve not “pushed” for someone there to read my work. This is sort of my window of opportunity, no push necessary. I’m a little nervous!
In mid-December, I attended our SCBWI Holiday Party which proved to be an outstanding networking event. We played a silly game and exchanged gifts and I connected with a few different authors and an illustrator who I’d previously not had a chance to officially meet. It was a very fulfilling afternoon!
I’ve also been editing and revising and preparing to submit to a smaller publisher that opens to submission in January. While I’m still hopeful to find a literary agent, I’d also love to publish something as soon as possible! I’ll keep you informed on that progress!
Featured Image: My daughter, fully-clad in Grinch wear, sipping egg nog, just as we’re finally opening our family Christmas gifts on Christmas night. Our tradition. Also featured: Wordy Birdy Meets Mr. Cougarpants by Tammi Sauer – one of our favorites!
My Pilgrimage to Publication and Beyond 