Dawn Brazil's Blog, page 10

Randomness, Anyone

I've been busy, writing, working, mothering, and performing all the other ...ing's in my life. So, I thought I'd share what's been up because, really, my brain is fried from work today. And here we go:
 
1. I finished reading Crossed by Ally Condie. It was not my favorite book but it was still good. Why did I not love it? The pacing was off to me. I actually skipped a few paragraphs, while our MC discussed the color of the landscaping around them in vivid detail. I love description but I like it to a minimum. Still, I can't wait to read the next book in the series. Coincidentally, I still have not read Allegiant. My oldest daughter bought me Insurgent for Christmas (She just started the series) and thought that I hadn't read it yet. I have it on my Kindle so she made an honest mistake. *pumps fist at her behind her back* I guess I'll get to it one day.
 
2. I'm reading, The Fault in Our Stars by John Green now. I know that I'm probably a little late with this one. I read the first five chapters of this book a while ago and loved the voice. But I knew I wasn't ready to read it yet. I picked it back up a few days ago and will finish it this time. It's not that I think it will be hard because of the writing. I adore Hazel (the MC and Augustus) I just have an aversion to crying. But I think this one might be a tear-jerker.  

 
3. Author, Kitsy Clare, is debuting the cover for her new NA novella, Model Position. The novella will be available on Feb. 20 for purchase. It’s a totally swoon worthy cover. Check it out here! That cover has me itching to read the contents. I've already added it to my TBR on Goodreads.

 
4. I found a professional editor for my MS, Finding Me. I'm so excited and nervous. I found her while reading a post over at Quanie Miller's blog. Thanks, Quanie!

What have you been up to? Read any good books lately?



Have a great day. Read a book and laugh!

I'M READY

I've made a decisions.

And I'm going to stick with the decision I've made because I feel, at least for now, it's what's best for me. I posted a few months ago, that I was thinking of self-publishing. I've given the traditional route about as much as I can.

For now.

I've queried countless agents. I've gotten a few requests for fulls. I've even gotten a few, "I like this but I can't sell it." While I tried to remain positive and encouraged, it was a struggle. Each rejection was like a slap in the face...telling me I'm not good enough. Give up! But that's the thing: I can't give up. This is my passion. I don't think I could even function without writing anymore.

So, I'm going to self-publish my first book: Finding Me. I'd be the biggest liar if I didn't admit that I was nervous.

I'm terrified.

But I believe in my story. I've had three different CP's (no family or friends), three beta readers, and I've even posted the first five chapters on Critique Circle and I've gotten positive feedback. Well, after the MS was eviscerated a few times. So...

 I'd like to share the opening line to Finding Me:
The weirdest day of my existence started with a kiss.

What are you ready for in 2014? Anticipating any big events or moments. Please share.


Have a great day. Read a book and laugh!

ARE YOU SABOTAGING YOURSELF

This year has flown by so fast. It’s almost Christmas. What! WHAT? It hardly seems fair that time keeps expanding by leaps and bounds and I can barely keep up. I must be truthful and say that while I made some big advances this year, I did not accomplish all my goals. And I’m a little disappointed in myself.

The thing is, people will tell you, “Oh, it’s okay. You can’t do everything.” But the truth is, if you make a goal (a reasonable one at that) and you don’t accomplish it (par for death or serious illness) you should not give yourself an out. Don’t set yourself up for failure. As soon as I start giving myself an excuse to not do something, I’ve lost. As soon as I get lazy and undisciplined, I’ve lost. As soon as I start to feel sorry for myself because of my long hours, I’ve lost.

I might as well shut down my computer, stop writing and reading, and watch TV.

So you know what. There’s not going to be any pity parties over here. There’s not going to be any excuses, any undue pats on the back – not until I do what I set out to do. This isn’t just about writing…but it encompasses that dream, too. This is about EVERYTHING. I know what I am capable of and the only person who can stand in my way is ME. Not the day job that sucks my energy and exhausts me mentally, not the people in my life (family, friends) who clamor for my time/attention. Not the clock that stands as a constant reminder that time is limited and I must use it wisely. Only I can stand in my way. And only you can stand in yours. Are YOU the real reason you haven’t reached all your goals? Stop making excuses and make opportunities.

Did you struggle particularly this year with anything? How did you overcome this?
 Have a great day. Read a book and laugh!