Finding progress in going backwards, and other stuff

It has been one week since I posted my theme for the New Year and I've already learned a few important things: Namely, that sometimes going backward is even more productive than plotting/plodding forward. And so, I spent the past week re-revising a large section of my manuscript that I knew, somehow, wasn't doing what it needed to do. I also learned (or re-learned, since I knew this all along but for reasons that probably have to do with one-part laziness and two-parts fear) how important it is to ask the hard questions about what's missing and why things aren't working. Usually, both of THOSE things have to do with something I am trying to write around rather than through. Never a good idea at this stage, though sometimes it's OK in the first draft.

But the work is there. The hard work I've been going after. The true work. So even though it's frustrating to feel as though I'm still on the same chapter I was at the beginning of last week, I know that what comes before will now propel me forward in a truer way than it would have. Sometimes one step forward, three steps (or chapters) back, is exactly right.

Some other things that have been happening:

• You can now read the first chapter of SEE YOU AT HARRY'S via the book page at Candlewick. Just click on "Read a sample chapter." The cover is still getting final tweaks but hopefully it will be ready soon. As reviews begin to pop up on Goodreads, the book is beginning to feel more and more real. Thanks to everyone who has already read the book and shared your thoughts. They are greatly appreciated! :)

• The workshop descriptions for the New England SCBWI conference are now available!. I am thrilled to be co-leading two workshops. One on Friday and one on Saturday. And, that my husband will be coming with me again. I can't wait! This is my absolute favorite conference, both for the workshops, and for catching up with friends. Will you be there?

• I'll be attending my first ever Whispering Pines Retreat as an author mentor in March! The schedule sounds like a lot of fun, with reading first pages, giving workshops, and one-on-one critiques. I've never given critiques like this before, so I'm a little nervous, but also excited to read new work and brainstorm with the writers. And, I've been told the food is out of this world. Yay! Anyone else attending? I've heard registration is now closed and there is a waiting list.

• I started skiing again. My son's ski program allows parents to sign up to ski at a very reduced rate so I decided to take advantage and sign up. Last Wednesday was our first day and it was FREEZING but also beautiful. I was by myself the whole time, which I thought would feel weird, but actually was just what I needed. The snow. The trees. The quiet, gray sky. The delicious moments when you are the only one on the trail, the wind on your face, breathing breathing breathing that clean, cold air. Lovely.

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Monday Morning Warm-Up:

Describe your favorite quiet and alone time. Where are you? Inside? Outside? Is it cold? Warm? Is there an animal nearby? What do you see? Hear? Smell? Why doe this time matter to you?