For all the hair pulling, formatting frustration and slow or no progress days and weeks we trudge through as writers, sometimes we experience triumph. This was a week of triumphs!
First, my final version of DCYE in paperback came in (2 cases / 36 copies), and I am soooo happy with the final product! The ARC version had an ounce of polishing to be made on minor issues, but the version you buy in-store or online, I'm satisfied with, and I sincerely hope you enjoy it.
Next, Charlaine Harris (an all-time fave author) had wonderfully encouraging words of advice in a message to me. So humbled and excited to hear from her!
Then, I was asked to write a feature article for a major genre fiction magazine (kinda threw up in my mouth a little bit from nerves and being overwhelmed to be asked out of the blue by the Editor-in-Chief)!
And, I got to send out copies of my book to friends and family who've stood by me through everything to get to this place in life and writing/publishing.
My 13-year-old tested for and won her next belt in karate, and my 17-year-old started his first paycheck job (he's been mowing lawns and taking care of neighbors' and friends' pets while they're on vacation / out of town up to this point). He looks so handsome and grown-up in his work uniform!
Our three youngest girls all won Queen in their divisions at their first pageant (I am so not a pageant mom), and we're about to start youth soccer season. My bestie up the street and I will be, umm..."coaching"? We'll see how that goes. ;D
Finally, we got a new puppy! Phoebe's passing last month after 13 years of being our family's loyal canine pal devastated all of us. It was absolutely heartbreaking. Today, though, it was like adopting 'Phoebs' anew. He looks just like her as a puppy, and has the same gentle, loving personality. He (we haven't named him yet) will never replace our sweet girl, but he's definitely going to be our pal for the next season of our lives.
On top of it all, my man is taking me out for Valentine's dinner and has surprises for me waiting at home! My cup is full.
Happy Valentine's weekend all, and may YOUR week be blessed. Thank you for friending, following and caring! One random act of kindness a day can make a person's day and a positive difference in this crazy world. Love wins!
LLIL,
Lynessa