Mid December

Only a couple of weeks until Christmas. It's so hard to believe the year is fast coming to a close. I looked back over my goals for 2006 and couldn't believe the progress I've made in my writing. I achieved every goal I set, and then some. Next year however, is my cut off.

In my five year goal plan, I wrote that if I didn't have a book contract by my birthday in 2007 I'd have to seriously re-assess my direction. I've been slogging away 24/7 trying to make what I love doing into a career, and that's a lot of sacrifice, and a lot of energy put into something that isn't paying off. So, essentially I have one year left to prove myself. If I'm not successful in getting published I won't stop writing my stories but won't make them my entire life either. I'll call writing a hobby and put energy into other things, like giving back to the universe with volunteer work, or taking a part time job. I'll socialize, and travel more. Heck, maybe I'll even start dating. Whatever I do decide, I'm sure my life will be richer for it. Irony is, maybe then I'll sell. Heh.

I stepped down as President of my local writing chapter yesterday. It was a wonderful experience and I learned so much about RWA, LARA, and myself. I also achieved what I set out to do within the rapidly growing group. I know that the incoming President will do an excellent job and I wish her well. I'll stay on the Board but in the Past President position which is more of a consulting role.

My manuscript, Gone Tropical, came third in Where the Magic Begins contest, and I'm extremely proud of that. I don't have my scores yet but this was my first attempt at Romantic Suspense/Adventure and I'm thrilled with the results. The agent who is reading my full manuscript sent a message that she is taking it on vacation with her. Wow! I might have some feedback from her in the early new year. I'm staying positive, thinking all good thoughts about my little story, but if she doesn't take me on as a client, she might offer some feedback and that would be helpful.

Hope you all have a warm and wonderful holiday season!