She also told me to start blogging. I definitely didn't know what I was getting myself into or what to expect. Many things have happened and, well, I've learned a lot. I didn't think I was ever interesting so I'm quite flattered all you blogger buddies are reading what I write. I even got to meet some of you in person. So fun. I've found wonderful critique partners, and people that are just plain awesome. The support has been amazing.Thank you! Yeah, you keep me going.
When I started, I finished what I thought was a first draft. I guess now it's sort of like a really detailed outline. I've re-written most of my WiP#1, but I'm happy where it's going. Sure I'm about to rip my hair out at times, but that's part of this whole thing. This journey. I've decided to share my current stats:
WiP#1 --working title: Lingering Souls (first draft/loose outline 87,000 words), re-writes/revisions 60,000 words
WiP#2--outlining
WiP#3--working title: Wrapping Paper currently outlining, 2500 words written.
Six other ideas just waiting.
With all this. I've had to learn how to critique, and how to take a critique (still not easy). I've had an agent tear my work apart, and I've had a senior editor tell me my idea and synopsis were cool, interesting and intriguing. This basically made my year, and pushed me to keep going. For every hit that knocked me down, I searched for something to pick me up. Becoming more positive is something I've had to work hard at (I'm natually a pessimist), and I've had to learn patience. That has been the hardest.
I started this blog like a horse racing towards the finish line. I was everywhere, wanting to know more, thinking I would be finished WiP#1 and query it in about 6 months. For a seasoned author, sure, but for me...no. I'm learning, I admit it. Plus, I have two kids, a hubs, and a household to run. I'm not complaining, I'm just statin' the facts here folks. I was in a hurry to do so many things that I realized I really need to take my time at this, if I don't, stupid mistakes happen.
So I'm ending my freshman year, happy. Like most freshman, I thought I knew it all, tried to rush through it, and possibly partied too hard. The wake up call was learning what it takes, and if I can take it. The answer-- I can, and I can't wait to keep going. It took me this long to pursue this, and I'm going to die trying.
Now that the New Year is here, I have some--ahem--goals/resolutions for my sophomore year:
1. To finish WiP#1--it's been almost two years since I started it, and I want it done. Thanks to all my CPs who have suffered through this.
2. Query WiP#1 in the fall. Don't laugh.
3. Work on WiP#3.Would love to finish the first draft. **fingers crossed**
4. Learn more.
5. Learn even more.
6. Read more than I did last year.
7. Figure out a schedule that works best for my writing.
8. Fit into that schedule some sort of exercise because I ate way too many cookies.
9. Comment more and update this blog. It's been too long.
10. Spend time with the family. I do this now, but it doesn't hurt to try and fit more time in.
Well, there it is. Sure, most of it may be a little above and beyond, but, hey, it's worth a shot.
Let's hear from you:
What are your goals this year?
Was Santa good to you?
Any tips on how to create an awesome writing schedule with family duties? (I'm always looking for advice on this.)
I have some exciting things coming up. Contest--of course. To be announced this next week. Also, another blogfest. This time Writing the Next Line blogfest. I will announce on Wednesday.
Thanks again to Frankie for hosting that awesome No Kiss Blogfest yesterday. I hope to read more entries today!
Have a wonderful day and thank you, thank you, thank you! Here's to 2011! *toasting my glass* Prost!
