In many ways, October has been easier than September. I can’t decide if I’m happy the weather is cooling down or truly terrified that the holidays are less than a month away!
Accomplished
I finished my novel, did the first round of edits and it is in the hands of my beta readers!
I could say more about this but mostly I’m both stunned and a little bit in denial that I’m actually finished.
Loved
A long time friend has been asking to read my book since she knew the topic. Last Thursday night, which much trepidation, I emailed her a copy of my manuscript and then texted her
“It’s either the worst thing I’ve ever done or the best thing I’ve ever done. I’m not sure which. Please be kind.”
She’s been sending me regular text updates about how she is enjoying it. It’s been wonderful to get a reader’s perspective, especially since this novel is in her favorite genre.
It also helps me from despairing that it’s complete garbage while I wait for the next month or two while my writer’s group does a full manuscript critique.
Improved upon/Needs improvement
I can feel the temptation already to give up. I’ve finally achieved this goal of finishing my novel and the prospect of dipping my toe into the publishing pool is truly terrifying.
I need to find a publisher? Or maybe I need an agent?
What needs improvement most is probably my attitude. Fortunately, my friends, family and fellow writers are keeping me going.
I know historically editing is a long and difficult process for me, but I know that even the best work needs improvement. So right now I’m going to ride the wave of enjoying having finished my book and trying not to worry too much about how hard the edits will be.
Noticed
Have you ever noticed that house projects always take longer than you think?
What was supposed to be a one weekend project of redoing our kitchen floor has now been extended into at least two or three weeks thanks to some unanticipated problems.
There are always problems, and I keep telling myself to be ready for them but apparently I will still continue to feel exhausted and disappointed when things take vastly longer than expected.
November is almost here, the holidays are almost upon us and my kitchen is a disaster. I’m seeing a busy and exhausting November ahead and hoping by the end we’ll have made some progress.
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