Have You Published Your Book Yet?

I get asked this question every time I go to a family party or see friends I haven't seen for awhile. While I realize they are only trying to be nice, to act interested in what's going on in my life, the question can feel like a dig. Plus it doesn't really make a lot of sense. Unless I want to self-publish, which I am not against just not there yet, I really don't do any of the publishing. What they could ask is: Do you have an agent yet? Sadly the answer would be a big resounding NO. But even if I did it would be years before I actually had a tangible product to show them. Yes show them not give them as I want it to be my profession after all. The more I learn the more I understand, this is a process, and a slow one at that. So I guess my point is, if anyone knows an author, ask about their book, but don't act like getting published is the only accomplishment. I wrote a book consisting of 75,000 words. That is pretty cool in and of itself. Right?

My Mom Loves To Read

Yesterday someone asked me what I would want my children to remember about me as a mother. My answer was that I wanted them to know I love them and that nothing is more important to me than my family. One of the things I love the most about my mom is her passion for reading. I remember growing up she was alwasy reading a book. She would finish one and pick up another. It is truly her favorite thing to do. As a child, I didn't really like reading much. (Gasp for anyone who really knows me.) My mom was really worried, she thought I was missing out on something great. So she got Little Women for us to read together. It was wonderful. (I have read the story since and didn't enjoy it as much.) After that we read The Secret Garden. And then I just started liking reading. I am so grateful that she felt it was important for me to enjoy reading and took the time to help me learn how. I would never have discovered my passion for writing without it. So I advise all parents to read with your kids. And thanks Mom!

Can't We All Just Get Along?

The easy answer, no. But as I am always asking, begging, and threatening my kids - they still fight. A lot. They were out of school recently, for three weeks, and the fighting grew even worse. I asked my son why and he told me "We're bored." Conflict, good or bad, is entertainment. Sometimes I will be reading a book, and when things are going really well for the characters, I notice my mind starts to wander. I think about how I should be cleaning my house, or writing my own book. But when everything keeps going wrong I can't seem to put it down. The same with movies, and life, I guess for that matter. Things are interesting when they aren't perfect. It made me think that next time I am irritated by things going so badly, I should be grateful. I will appreciate the easy more. Also it gives me great ideas for my books.