Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Digging In Frozen Dirt With A Broke Shovel

Hello, Friends!
 
For some of you out there in cyber land, the title of today’s post makes perfect sense, right?  This is how I’ve been feeling lately. So what do I do? I find the duct tape! That’s what I do. Then I tape up my shovel and wait for the ground to thaw. Once it softens up, I start digging again. But just as cruel as the first frost is to flowers, so is fate to the weary digger. The second I think I’m making real progress, I hit a rock and break the handle on my shovel again.

Now, a lot of you may be reading this, wondering if I’ve lost my mind. Of course I have. A long time ago, but that’s not the point. What I’m really talking about, is my journey toward publication. I’ve had highs, lows, and too many rewrites to count, but something keeps me from giving up. In the end, I hope I’m not standing with a broken shovel. Only time will tell the outcome of my efforts. No matter what, I can smile, knowing I gutted it out and pursued my dream, and there isn’t an agent, editor, or publishing house, who can take that away from me.

If anyone else knows what I’m talking about, please comment and share your feelings. And if the ground isn’t thawing quickly enough, break out the blow torch! Until the next time, happy writing, friends! J

17 comments:

  1. Patience, my dear. Keep at it.

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    1. Thanks, Jessie!

      While I wait, I'm on to something new--something with a lot less complicated plot, and it's a dystopian! :)

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  2. Traditional publishing moves at a glacial pace. The metaphor of frozen ground is definitely appropriate.

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  3. And if you can't get the shovel in the ground,forget the hole and build a box. Sometimes boxes make more sense...and you can paint the box whatever color you want. :)

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    1. Hey, Elizabeth, fancy meeting you here!

      I'm all for pretty boxes! I breaking out the paint! :)

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  4. Okay something to think about here, I have featured a new publisher and they are asking for submissions. You are welcome to ask questions!

    Nas

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    1. Thank you! I'll pop over and check it out. :)

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    2. Thanks so much for the heads up, Nas. I just submitted to Escape Publishing! I'll keep you updated. :)

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  5. This business never moves fast enough for me. I've submitted a manuscript to a publisher and find myself checking the email when I know they said six weeks. I understand highs and lows. I feel I've had both in the same day. Chin up!

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    1. Thanks, Brinda!

      I know what you mean about obsessing over inbox, lol. I had an agent read my full 3 TIMES, only to turn me down. That was only a couple of weeks back, so I'm still recovering. I've got 9 queries out; 2 of which are w/small pub houses. I'm so glad I've got other writers to chat with. It makes coping a little easier. :)

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  6. Love the honesty, friend. Your journey is an example to others. Keep stabbing that ground, girl, but breathe every now and then.

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    1. Yay! I'm so happy to see you here, Shannon. And you're a wise lady. Breathe, I will. :)

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  7. "No matter what, I can smile, knowing I gutted it out and pursued my dream, and there isn’t an agent, editor, or publishing house, who can take that away from me."

    THIS, THIS, THIS!!! Welcome to the world of blogging too. :) No matter what, never ever give up. You can do it. You're too talented for it not to happen. And the best part is, writers have more options now than ever.

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    1. Thanks, Tina!

      And that's so true, this is a great time to be a writer. We just have to keep pushing ahead. :)

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  8. I read a book over my break that was sooo good! Loved the author and when I read about her I discovered it took her five years to write her first book!!! I think you are doing great!!! Try to see the big picture!! God has big plans and don't forget it missy! He has given you incredible talent and I know it will be blessed! Keep your head up! xoxo ~Savanna

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    1. Aww, Savanna, I looove you! Thanks so much for taking time out to check out my new blog! I miss you!!! And thanks for reminding me that God has a plan! You're the best! :)

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