It is the time of the year to become introspective and reflect on the year that has been. I love doing this – maybe it’s a writer’s way of pulling all the loose narrative threads together into a seamless whole. Not that my life is a perfectly plotted story and surely it is not completely finalised yet!
The strong plot of 2015 was my writing. As my youngest kid started school this year, I’ve had more time than I’ve ever had before to write. A pivotal plot point happened in June, when I pitched my first children’s book to six publishers at a literary speed dating session. (Note: I have never speed-dated and it has been over twenty years since I have dated anyone other than my husband!) All six publishers said yes to reading the first three chapters. I walked away feeling euphoric, that those six yeses had validated four years of hard work. Since then, three publishers have said no – still waiting to hear back from the other three publishers.
The writing thread intensified in November, when I wrote the second book in my children’s series – 55,638 words in a month. As the heroine of my own story, I had no idea I was capable of writing so much, so quickly. Empowering!
And my writing path veered slightly to the left when I launched my website and blog, thanks to the talented and patient Lisa Bevan. I’m so grateful to everyone who has subscribed, commented or passed on the link to a friend.
Of course, the cast of characters for 2015 includes my ever supportive and encouraging husband, plus Mr 12, Miss 9 and Mr 6 – a wonderful set of quirky, creative, curious characters. Added to that, a lovely bunch of friends and family who add so much love and laughter to my days.
There were a few sub-themes to keep the pace moving along – we completed the plans for our renovation and look forward to the building part in 2016. And there were the usual kid sporting commitments to keep me grounded and out of my ivory tower – does Mr 12 really need to play basketball five times a week? Apparently so!
No worthwhile book is without conflict but I’m very lucky 2015 was light on with drama. I’m disappointed the literary speed dating session hasn’t led to a publishing contract, and I’m disappointed I missed out on a mentorship program. And there were the usual run of the mill illnesses and broken-down car issues and we’ve run out of fruit for school lunch boxes type of dramas. Nothing too serious.
I hope 2015 was a wonderful year for you and that 2016 is ………….. (insert word of choice here) for you.
I’m going to take a break from blogging for a few weeks while we have a week away, then move house. I’ll be back at the end of January. Happy new year!
Hi Karen – I’ve thoroughly enjoyed your posts during 2015. Can’t imagine how you found the time to read so many books!!
I’m struggling to get through “A Game for all the Family” by Sophie Hannah at present, not helped by all the xmas interruptions but I’m determined to persevere.
Happy New Year to you and all the family and good luck for the renos! Wendy
Happy new year, Wendy! Thanks for your recommendation – I haven’t heard of Sophie Hannah – will look her up at the library. I don’t watch much tv, if any, and I usually take my book in the car so I can read a few pages before picking up the kids from school or at the kids’ swimming lessons. Where there’s a will there’s a way to read!
Have enjoyed getting to know you, Karen, and will keep my fingers crossed for good news for one of your remaining publishers! 🙂
Thanks, Nicole. I have enjoyed our social media conversations, too!
Another year of success for all my talented family. Karen following your dream is one of these successes. Lessons you are passing onto your children of perseverance, following through with a plan will ensure your children success in the future. Enjoy the rest.2016 will be busier and even more exciting. From your loving mum-in-law in Ireland.
Thanks for your support, Pam!