And I have made good on this promise! I went to the Rainforest Writer's Retreat which helped me start and finish a Middle Grade novel in near record time!
My book Tea Time Three came out to an utter lack of promotion on my part!! Arg! I'm sorry book!! At least you have one 5 star review on Amazon! PLEASE check it out! Share the link with your friends! Give me a guest blog spot or an interview!I joined the SCBWI and went to a Middle Grade Bootcamp for aspiring MG authors. The day long workshop was lead by an amazing literary agent who encouraged me to send her my book when it's finished. She encouraged everyone, but she also said it to me specifically. Dare I hope? I don't know yet.
And lastly I jurt returned home from Westercon 69 this weekend armed with new information and an organization of Indie Authors to join called NIWA the Northwest Independent Writer's Association. They are putting on a book fair for Indie authors and I am determined to go to that as well! I also exhibited in the art show and people LIKED my work! Orycon wants me show in their art show and even a big name artists complimented my work!
With so much to do and join I am having to skip things or chose carefully what I go to. What event will give me the biggest ROI (return on investment). Should I try to go to the SCBWI writing retreat? Or more conventions? Which art shows would be best for my work? Should I try to self publish? What writing groups should I join? And OMG how do I promote Tea Times Three?!
I don't think I've ever had such enjoyable problems before! The change of scenery and state has lead to an even greater change in state of mind.
And of course I can never forget to just keep writing!
My husband and I have moved to different states several times (usually job reasons). It's been an adventure each time. It's like a new vacation only cheaper because you had to move there anyway. New people, new restaurants, new activities. We've been in Nashville now for over eight years and it's our final stop, but we sure enjoyed the adventure of all those other moves. I still love seeing your book cover. It's an attention grabber.
ReplyDeleteLocation, location, location! Not just in writing, but in life. Che's right, the area she left (and I still live in) isn't exactly known for its literary leanings. Plus, it's sweltering hot! What you don't know is that Che and I were roommates for several years. Although I miss her, I am excited for her new life and adventures. I assured her all along it would happen, but she never believed me. Ha! I'm always right, Che.
ReplyDeleteI'm not a big fan of moving, although I probably will become so when I retire and move back to Arkansas
ReplyDeleteLinda- Moving around is hard but I'm glad you like where you've landed :)
ReplyDeleteSunny- I love it so much here! And yes- you're always right ;)
Charles- Moving sucks! 6 months later and I'm still unpacking! LOL!
This post reminds me to look through some unopened boxes in the garage. Not sure I will find much I need, they have been sitting since we moved here five summers ago. Does that make me, King of the unpackers?
ReplyDeleteNo, Neil, I hold that title. 11 years ago I moved here. The boxes are still where I dumped them. I keep wondering what they contain. It's like an archeology dig. . . .
ReplyDeleteChe, where are you in Oregon? Charlotte Rains Dixon lives in Portland and is very involved in writing groups, retreats, and such. She even takes a retreat to Nashville---and to France! I can put you in touch with her if you like. Let me know.
ReplyDeleteMy husband and I have been in Richmond for 14 years. We are slowly (emphasis on slowly) decluttering in preparation for our next move.
How lovely that you made good on that promise, Che! And it's certainly paying off. I would so love to go on a writer's retreat again. I've only been to one (two years ago) and I'm way overdue for another.
ReplyDeleteMaggie- I'm in Salem the state capital. I would love to meet more writers! And yes- there are so many writerly things going on!
ReplyDeleteLiane- Thank you! So many things are happening here is't wonderful!