In 2004 I retired from my full time job as a school principal. Within a few months I was convinced that God wanted me to write books for children.
It has been a long thirteen years of learning, writing, waiting, and then doing it all again and again. As a matter of fact, I’m still doing it.
When I started this journey I had no idea there was so much to learn about writing for publication. I remembered all of those As on high school writing assignments. And I thought I was a pretty good writer.
I laugh now at the visions of book deals and royalty checks that danced in my head the first few years.
I also remember the months of discouragement and frustration that came and went year after year.
I appreciate now the lessons of persistence, patience and practice that kept me going.
Signing my first contract with a traditional publisher is rewarding. I’m excited to dig into the work ahead of revising and compromising, marketing and even the world of social networking.
I know that “success” (aka publication) is never insured. It will come one book at a time. One story at a time. One idea at a time. I pray God will continue to polish the creativity and communication skills He blessed me with, and continue to encourage me as I try to honor Him with the small gifts He has shared with me.
Thank you all for your prayers and encouragement. I hope you enjoy my occasional updates on the progress of the first two books in the Thank You, God series.
Thank you, Little Lamb Books, for believing in these books and giving me this opportunity.
Jean I am so excited for you and wish you much success. I can’t wait to read your books. I know that God will bless you in this new endeavor.
Thanks so much, Lynell. I’ll keep you posted. Blessings to all of you!
Congratulations. We are on similar paths. I am semi retired as a nurse and have been writing for years but now seriously working towards getting more published. God bless
Thank you, Terri. I’ll pray the Lord directs your steps toward publication, Terri.
persistence, patience, and practice. sounds like a good outline for a talk! Amen to all.
I’m so excited for you, dear Jean, and I look forward to reading your updates on the publishing process. Praying God will use you mightily through your gifts and talents.
Thank you, Cathy! Hope to see you next Sept. at Write2Ignite!
I understand the long haul. So happy for you. Hope you find your way into lots of little hearts.