Finally Finished (Well Almost)

Hello again. Exciting news! I finally finished my second novel...the first draft that is. It is just so good to have all 20 chapters complete now and in a binder which I will go through page by page and read. I don't know if other writers do it this way, but it works for me. I like to see how the story flows and then I can scribble my changes right on the page as I go.
I am so new at this, but am amazed at how, sometimes, the story seemed to take on a life and direction of its own...apart from what I had originally intended or thought. But when it was finished...I just knew and the joy and explosion of emotions was incredible. I was so thrilled, relieved, and spent! When the last words were written, and the burst of joy experienced, I just sat back in the afterglow of it all.

There were many life happenings that distracted me from being able to write as much as I would have liked to...but those life happenings are what is important...my writing is second to the lives of those I love...always...AKWAYS. My father died. A baby granddaughter was diagnosed with cancer. My god-mother had brain surgery for cancer. And of course even the good things can be a distraction from writing. Another new granddaughter born...and now a new grandson just today! We now have an even dozen grandchildren...together in our blended family...amazing!

But, the hard work on the book is yet to come....EDITING!!!! Before I have anyone else see the manuscript I go through it myself several times and will do so while on vacation the next week or so. I guess it could be easier if I had a lap-top computer...but I don't so...oh well. If one wants to write you do it any way you can.

While on this little trip, I plan to finish gathering material to complete another book I started last year. It is more of an informational book and is a project that I am doing for fun. Would like to incorporate some photos in it...maybe.

I am so happy to hear that my wonderful Aunt from New York City is coming for a visit. She has had an amazing life and has been writing notes for me so I can create a book about her. I am going to try and spend several days with her, at a family gathering, to go over the notes and (hopefully) come up with an idea and story. I would like to get started on it as soon as possible.

I had hoped to work on another children's book after this current novel, but not sure if I will. I try to plan my direction, but many times God creates situations in my life or inspirations that take me a whole other direction. I am always open to His leading. And then there is that little factor of having to generate a certain amount of consistent income to pay bills...the "jobs"...and I have several part-time ones. This allows me the flexibility to still do some writing, but oh how I look forward to the day when I can just write and paint and draw...someday.