An Author's Pause

As authors we are always busy waiting. We wait to hear from a publisher, an agent, a contest or a review. The list can go on and on. It feels at times like three quarters of our lives are spent in a state of suspension. Not knowing where we are headed, barely recognizing where we were and muddling through what we need to do today.

We are writing the next big hit, editing for the fifth time and trying to stay on social media with quick quirky tweets, fun Facebook posts, instantly amusing Instagram and the plethora of other sites I'd rather not take the time to list.

That's it isn't though? Time. Everything takes time—every day. No weekends or holidays. Not really. We may say we're disconnecting, dropping out but we never really do ... do we?

We take a quick peek. Check an Amazon status. Graze Twitter for a second and check our emails for a sign someone reacted positive to your submission and wants YOU. All the while still waiting.

And why do we do this daily ritualistic self infliction of agony? The answer is simple. We are authors and couldn't imagine our life any other way. It's the love of words and a relationship that binds us, holds us up, comforts us, drives us crazy, gives us doubt and at times lifts us higher than we ever thought possible. The words know us, understand us and we deliver them so that they may be heard. It's the lifetime partnership of quiet perfection.

Mother's Day

I wanted to write a lovely Mother's Day message but my fingers are touching all the wrong keys. I love the idea of Mother's day. When the girls were small getting up on that special Sunday morning was always such a joy for me. Breakfast as a family (Ronnie usually made pancakes and let me tell you, he makes the best ever!) on a Spring day set aside just for me was nirvana. Flowers on the table, sometimes bought and other times picked from our yard represented life to me.

As the girls grew up and eventually moved out, Mother's Day took on a new tradition. Stevie would bake homemade scones (a fave of mine) and Chris and Fi would go to the International Market for Devonshire Cream. Some jam, tea & coffee with the four of us and our precious Olive around Stevie's table completed the morning and were some of my most treasured memories.

Now all the kids have moved out of state and have their own traditions. Stevie has Olive and Chris two very precocious fir babies. My mom is close by and for me, the day is focused only on her. We get together with my brother and his family and usually have lunch at our house. Mom prefers not to go to a crowded restaurant. And this suites me just fine. It's more intimate and less stress. 

I don't feel the same about this day. It's not a pity me party, it's just what is. Ronnie tries so hard to capture the day and make it what he would hope I could feel, but I just can't. I'm still the mother of two beautiful, talented and unique kids but my time to surround myself with them on this Sunday morning is gone. A new tradition. I celebrate it for everyone else. 

I take joy in the smiles of my sister in-law, my mom, my friends and the sounds of the girls voices over the phone. The countless wishes on social media, the cute pics everyone posts and the look in my husbands eyes when he gives everything he's got to make things special for me.

Time changes all, hearts remain full.

The Art of Not Writing

Now I know this title sounds strange. How could not writing be considered an art? I'm speaking for myself, although I have spoken to many authors who have the same issue as I do. That is the time after you have completed your "baby" and it's in the hands of an editor or beta reader. You're in a state of suspension. Every morning, evening, or whenever you chose to write, you diligently sat down and let the characters in your mind spill out and unfold a story that has been your focus ... your purpose. And when that time is over, I personally am left with a hollow emptiness. Somewhat like empty nest syndrome.

I've created it, nurtured it and soon I will send it out into the world. However, it's not quite time. There are the edits that will be made after it is fingers crossed submitted and accepted, the cover search, the preview and then the availing. But in the silence of the in between I must figure out what to do. I don't want to jump right into the next story. I need time for closure. I usually give myself a week or two. I could read a new book and sometimes I do. But most of the time I can't concentrate because I find myself consumed in the in between. So I search for things to occupy my mind as it finds its way back to a place where I can let the new voices out.

Promo is great because it does take time. I try to get creative, well as much as I can. I'm not very skilled in this aspect of my writing career. Nonetheless, I'm out there plugging away. I find projects. The closet needs to be cleaned out, clothes for Goodwill, new recipes to try for dinner. You get the picture. This is where the art form comes in. Fine tuning and cultivating time. It's actually hard work. Exhausting at times. I'd rather be writing.

So here's to the art of not writing. May it never last long, always result in something productive and never leave you wanting for more.

Winter Holiday 2016 - Get your Pre-Order in Now! Great for a gift too!!!

The end of year holidays are filled with joy as decorations go up worldwide. Parades give everyone a chance to join with others in happiness. Families make plans to gather for meals and celebrations.

A season for joy…

A season for celebration…

A season for family…

Solstice Publishing presents eleven talented authors with a dozen stories that portray the winter holiday season in many ways. Each tale will fill you with wonder, joy, and a sense of earned togetherness.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zm8GCXvEYik&feature=youtu.be

Celebrate with K.C. Sprayberry, Donna Alice Patton, Johnny Gunn, Susan Lynn Solomon, Debbie De Louise, Elle Marlow, Leah Hamrick, Eden S. Clark, E.B. Sullivan, M.A. Cortez, and Rebecca L. Frencl this winter holiday season.

http://bookgoodies.com/a/B01N41UOYH

Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep Vol 4 - Another Eight to Consume, Dare if You Will—Beware of Your Doom.

Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep Vol 4

Welcome to your worst nightmare. Sleep is highly overrated. You could be reading a book guaranteed to keep awake long after the kiddos are in bed and the Halloween candy is tempting you to grab some. Please enjoy these eight tales sure to send you to hiding under the bed!

Solstice Shadows and eight fabulous authors team up to bring you, our faithful readers, creepy tales from all around the world.

http://bookgoodies.com/a/B01M7URA5Z

Blurb

Sleep is impossible after reading these eight tales of things that go bump in the night…

Mysterious Warrior Battles Evil Coven…

Haunted wedding dress horror story…

Every secret has a cost…

Who am I and why am I here?

Long hidden secrets emerge from the pond…

Unexpected consequences from an interruption…

Don’t plan on the usual housewarming!

The perfect relationship from hell!

Sadie K. Frazier, Josie Montano, S.C. Alban, Johnny Gunn, K.C. Sprayberry, Debbie De Louise, Archimede Fusillo, and Alex Pilalis present eight stories of horror sure to have you screaming!

https://youtu.be/2tr5-Z_KNDM

While you’re out and about for these wonderfully terrifying stories, check out our Halloween cookbook, to prepare wonderfully themed meals!

http://solsticepublishing.com/ghoulish-delights-for-your-halloween-fun/

Have a scary time and don’t forget to leave the lights on!