January is for New Year’s Revisions (and plain-old resolutions, for non-writers). December is for celebrating the past year, as YA writer Jennifer Walkup reminded me with her blog post yesterday.
So what did I accomplish? On the face of it, not much. I started the year on editorial sub and ended it unpublished and uncontracted. I didn’t get as much freelance writing work as I needed. I gained five pounds.
Still, there are things I did well. I finished a big revision of my last book that I’m proud of, so it can sit on the shelf looking pretty. I wrote and partly revised a new book that I like very much. I dipped my toe into getting involved in the writing community. I published a couple decent articles that keep my professional credentials current. Most importantly, I spent a year parenting my two wonderful little girls. I celebrate that every day.
Right now I’m waiting on feedback for my current novel, and whatever happens, I I’ll spend a good part of next year revising it. I’m confident I’ll write another novel too.
Other than that, who knows? I’m certain that there will be a lot of changes, probably ones I’ve been dreading (like leaving full-time parenting) and not the ones I’ve been wishing for (a book contract).
This post isn't as celebratory as Jenn's original post, but cheers anyway. Bring it on, 2011. I plan to.
What are you celebrating about 2010?
9 comments:
I think it sounds like you achieved a lot. :) I'm celebrating over the fact that I completed the first draft on my second WIP, and received some great feedback on my first one. Also, I got to leave the country for the first time and visit England. And I met some cool authors at the LA SCBWI this past summer. I have a feeling that 2011 will be a good year. :)
Hang in there! You've accomplished a lot any way you look at it. And parenting is a very rewarding job, indeed. :)
Lisa ~ YA Literature Lover
Yeah, I'd definitely say you've accomplished a lot in 2010, Kelly! Thanks for the link love for the New Year's Revisions Blog Party!
My achievements? More like progress than achievements: wrote a book, joined a critique group, read a ton, connected with literary agents, became a regular blogger, got some great feedback on my writing, and got halfway through my next book. Good year, my shortcomings notwithstanding. :) I know 2011 will be even better for all of us.
You got a lot done in 2010!
Well, thanks all. I'm happy about what I did and how I handled setbacks -- those are the only things I can control. There's not much point in gnashing my teeth about the rest.
Wow, you got a lot done in 2010! Big applause, girl! You're wise to enjoy this special time with your girls; they grow up so fast (or so it seems to me!)
You accomplished a lot in 2010. You just have to take it one step at a time.
Being a parent is the best job in the world anyway. :D
Yay for the awesome you achieved this year! Next year be even more wonderful. And enjoy the time with your girls. :)
The idea of celebrating what has been accomplished this year is a wonderful idea. It's too easy to look back at all the work put in (and lack of results) the past twelve months and only see the negative. Thanks for sharing this, and reminding me to be proud of what I *have* done.;)
I wish you many great things in 2011, Kelly! :)
Jessica
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