goodbye 2009
In my neck of the woods, there are about 3 hours left in 2009. Then we’ll have a brand new, fresh and shiny year.
As I look back on the year, overall, I’m pleased with what I’ve accomplished and had some great experiences along the way.
Since this blog is mainly about my writing life, I’ll focus on what I consider to be my successes this year.
Though my blog suffered from extreme neglect during the final three months of 2009 (due to family issues, increased SCBWI responsibilities, an intense revision of my WIP, and a hectic work schedule), I managed to update it fairly reguarly the other nine months. I’ve Tweeted on and off and really enjoy it (especially the Kidlit chats), but I’ve also found that it’s the first thing to get pushed aside when life gets too busy. While I’ve read comments by social networking gurus that writers should maintain a Twitter presence and use it to grow an audience, I’m not convinced it’s crucial to the well-being of my career. Facebook, however, seems to be easier for me to keep up and I enjoy the interactions there. The newspaper I work for started a Facebook fan page this year and it’s been a fun way to connect with readers.
I only got to attend one writer’s conference this year, but what a conference it was! The 2009 SCBWI-Midsouth conference was two days jam-packed with inspiration and information. I gleaned some great tips for my WIP, and thanks to a presentation by editor Cheryl Klein, had a couple of a-ha moments that led to major changes in the manuscript.
I also attended the Southern Festival of Books in Nashville. I heard Kate DiCamillo speak and got to hang out with some of my writer and illustrator friends. I also made the difficult and painful decision to relinquish my volunteer role as organizer of the SCBWI-Midsouth booth at the festival. As much as I’ve enjoyed doing it, I have too many other responsibilities now and it’s time to let someone else enjoy the blessings of serving in that capacity.
I can’t say I’ve set any goals for 2010 — at least not yet. I have a couple of WIPs I’d like to finish; both are novels and I’d like to complete both drafts and have one polished by the end of the year.
The best part of 2009, when it comes to my writing life, has to be the friendships that have deepened and the new acquaintances I’ve made. I am so blessed to know so many talented people from all over the world!
I raise my Diet Coke to you, 2009, and take a sip in honor of 2010.
Best wishes to all!