I'm BACK in the Saddle, Again...

Picture this: two writers sitting in a coffee house, one sipping on an espresso while the other slurps an ice coffee.

"So, how was your summer?" asked the Espresso.

"The usual: sun, sand, running kid A to point B, while keeping kid C and D happy. Oh, and being a bit more lazy than I'd planned with my writing," answered Slurper.

Expresso shifted uncomfortably in her chair. "So, no progress on your manuscript?"

"Haha!" begins Slurper. "What manuscript?" They both chuckled."No, really. I made some progress, more research and adding material. Frankly, it's kind of a blessing in disguise. I think the story is much deeper and way more visually vivid."

"That's a positive," said Expresso.

"Sure. What doesn't enlist a writer to quit only makes him/her and the story stronger, right?"

IMAGE CREDIT

Any of that sound familiar? Well, I've officially tugged on my cowgirl boots and hopped back onto that writing, editing, and social media-ering horse again. And I'm thrilled!!! I've missed you all so, so much.

Briefly, if you remember back in July I set summer goals HERE. I've reached a few, while putting some off and taking on a few new ones. I read a ton - some I'd said I would; some new ones via authors who asked me to. (LUV it when another author trusts me enough to read and review their work. Makes me feel all gooey inside.)

I've been on sub for about six weeks now, just waiting and waiting... My agent feels confident, but we'll see. She's also pitching two of my picture books to the world. I'm really excited about that. Send me positive vibes! While I'm in the waiting arena over my YA, said agent mentioned she'd been asked if I write MG.

Well, yeah. Thus the real explanation for the above dialog skit. I've been working on an MG manuscript I'd started last year. I loved my MC, but never felt drawn where to take her. The beginning of my summer break gave me that insight. I've developed a unique mind map for this MG story and world, but, to be successful with it I knew more research was needed. Actually, it's like taking a class in said subject (my secret world-building...shhhhh....) Thanks to Theresa, Angela, Sharon, and Kai for being so patient waiting for new material. <3

Lastly, a few of you know that one of my summer goals was to plan the launch of my new book cover & swag design biz. I have designed seven pre-made covers and dabbled a bit with the business side of it all from pricing to marketing to scheduling clients for custom covers. However, recently I was asked to participate in an exciting new project - a steampunk anthology. I've decided to write up a story, so........this will delay launching my cover biz. 

BUT...and this is a huge but that I could use your help with...if any of you need a cover or know of someone in need of a cover feel free to offer my services - at least to chat. I'm open to designing any cover and/or swag before my launch, which I'm thinking will be pushed off until later October. If you look at my page header, you'll now see a tab reading My Book Cover Design Biz! I've posted a few mock cover examples for people to get an idea of the quality of my work and ideas.

Okay, so, whatch'ya been doing all summer long???? I REALLY want to know.