New Year, Same Life

Today is the first day of a new year. But it doesn't really feel new to me because there is so much from 2012 that will be carrying on as 2013 gets its start. I will continue to seek representation for my verse novel, HOUSE OF BONES. I will continue to pursue my picture book projects. I will continue to submit my poetry to magazines for possible publication. I will continue to work in the library three days a week, take care of my family 24/7, and try to find time for all the little things I love to do.

I don't expect 2013 to be much different than 2012.

But...maybe this will be the year that Corey and I will sell one of our picture books. Maybe this will be the year that I will find an agent who believes in my work. Maybe this will be the year that my friends and family will see me as an author, and not as a hopeful wannabe.

I wonder, though, how differently I will feel if those things do happen this year. I suspect that, even though there will be excitement and celebration when I meet those goals, life will go on as it always has.

My life, my happiness, my contentment--these things don't depend on me reaching my writing goals. As much as I would love to earn a living with my writing, that is not why I write. And I would not be the writer I am if that were to change.

So here is to a New Year filled with writing for the love of it, and all the other good things that God sees fit to bless me with.

God bless you as you begin your 2013!