A Writers Journey

It's been awhile since I've posted a blog. I've been a very busy bee. The holidays were awesome. From Thanksgiving through New Years and then a girls getaway cruise, it was a whirl wind of family, friends and fun times. It was exhausting, but I wouldn't trade it for the world.

I did keep writing though. I'm about half way through Book #2. In fact I got so caught up in writing that I didn't do anything with Book #1. Oh, Book #1 now has a name. Murder One Door Over is the official name. If it ever gets published who knows what name it will have but for now, no more Book #1. It's kind of like finally have a name for your unborn child.

Which leads me into announcing that grandchild #10 is on the way. Expected arrival is the end of June. YEAH!

Back to the writing journey. I attended the January meeting of Sisters In Crime North Dallas (SinCND). It was there that I learned about the DFW Writers Conference coming up in April here in Fort Worth. I also learned about another group of mystery writers, the Mystery Writers of America, South West.

I signed up for the DFW Writers Conference and yes, I'm going to make my first pitch to either an agent or editor for my book. Talk about nervous and excited, I don't know which I'm more of at this moment. According to their web site there is a class for Introverts. That will be top on my list to attend.

One of the hardest things I've done this past year, is attend meetings alone. I don't do many things alone, usually my husband, a child, a friend or even a grandchild have been with me. Going alone, it's like going to a restaurant and eating alone. I don't think I've ever done that. There's always a drive thru available, where you can eat in the car or take it home. There, I'm never alone. My dog is always available to sit under the table while I eat. Since I talk to her like a person, it's like having a friend. Don't worry I've not lost it and think she answers, but she's still a comfort and let's me talk without interrupting.

Going to this conference alone will be a big step for me, just like last Saturday. I attended the Mystery Writers of America meeting in Addison. I went alone but there were a few familiar faces. The guest speaker was Kendel Lynn, the President of Sisters in Crime North Dallas and also the Vice President, Melissa Lenhardt was there. That was comforting to this introvert. I visited with some of the ladies near by me and even stayed for lunch. I plan to attend more of their meetings in the future.

I learned a lot from the presentation Kendel gave on Saturday. There are so many things to do to prepare to sell a book. The work you need to do before even pitching your book is overwhelming. The list of what you need to do after someone has agreed to sign you as a client or publish your book is even bigger.

I spoke to Kendel while waiting for our food. She shared even more tips to my already overloaded mind. The thing that stood out the most, and I agree is key, is organization. I've got to organize my list, prioritize and put deadlines on everything. Staying on task is going to be my goal.

I hope you'll stay with me as I make this journey. It's going to be long and tiring, but in the end I truly believe it will be worth it all.

Kimberly Jo