I’m about to head off to a peer-run novel workshop called Blue Heaven. I went back in 2008, when I brought the incredibly clumsy first draft of ABOVE WORLD. Three years later, and I’m bringing the (hopefully less clumsy) first draft of ABOVE WORLD, Book 2.
Things have changed a lot in the last three years. After I attended BH in 2008, I didn’t write for 8 months. I remember being completely consumed by my dayjob at the animation studio. That was my life, and writing was something I squeezed into the interstices. It was over a year before I finally revised the book and started querying agents.
Now, writing is my focus. I work at a part-time job and have a regular freelance gig to pay my bills. These jobs aren’t careers; they have no future. But they leave me with enough energy — and the right kind of energy — to pursue my real passion. After over a decade of writing, I finally consider myself a writer, first and foremost.
In 2008, Blue Heaven gave me the deadline I needed to finish my book. But more important, it introduced me to some amazing writers and incredible people. It reminded me how hard-working my peers are, and how much I want this life for myself.
I wonder what this year’s BH will do.
I just realized that the anniversary of the day we both announced our book deals is coming up. April 21, I think? Will have to check my records… But yeah. Change.
Best wishes for a great workshop. And hooray for change for the better!
Woo! Congrats on finally seeing yourself the way I've always seen you – as a writer, first and foremost. Hugs honey!
I am so, so happy for you – and for me since it means I get to read more of your novels! :)
Knowing that you didn't write for eight months after BH makes me feel okay about doing the same after SH. And now, I'm back in it.
And, yes, I have no forgotten my stick.
I'm glad I could forge that path for ya, and even happier to see your word counts again. Go, team!