Behind the Scenes: Where Have I Been?
Disappearing
You
Sometimes
Just Want to
Disappear
It feels like an eternity since my last post on the Behind the Scenes blog, way back in July. Did you miss me? Don't answer that; I prefer to bask in the illusion that you did! Now, you might be curious about my vanishing act, and I believe you deserve an explanation.
On the Hunt for Creativity
My life had become overwhelmingly intense, juggling deadlines for two major projects: my novel and an online book catalog I had committed to develop for a writers' organization I was part of. My energy was depleted, and my concentration was shot. I knew it was imperative to step away from these projects for a while. So, that's exactly what I did.
At the end of August, a friend and I embarked on a planned road trip. We set out from Seattle, winding our way through Idaho and Montana until we reached our ultimate destination - Yellowstone National Park. We spent three blissful days there, nestled in a cozy cabin amidst the woods, exploring everything the park had to offer. Our adventure continued to the majestic Grand Tetons before we made our way back to Seattle, enjoying a scenic Snake River tour along the route.
Being away from the constant hum of my computer and looming deadlines was incredibly rejuvenating. The breathtaking sights we witnessed and the experiences we shared washed away the stress I had burdened myself with. This break allowed my mind to breathe, giving my creativity the chance to reset and recharge. I returned home with a newfound enthusiasm, ready to channel that revived creativity into my work.
I finished the catalog on time and it received rave reviews. You can take a look for yourself at the Women Writing the West Book Corral. You even might find a book or two for yourself, or for the reader on your holiday gift list.
that consumed my days was with Women Writing the West. I took on the challenge of developing a professional online book catalog to showcase our members' literary works. It was both exhilarating and daunting, a task unlike any I'd tackled before. My deadline loomed large - October 12, 2023 - the day when our creation would be unveiled at the annual conference. I invite you to explore the Women Writing the West Book Corral and share your thoughts in the comment section below. I would love it if you would let me know what you think in the comments section below.
Where have you gone on your vacations? Did you come home relaxed, or …?
But What About North of Normal?
I know you are waiting for an update on the sequel to Success Is the Best Revenge - so many of you have emailed and posted on my social media that you are dying to know what happened to Sara. I can barely contain my excitement as I announce that I’ve completed the first draft! Yes, you read that right - THE END graces the final page! Now, my job is to meticulously edit and revise, ensuring the characters and plot are as vibrant and multi-dimensional as can be, with no pesky plot holes and, more importantly, no typos! Mark your calendars for North of Normal, which is slated to be released on March 8, 2024, which just happens to be International Women’s Day. Ah, the synchronicity - the perfect day to celebrate Sara’s remarkable journey. Stay tuned for details about the upcoming launch party.
Thank you all for your support, as, together, we have come to almost the end of the story of Sara as we know her, together. (Reading between the lines, Sara might just live on in another story with more mystery, suspense, and psychological twists and turns!)
Until next time, keep on reading!
Kathy
