33 more pages to go. Then my manuscript goes back to my editor. While in full editing mode I try to make the process as enjoyable as possible. Either I go to a nearby cafe’ or another favorite spot is curled in my big wicker chair in my writing studio. It helps to have a great view, as well as a “helper”….even if she is sleeping.
I began Through Frankie’s Eyes manuscript one year ago- almost to the day. Today I’ve completed it and it is now ready to head to my editor, Yvonne. I’m doing the happy dance, but also feeling a bit surreal. I shed a few tears writing and then reading the last few pages of the last chapter.
Today I also officially announced to Frankie the Walk ‘N Roll Dog fans that she is now semi-retired, so that chapter of my life and hers is making a slow transition to allow for the work that lay ahead for me in the editing process of my book, endorsements, cover design, marketing, etc.
It seemed like I was trudging through thick mud when I began this journey to write my story, and now here it is-complete and ready for the next step. But I am reminded again at how things all seem to sync and play out in their own time. Reminded again to trust the process.
It is somewhat bittersweet to know I am done. But now I will look forward to the exciting chapter of editing. I always grow and evolve through the editing process so I welcome it.
So…. forward march to the editor!
I wasn’t planning on submitting my manuscript for Through Frankie’s Eyes, Lesson Learned from a Dachshund on Wheels this soon. But I submitted it to my editor this morning. I planned on going back in for a 2nd revision on my own before I did. But in trying to gather costs together for editing as well as other costs associated with putting a book together, Yvonne, my editor emailed and said she would need to see the manuscript as is at this point to determine a price for me.
My heart began racing. See my manuscript now? In all its imperfections? As well as all my thoughts and feelings? This is a tough thing to do as a newbie writer. Well, I’ve been writing on my blog for quite some time as well as articles,and published my children’s books, but this is a whole new venue for me- so it makes me feel a bit vulnerable- but exciting all at the same time.
I sat there staring at the screen saying in my head, “Should I? Shouldn’t I? Should I? Shouldn’t I?” I realized then how important it is to find an editor you trust and feel comfortable with. I feel that way about Yvonne. I know she will help me make my book be the best it can be. I also know she truly understands my mission and my heart. This is important to me also when working with someone.
I jotted back a quick note saying I had planned on submitting this after a second revision and that my manuscript still needs alot of work. I then attached my manuscript file to my email. Then I sat and stared at the screen for what seemed like the longest time… my cursor sitting on the send button, my finger on my mouse… blinking…blinking…blinking. Ok, here goes…. SEND!
As the day has gone on I feel good about sending my manuscript in its raw form. I can only go up and get better from here. And maybe it was a good thing to submit now so I will have Yvonne’s suggestions and tips to make the 2nd revision even better.
But you know what? It takes courage to share with others what you’ve written. It can feel like you are running naked out in the world! But now that I have hit the send button I find myself excited to hear what Yvonne has to say and how she can help me.
So I just picked a card from my Cheryl Richardson Grace cards and here is what I picked:
FAITH- Have faith. Every event we experience and every person we meet has been put in our path for a reason.
So feeling I needed a little more grace, I picked another card:
PEACE– When we balance silence with activity we discover peace of mind–the source of all joy and happiness.
So time for me to sit in my faith that Yvonne is on my path for a reason, as well as now sit in peace as Yvonne reviews my manuscript. I can do that.