We are moving towards publication

This is a really exciting time for me, but it’s also forcing me to pivot constantly.

It’s also confusing. The chapter numbers keep changing. For example, once again, I just published a chapter called “Chapter 20” only this time instead of being called “A Smoking Web of Relationships,” it’s called “Out of Sync” (oddly appropriate). I apologize for the confusion. I promise you, it’s the next chapter in the book, but I keep revising the chapter numbers, and so … okay, you get it.

The good news is, you are getting the latest revision

My editors and my publisher believe I need to build more time into our publication schedule for crucial prep work — I am determined to give my readers the best reading experience possible — so that means we’re looking at a later publication date.

Tentatively, we are planning for June 15. That seems pretty firm at this point.

At times, the amount I am doing seems overwhelming, but I keep thinking of the famous scene from Anne Lamott when her brother was so freaked out by a school project — and their dad says, “Bird by bird, buddy. Bird by bird.”

I’m also experiencing what every writer faces when you send your precious manuscript into your editor — good editors are honest in their feedback, and your feelings become secondary.

The thing is the book.

I had to think again of my conversation with my goddaughter, when at the age of 9, she sent me a poem. When I gave her the feedback, I told her, “This isn’t about you — it’s about the piece you wrote. We’re going to change that. It doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you.”

But even though I gave that wisdom to her, it doesn’t make receiving tough feedback any easier. As a writer, you feel emotionally attached to your writing.

The key is that you keep pushing forward, that you don’t give up.

“Bird by bird, buddy, bird by bird.”

Thanks for hanging in there with me, dear readers.