The start of a new year is like a blank slate, and we don’t know what will be written upon it. Even if we don’t hold that winning lottery ticket, there are loads of things we can engrave upon it.
My writing pals and I are sharing our hopes on the writing road and in our family life – for 2019 in our #Gr8Blog hop: “What I Want to Accomplish in 2019 Even if I Don’t Win the Lottery.”
Please have a read, and then visit the other #Gr8Blogs linked at the end of this post for more smiles and inspiration.
Whew, what an exciting year 2018 was, huh? We were busy with family activities and the making of “Moonshadow Mae.” Not only is it in hardcover, but we were able to make it in paperback December 11th.
So as 2019 begins, it’s time to set goals in action and plan for what is next. Reviewing a few things I’ve learned this past year has helped me paved the way to new beginnings.
I learned more on marketing and the technical side on how to put my books together.
As you know by now, I should be an expert on how to contact website providers and worked through the issues that arose this past year, but I can’t say that’s true. The learning curve will be forever there for me on that topic.
In April, I will approach five years as a writer and illustrator. What a wonderful learning experience it‘s been along the way.
I must remind myself:
*Not to rush and slow down to learn the steps before releasing a title. Patience is a word I say to myself often.
*Have many extra eyes read the content and evaluate my illustrations. Speaking of illustrations, studying a lot more on the technicalities on digital drawing, has helped. I can’t wait to see how much more to learn in the years to come.
*I learned to join a “street team” of friends to turn to for help, when needed. It’s a must in this writing journey. Bouncing ideas around and working through problems has been beneficial to us all.
*I learned to stay true to my heart. Just because a particular topic is hot on the market for children’s books doesn’t mean that subject is one I should write. If I were to make something out of a book not from my heart, it wouldn’t work, and definitely would not be not fair to the readers.
What’s coming for this next year?
This last fall, ideas came for new stories. I won’t go into it right now so I don’t reveal too much, but it’s something that will please readers with these next ones.
I can tell you, one will be very interactive with readers. I can add, this picture book will be for older readers. The reading level will be easy for 3rd graders, but the project is for those that can follow written directions. Not to say younger ones will not enjoy this story. With the help of an adult, it‘s a fun activity for both to enjoy Let’s say, I tried this out with a few children younger than 3rd grade and we had a blast.
The next idea for a book will melt the heart of readers. You know how I love including family and friends into my stories so I will look for characters soon. Watch for a shout out when the time comes.
I plan to reach out for more interviews and author visits. I’m waiting back to hear from an event coming in May. I’ll keep you posted.
What are your plans for this next year? As you think about your goals, read these inspiring posts below from my author friends. They have many aspirations and theirs may even spark a few new ideas for you.
Thanks for stopping by! What do you want to kick off your bucket list this year? Please share in the comment section.
If you blog and want to join us on this hop, just add the family-friendly link to your blog post in the comment section. We’ll visit and give you some blog love.
Best wishes for a wonderful 2019!
Happy Reading,
Rosie
Have fun visiting these author’s sites and goals for 2019: