2009 was the year from hell for me. Did I mention there's also the 2010 run off?
The death of a parent followed by filing for divorce is no one's idea of a fun time.
My muse's decided to sit back and take a rest. I was on deadline and nothing would friggin' come out like it should. I'd write but I knew it wasn't right when it reached the page. Add to that some really bad reviews and you have a doubting writer.
Through the pile of crap, I continued to plug along and then one day, a characterization piece and a plot piece fell into place. Yep, you guessed it. I typed like a mad woman up until the last minute on the story. I hit send and the fears shoved their way to forefront. I loved my Christmas story, but would anyone else?
Just when I needed some good news in the worst way, I received two reviews that helped me get back to where I needed to be. The chocolate I ate only hurt my waistline but that wasn't my main concern.
My first review for Christmas of Hope came in the other day. Lainey at Coffee Time Romance gave the story 5 cups. The highest rating (and my first 5 cuppa ever!)
A few days before, Valerie from Love Romances and More gave Cowboy of the Night, 4 hearts and a great review.
I know reviews are subjective and we're supposed to have faith in ourselves and our talent. But some days, okay months in my case I craved affirmation that my writing is really and it made someone happy.
My best friends are worth their weight in gold. I couldn't have gotten through this mess without them.
What do you do when you it all falls apart like it did for me?
9 comments:
I'm so sorry you went through all that! No wonder you're so glad to see the back of 2009. I think doubting our talent is just part of being a writer, unfortunately. I haven't met one yet that didn't second guess themselves. I'm so impressed that you kept plugging away through all your hardships. I hope 2010 brings you calm seas :)
Hi Kaylea,
I have high hopes for 2010. Lots of goals to strive for and a chance to heal.
I think you're right about all writers doubting themselves. At least I'm in good company!
Hugs and thanks for the support,
Tambra
Having a support group like you do is important in these times. Where would we be without those empathetic shoulders and understanding in spades nods? Probably out of the writing business.
Good, close writing friends are golden, every writer needs a small group. Together they can prop and encourage and commiserate and cry and laugh and cheer with you. But more importantly, they can help you get through the worst of times, when everything seems pointless.
I'm sorry you had such a tough year! I'm glad those reviews gave you what you needed when you needed it. When things are tough, I do what you do, turn to friends :) I really hope 2010 is a better year for you!
Sorry 2009 was so rough.... so glad it's over! ;) Congratz on your first 5 cup review, I'm so happy for you!
Best of luck in 2010 :)
2010 is going to be a kickass banner year for everyone. I feel it in my bones, but it's more pleasant than arthritis. *g*
2007-2008 were my sucky years. I went through so much that I won't even spill all over here and you know what, I didn't write. I crawled into a bottle and didn't do anything meaningful. But somewhere along the way, face down in a bathtub with 17 Rum and Pineapples being vomitted out my nose, I realized that it wasn't good enough. I was going to be happy and there were certain things that I was going to make happen.
And you know what? I'm on the way, babe. I believe that you can choose to be happy.
I'm thrilled for your reviews, that's great. Believe in yourself, dollface and you'll get everything you want. *hugs*
Tambra, I'm so glad you got some richly deserved kudos. And Saranna is right. The only ones who can make it happen is us. So let's all dig in and just do it! (Great peptalk, Saranna...I've so been there...)
Congrats to you!! Always wonderful to read about other writer's success stories!!
I feel for your year though. My health has sucked the last couple years, but I find my motivation and escape through my writing. So I have a bad attitude and don't care if no one else likes my stories. Okay, maybe a little. ;-)
CHEERS TO 2010!!
Hi W.J.,
Thanks for stopping by. It's nice to know I'm not the only one who has a bad attitude. Like you, I want to write and yeah, I care if people like them.
I want to help people have a dose of hot, happy goodness. And when they think of my stories, they'll want the next one.
Hugs,
Tambra
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