Successes: Looking back at 2018 & Looking forward to 2019

This is a departure from my normal blogging. I’m participating in Julie Hedlund’s 12 Days of Christmas so today is when we celebrate successes and I’m sharing mine here.

• My first picture book is under contract and being released 2/19/2019 to coincide with the full moon!

Aliana Reaches for the Moon

• I have participated in 12×12 which is an online group of committed picture book writers at all stages of the journey. I learned a lot from webinars and other members and I participated actively offering critique and feedback.
• I wrote 8 new manuscripts and did considerable revision on all 8 plus a few old ones.
• I worked hard on pitching and getting ready to query.
• I read at least 5 picture books every week as part of my study of craft.
• I read 65 books this year not including picture books. This is an increase from last year’s 50 books.
• Related to above, I joined a newly formed book group in January that read challenging books and actually spends each monthly meeting discussing the book!
• I blogged almost every day; offering a combination of photography, poetry, and short information pieces.
• I’ve received 2 endorsements from STEM experts for my book and reviews are starting to come in and they all look promising.
• I’m working on planning 2019 events to promote my book because my main goal is sharing it with children.
• I got Charlie in April, and if you follow this blog you’ve seen quite a bit of him. He’s wonderful in so many ways and has helped me achieve a few personal goals related to making friends, spending more time outdoors, and more hiking.