The wait is the worst, isn’t it? That’s really more of a statement than a question, but I’m sure you’ve had situations where you’ve done all you can, and the only thing left to do is wait. You find yourself doing odd things, your mind wanders aimlessly, you toss and turn when you should be sleeping. Finally, the anxiety starts to bubble over and you dig deep to make sure you don’t over-react. At least that’s what happens to me.
Four weeks ago, I finished writing my first book. A real, for true novel. I breathed a huge sigh of relief when I wrote The End, culminating a four-year process. Then I woke up the next morning, practically in a sweat, and said “Stop! I’ve got to change that scene,” which ignited another week-long writing frenzy to rewrite, and then find and fix every ripple of the story that needed adjusting. Finally, I crossed my fingers before I wrote The End a second time.
Three weeks ago, I gave it one more spit and polish and finally hit the SEND button and watched the screen as my manuscript flew off to my editor. And the wait began. How many plot shifts would she recommend? When did I have a point of view change without even knowing it? What characters should I break-up with?
Now, I had no idea how long it takes to edit a romantic-comedy, but the anxiety was gnawing at me. Don’t get me wrong –this isn’t the same anxiety that landed me in a shrink’s office for a couple of visits after I had to let go of some staff a dozen years ago. No, no, so far I’ve been able to manage this trip down anxiety lane with a box (or two) of white-fudge covered Oreos.
Remember, it took me four years to write the darn thing, yet two weeks after I sent it, I wanted feedback! Even I knew I wasn’t being logical. Because my editor and I had spoken on the phone and exchanged several emails prior to this point, we’d developed a nice relationship, so I decided to send her an email, trying to elicit some feedback.
“Xxxxxx, I have no idea how long it takes to edit a novel and of course, I’m beginning to get a wee bit anxious. Therefore, I thought I’d offer a simple multiple-choice question for you to answer regarding my manuscript.
5 – I think you have a best-seller on your hands.
4 – I’m finding snow drifts, slippery roads, and lots of gray skies, but by spring, things will look brighter. I wouldn’t give up hope.
3 – Not bad for a first attempt. Take what you’ve learned, put this on the shelf, and apply everything to your next work.
2 – You may want to inquire about refunds for all the workshops you’ve attended.
1 – I hear you make lovely quilts. You should stick with that.
N/A – It’s the holidays, for crying out loud. I’ll get back to you in 2019. “
Her response was immediate and priceless and helped me relax, and I have a much better understanding of the timeline. Which is good, because those white-fudge covered Oreos are a seasonal item and will be gone in a week!
I think fudge covered Oreos is a perfectly appropriate stress reliever — although I would have chosen chocolate fudge not white… but if it works for you that is all that counts.
Thanks, Mary. I’m a white fudge woman, all the way.
Peppermint ice cream is a great soother.
Relax and enjoy Winter solstice.
Merry Christmas ?? ??
I, for one, can’t wait to read it! But as for anxiety I recommend exercise (oh sorry that’s a bad word) or drugs!
Never drugs and seriously, not that much anxiety. And yes, exercise is always good, but not as good as my cookies!
Love it! Another seasonal goodie.
I am looking forward to reading a signed copy of your book. Remember waiting in Florida is also a good plan. Sunny skies and warm weather always make things easier.
Merry Christmas!
You are so true – nothing makes things better than sun and warmth. Merry Christmas to you, as well.
I’m so curious to hear what her timeline is, Pam! Love the multiple choice option!
Thanks, Kate. The mulitple choice option was fun. I expect to hear from her in a couple of weeks.
I have watched the process up close and personal. Cannot believe it has been four years!
You will have great feedback I am sure…….you are a terrific writer!
Now that is kindness. Thanks!
Starbucks Carmel cream brûlée’s the best!!
Thanks, but not for me. A candy bar-in-a-cup, I call those.
My heroine! I guess I really should start now if am ever gonna get a book completed. Looking forward to reaping the fruits of your labors with a good read. Oreos: the only store bought cookie I eat.
Oh no, this is not heroine worthy,I assure you. But I appreciate the support.
Such a big milestone for your writing career! I too, am eager to read it and hope for an autograph on my collector copy!
Of course, but I, still some distance away from that point. Appreciate the support.
Take the next several days to enjoy the Christmas spirit and cherish your memories of Christmas. Then, take the remaining cookies as a treat to those in your yoga class. You are doing yoga aren’t you? Time to be in the moment,
Thanks for the suggestion. I’m busy quilting though just in case the answer is #1.
I’m voting for a best seller on your hands!!!
Thanks, Mary. You’re the best! I’m busy quilting though, just in case.
Did you really send her that MC question? Hilarious!
You bet I did. I always like to give someone a soft way to deliver bad news.