And she bounces back . . .

I opened my e-mail today to receive another agent rejection. This was from a simple query letter from someone who already stated they were not taking on clients, so I didn’t take it personally. 

But I also received a letter from an agent who currently has the first 100 pages (requested from the initial query) so we are in stage two of our correspondence. Having read the beginning, she wants the rest of the book now and wants to know if I have it under consideration with any other agents. Timing is everything. The fact is, no agent wants to devote time and energy to a manuscript that may be promised elsewhere before they make a final decision. Luckily, I can still give this agent exclusive consideration, which is interesting because today I was going to crack and send the full manuscript out to another full book request I received. Regardless of my impatient nature, I’ve tried to be respectful of an agent’s time (having been a small business owner makes you very understanding of business practices and the need to respect a firm’s resources. It’s like working as a waiter – you find yourself over-tipping the rest of your life.) Anyway, I’ve been taking it slow when it comes to sending out the manuscript, though it about kills me to do so.

 Anyway, I will begin this morning printing a copy of my book and I’ll drop it off at the post office on my way to my tutoring session with my reading student, the package smothered with good luck kisses, of course.

Just goes to show that diligence is a part of the game. None of this means I’m anywhere near selling this book – but it is a step in the right direction. More importantly, this fills my day with hope and promise and makes me more determined to hang in there. In fact, it makes me want to hunker down and write a few hundred pages of my next novel before lunch. Inspired is a nice place to be.  

Yesterday was Kathy’s birthday. I have to write her card, prepare her gift, and warm up the voice. La, la, la, la . . .

Happy Birthday to you! 

Happy Birthday to you!

I'm so proud to give you a card! 

And be able to watch you read it through! 

She is my constant reminder that it takes time, persistence  and a good attitude to accomplish the truly meaningful things in life.