Newbie author reviews the year

When I was about six, I tried to cross Cottonwood Creek by leaping from stone to stone. I made it to the other side, but my shoes and anklets were wet. That’s how I feel about the last year as I’ve gotten my feet wet as a published author.

Yes, a year ago this month, the UPS guy rang the doorbell and left two boxes of books on our steps. The first copies of By the Banks of Cottonwood Creek had arrived…a week early. I’ve been trying to catch up ever since!

My first book signing was arranged for just two days later. The following Sunday, I signed books at a craft show in Braddock, N.D., (pop. 21). By the time we arrived home, a stranger had left a phone message saying she’d purchased the book. She was enjoying reading it and wanted to know if I had other books out.

That got to be a theme. People who liked the book at all, really loved it. They read it fast and wanted a sequel right away. Could I write another book?

But I was already marketing “Cottonwood Creek” and writing a historical novel. Wasn’t that enough? I had over eight years and my heart invested in my historical novel, so I began working extra hard on it. Then one euphoric day last June, after a marathon writing session, it was finished. Oh my beloved historical novel, may you find a publisher soon!

Meanwhile, I started writing the sequel to “Cottonwood Creek” and am really into it. In fact, I’ve received a few odd looks this year when I talk about the characters as if they are real people. They are to me! They live in my head making decisions, talking to each other, proposing marriage…

Leaping among the creek-washed stones this year, I’ve learned a lot. Chiefly, that it is God who helps me show life on the prairie and how people can live, love and work with Him at the center of their lives.

In a recent rerun of the British sitcom Downton Abbey, the cook, Mrs. Patmore, was going blind. She was afraid to admit it, because as she put it, “What use is a blind cook?” When she was brought into the presence of her employer, Lord Grantham, she expected to be fired. Instead, he arranged for her to have eye surgery in London, so she could continue as a valued part of the household.

That’s how I feel. I have so many shortcomings and blind spots, but the Lord brings me into His presence and lets me know I’m valued. There are so many scriptures that encourage me, but none more than in the book of Philippians. Consider these words:

“Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it…” Phil. 1: 6 

“I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Phil. 3: 14

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Phil. 4: 13

The outpouring of good will from friends and readers also inspires me. Thank you for your kind words, giving editorial feedback, and encouraging me when my doubts and fears creep in. Thank you for purchasing books, providing publicity, stocking the book in your shops, and hosting book signings or readings.

Among my chief supporters are people who pray for me daily. I feel the power of those prayers! I’m especially grateful to Larry, who agreeably waded into this Cottonwood Creek adventure with me. Thank you and God bless you every one.

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