Wednesday, January 21, 2015

My First...

2014 was riddled with firsts for this girl! I feel like the learning curve was pretty steep. There were times when I felt like the proverbial cartoon character who runs headlong into a wall and slides to the floor with a screeeeeeee

Of course, there were also the times when I felt like the Queen of Everything. Little Miss Oh-So-Popular. Let's be honest, those were the best!

Since it was also my first year with a bonafide website, all of the ups and downs are nicely documented. And since it's an anniversary of sorts, I'm sharing them with you!  Enjoy!


My Year of Firsts:
  • The first time I called myself a writer. In public. Out loud. (And yes, people were quite surprised.)
  • The first time I became a dot.com. Seriously, I had no idea what I was doing. (Most days I still don't. I just do my best to be genuine and positive--or at least funny--in my online interactions.)
  • My first writing conference. I was so scared. And everyone was so lovely. I can't wait to go back this year.
  • The first time I worked with professional editors. That was interesting. You never know what will happen when you pass your work onto someone else. In my case, I couldn't have been more happy. They caught a multitude of rookie mistakes, helped define my characters, and basically made me look good! Thanks Cedar Fort!
  • My first Geek Fest at Salt Lake Comic Con! Let's just say I found my Mecca... And yes, I discovered that I can rock Geek Chic! (And I'm going back! Doctor Who Panel--what?!)
  • The first time I saw Becoming Beauty's cover. Can you say gorgeous? The moment was swoon worthy. I've never enjoyed looking at any boy as much as I have loved looking at my cover. (Okay, maybe Stephen Amell. Or Tom Hiddleston.)
  • The first time I could call myself an author because my book had been picked up! Of course, I had to establish an online presence. Inside, I was still freaking out and feeling like an impostor. Outside, I was pasting on a big smile and pretending like I'd done it all before.
  • The first time I held my book in my hands. And took my first #BookSelfie. That was surreal, wonderful, and terrible all at once.
  • Running my first Blog Tour. Again, so scary. Who knows what people will really say when you ask them what they really think. But they were all so kind, patient, honest, and for the most part complimentary. (And yes, they do it for free! Amazing, amazing people! I'm so happy to have connected with them)
  • My first Book Launch Extravaganza. My family and friends basically took over Barnes & Noble. The staff members were so kind! I loved working with them. It was absolutely awesome. And each author event I've done since then has been a reward in itself.
Yes, it's been an amazing year. More than anything, it has been a journey worth taking. While I can't say I've loved every minute, I wouldn't trade the experience for anything. After all, a girl only has so many firsts. 

Thanks, my dears, for all you kindness, support, and love. I wouldn't have made it without you! xoxoxo

12 comments:

  1. That's an impressive list of firsts! Congrats!

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    1. Thanks, Jan! It's been a wild, wonderful ride. And has changed how I see myself. Isn't it interesting how life throws you a curve ball like that?

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  2. Fabulous list! .. High five lady ;O)

    Here's to all the firsts for 2015! X

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    1. Thanks, Kimmie! I'm already onto another adventure for 2015!

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  3. Can't wait to see what 2015 brings for you! I loved your book :)

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    1. That's so lovely to hear! I love it when people enjoy my little book. And yes, 2015 has already become a bit interesting!

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  4. My gosh, that's a whole ton of firsts! Congratulations on an awesome year!

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    1. Thanks, Heather! It was life-changing & really so fun! Thanks!

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  5. My gosh, that's a whole ton of firsts! Congratulations on an awesome year!

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  6. Happy Anniversary Doll! It's been fun to watch you make this trip! Hugs and love.

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