Now that the holidays are safely behind me, I'm tip toeing into the new year. My original intention had been to dive right in and embrace the freshness but I didn't. Why? Changes in life can slow and should slow you down as to take the time to evaluate them.
I'm settled in my new home, downsizing takes nerves of steel. I hated parting with all my unnecessary possessions but now, I'm loving the simplicity. That simplicity has fired up my muse again and the stories are starting to simmer.
I've finished the first round of edits for Her McRaidy Chieftain due out on April 3, 2010. I have an incredible editor from Eternal Press and I got a peak at my cover. When I first opened it, my breath caught in my chest and "Oh my God, it's perfect" gushed out. There in all its glory was my name. Em Epe and the title of my the novella I had lovingly crafted. I'll continue to focus on my release but am starting back on self edits of my series, The McRaidy Men to offer for submission.
On a personal note, April 3 is not only my release date but it's the birthday of my Grandmother. A woman who I still ache to call each and every day. A beautiful woman who taught me what it is to be a woman of strength, character and love and....to swear like a sailor:). Of course not everyone wants to saint Grammy, but in my heart, she is my personal saint and guardian. It feels as though I just kissed her cheek yesterday, felt her slap by butt and clearly say "I love you". Its been almost 19 years since she left me but I still love her and live by her words and guidance. More than a grandmother, she gave me motherly love without restriction, conditions or expectations. She gave me the sense that I was her favorite and that is a feeling that every person should know. That's why I try to make every person in my life feel as though they are MY favorite, because they are.
On the day before Valentine's Day, I'm reflecting on all the people I love in my life, all the stories of love I've read and all the moments I love. Take the day yourself, and give yourself a gift of love. It feels spectacular.
I'm off now to work on Gus McRaidy, a man's man that is the patriarch of The McRaidy Men. I'll share more of him another time and will keep all updated on my release of Her McRaidy Chieftain from Eternal Press.
I love you best!
Em