Entry 45: Spreading my Wings

I’ve never been good about keeping a journal. It all boils down to consistency. There are days when I skip making an entry. Life can crowd out the time I need to write down my thoughts about a day’s events. I’ve also been reluctant to pose as an expert on the writing process. If I knew anything of value about writing, my work would already be in print. I went out on a skinny limb of a tall in 2022 when I shared my 365 days of thankfulness. The exercise forced me to put myself out there with my soft belly exposed. Thank you for joining me on my journey in the written word. Therefore, I plan to keep a journal in 2023 to document my progress. I will call Entry 45: Spreading my Wings.

Note: I consider editing an important part of the writing process. Editing is where all the artistry happens.

My morning writing before I started Entry 45: Spreading my Wings.

I am still learning to spread my wings as a writer. A couple of years ago, I spent months sending out query letters. I used the scatter gun method. The idea of sending out emails to every agent I heard about seemed like a good plan at the time. What I didn’t realize is that the query route would never work. Several reasons make Saving the Henhouse an impossible choice for a literary agent.

1. The story deals with older women. Their day job is running a flower shop, and they are bounty hunters in their spare time. It’s like chick lit for old hens. This story would be a hard sell for traditional publishers to be interested in right now.
2. My characters live in Indiana, a fly-over country. They don’t have big enough lives to attract a New York City publisher.
3. I could query for years and never get anyone interested. Then, once the work was sold, it would take years for the book to appear in print. I am an old lady, and I am running out of time.

The advantages of traditional publishing

1. It would give me bragging rights to say I had managed against all odds to land an agent.
2. I might sell more books if a publishing company got behind my books.

The book I am currently reading right now and Entry 45: Spreading my Wings

I finished Alexander McCall Smith’s The Careful Use of Compliments today. Brother Fox makes a cameo appearance in the last pages. Isabel uncovers the mystery surrounding the painter and the picture she eventually purchases. I don’t want to give the ending away. Smith did a great job with his subtle storytelling. Cat seems to be over her anger at Isabel. I enjoyed this final book I purchased at a used bookstore, but I am unsure if I will buy the other books in the series. I am moving on to Anna Karenina.

What I’m listening to right now and Entry 45: Spreading my Wings

I pulled Counting Crows’ This Desert Life out to listen to this morning because I enjoy listening to them when I am in an uncertain mood. I like the way the songs tell stories. This group has a way of painting pictures with words and music.

The thing I am most thankful for at this moment.

I am thankful the granddaughter figured out she left her backpack here before we closed the door and relaxed for the evening. We have enjoyed two days of leaving the door open and allowing in the sunshine. I am grateful we weren’t in the middle of eating dinner when the knock came at the door.

This old lady says

There are some days when it is hard to be thankful for things. That’s when you must search for the small things to express gratitude and make it an outward expression. Remember, thankfulness is a choice.

Who is Molly Shea?

Molly Shea is an accomplished fictional short story writer from Indiana who writes short stories and novels about a fictional town called Tecumseh.  To read more of her short stories and adventures, click here.

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