November 6, 2008

What a Year!

2008 has been an unprecedented year so far, filled with ups and downs.

1. On a personal note, my father-in-law, Jake, passed away early in the year. His absence still haunts me. In other difficult news, a close friend was diagnosed with breast cancer and is undergoing treatment. Another dear friend, Cary, lost her six-year struggle with ovarian cancer. It's been hard on her husband, Rey, and 16-year-old daughter.

2. This sad backdrop contrasts sharply with what's happened professionally. My first novel came out this past February, only two weeks after my father-in-law's passing. I was grateful to celebrate with friends and family. And my second humorous novel sold to the talented and lovely Stephanie Lane Elliott at Delacorte Press. I also had the joy of attending the ALA this past January and sitting in the audience as the Newbery Medal and others were announced.

3. On a local level, the Philadelphia Phillies won the World Series! Even though we live in South Florida, we're a Philly Phamily at heart and couldn't have been happier about this much-anticipated win. Well, we'd have been happier if Grandpop Jake were still around to share in the celebration.

4. On a more global level, the Olympics were absolutely inspiring. Who couldn't be moved by seeing people from all over the world giving their absolute best?

5. And on a personal, professional, local and global level, I'm excited that after this historic campaign and election, we have a new president and can move forward.

As this year draws to a close, I'm delighted to wake each day with loving family and friends and a shared sense of purpose, community and hope.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hi Philly Phriend!

Hooray for all the good things 2008 brought--especially the new book contract and our new President Elect.

P.S. There's still time left for a 2008 Jackpot.

Alison Ashley Formento said...

I saw your posting on Verlas.
What an inspiring blog post. Thanks for sharing your conference experiences, not to mention your personal highs and lows. Congrats especially on selling your second novel.

Wild About Words said...

Thanks, Sylvia and Alison! Brighter days ahead for all!

Anonymous said...

Second novel sold? This little gold nugget is slightly hidden here, I'd be screaming! Congratulations, can't wait to get a copy (or three).

Paul

Wild About Words said...

Thanks, Paul,
I think you've single-handedly increased my sales for As If Being . . .
I'll be sure to let you know when the second one is released.
All best,
Donna