A Dream Come True

Eight years ago this summer, when my oldest son was just a couple of months old, I began writing my first book. This was my first serious attempt to accomplish a goal I'd written in my journal at the age of 11 - write and publish a book.

(Me and my son by the Atlantic Ocean - Sept 2004)

I wrote during naptime, went to my first writers' conference and finished my book. I wrote another book (which became Lady Outlaw). I had another son and wrote another book. I lost a baby girl at 20 weeks gestation, then later had my second daughter - all while reaching for this dream.

Three times I had a manuscript with a publisher - and all three times I received a "no." I queried most of  last year and racked up more rejections.

This wasn't the quick jump to publication I might have envisioned early on.

The end of last summer, I hit a real low. I knew this was what I was supposed to be doing, but it wasn't happening like I'd hoped or thought.

If I could have only seen what would happen four months later - an acceptance of publication from Harlequin and signing with my agent. I couldn't see it, but Someone could. Through all the struggle and rejection, the Lord was right with me. He knew it would be eight years of work and growth and triumph and failure. But He knew that it was exactly what my journey needed to be - for me. 

Today I feel an abundance of gratitude to Him, to my family and to all the friends and family who've helped with fulfilling this dream in any way. Thank YOU!

Who's been the biggest help in reaching for your dreams & goals? What is the biggest stumbling block to fulfilling our dreams & goals?

*Today my good friend and critique partner Elana Johnson is giving away 3 copies of Lady Outlaw on her blog!

*And check back here on Friday - I'll have pictures from my Western-themed launch party happening tomorrow night!