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.
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!
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So happy for you! You are an encouragement to those of us who are struggling with our own dreams.
I'm thrilled for you, Stacy! I love that picture!
Thanks for sharing your story. You're an inspiration.
So very happy for you, Stacy! I'm looking forward to reading your book!!
Hooray! I know exactly how you feel (it was 14 years for me), and it's a wonderful feeling! Congratulations and virtual hugs!
Terri – I'm excited for all that you're doing to reach your dream. Keep at it – it will happen!
Jessica – That picture's from a trip we went on with my husband to Boston. The main thing I wanted to do while out there was see the Atlantic Ocean. 🙂 Which we did!
Loree – Thanks! I feel blessed to have met such great fellow writers on this journey.
Angie – Some moments, it still just feels surreal. 🙂
Congratulations! I'm so happy for you!
Yay for your book! I'm so glad things turned around…which is slightly selfish on my part because it meant I got to read your book! 🙂
Wow, I got tears in my eyes reading this, Stacy. I love how God is the ultimate Author of our lives…Your journey is proof of that.
Jenilyn – Thanks for stopping by!
Melissa – LOL! I'm glad things turned around too. 🙂
Sarah – Beautifully put – God is the Author of our lives!
What a beautiful post Stacy. ((hugs))
I loved reading about your journey, and especially your testimony that while you couldn't see your path for all the thorns and briars, God could and He'd been leading you all along.
I'm so happy that you are finally HERE! Dream accomplished!
So now what's your NEXT big dream?
Congrats! I'm so happy for you. =)
Popping over from Elana's to say Hi! The book sounds terrific – I hope you have lots of success 🙂
Ali – Great question – what's my next big dream! Besides continuing to publish books, I'm not sure. I'm going to have to ponder on that one. 🙂
E. Arroyo – Thanks for the well wishes!
Jemi – Don't you just love Elana's blog? 🙂
Your news is so exciting and encouraging! Dreams really do come true. Thanks for reminding me of that!
I can't wait to read your new book!
Ink in the Book – Thanks! It's amazing what God has in store for us, even when we can't see it ourselves.