Ten writers for children. All with something to say.

1/8/10

Finding a Balance Between Writing and Writerly Business

I'm starting 2010 a bit sad to have 2009 (the debut year for my first "solo" novel) already behind me and a bit overwhelmed with my new responsibilities as Regional Advisor for the MD/DE/WV chapter of SCBWI. Although the position involves "writerly" tasks, including working closely with other writers, editors, and agents, it also threatens to steal valuable time away from my own personal writing life.

I hereby resolve to find a good balance between writing and writerly business. Like David, I will concentrate on things that I do have control over, such as finishing a first draft of my current work-in-progress, so I can get to the true meat of writing--revision. Like Christy, I will also concentrate on finding some poetry in my life--celebrating those little joys and often overlooked details by putting them down on paper in some form. I would love to say I have an adventure as exciting as Carmen's journey back into Picasso's life, but who knows what adventures the year may hold...

Here's to a New Year rich with writing opportunities!

5 comments:

Lauren said...

Yes, Edie, who knows what adventures the year may hold for you. And as writers, who knows what adventures we may experience through our writing-- where it might take us. Finishing a first draft is certainly an adventure, so I wish you the best with that this new year. I also wish you joy in bringing together such a rich community with the MD/DE/WV SCBWI-- Have fun with it and delegate!

Christy said...

I empathize with the let-down following the excitement associated with publication of our debut books. I for one, am glad though of your new position. I can't wait to meet you at the SCBWI conference you organized

Edie Hemingway said...

Thank you, Lauren and Christy! It's the fellowship of other writers and illustrators like this wonderful group of potatoes that keeps me moving forward.

Mark said...

Finding a balance is always a challenge, even more so when you take on a role such as Regional Advisor for SCBWI. I second Lauren's notion: delegate!!

David LaRochelle said...

Hooray for people like you, Edie, who are willing to take on positions such as regional SCBWI advisor. Without volunteers like yourself, there is no SCBWI community. I hope that you find the position to be as rewarding to you as it will most certainly be to all the other writers you'll be helping in your region.