Me, signing books at my launch party, January 2012.
Yesterday was the one year anniversary of my first novel’s debut. Having a book release on New Year’s day is certainly one way to start the year off with a bang! What followed was a whirlwind tour of blog interviews, guest posts, author visits, conference appearances, and celebrating what it took me so long to achieve. This was followed by the inclusion of one of my poems in Nasty Bugs, and more recently, a contract for a second Boy Project Book! Hats off to 2012!
2012 also turned out to be a great year for my family. (Okay, here is where I admit that I just typed and deleted variations of the same sentence about 15 times. I can’t find words to describe how tough 2011 was, so suffice it to say that we celebrated many blessings in 2012 and are kind of sad to say goodbye to a much needed good year.)
And of course, this blog was born in 2012. Interviewing so many strong, smart women, and researching famous females to quote has made me stronger… and hopefully smarter too. Thank you, thank you, for following us as we change, grow, and celebrate the achievements of some amazing people.
Like all years, 2012 also brought its share of sadness. The week before Christmas I lost one of my closest friends to cancer. Her last few weeks were very difficult and I was lucky to be able to spend quality time with her. I am so thankful that I had that chance. But I didn’t feel much like writing, or blogging, during these weeks. It seems like when your days are heavy with sadness, the pen weighs a ton in your hand.
Today, I stumbled across a Chinese proverb that inspired me to pick up the pen again. Here it is:
You cannot prevent the birds of sorrow from flying over your head, but you can prevent them from building nests in your hair.
(For those of you who have just seen The Hobbit, you probably have a ready mental image of those last five words.)
So today I will shake out my hair and start writing again. I have a book to finish, nerdy chicks to interview, children to encourage, and, of course, a house to clean. Even the latter is a blessing. I look forward to sharing all that 2013 brings with you! May the birds of sorrow spend most of their time flying over open land.
Happy New Year!
And 2012 proved to be a much better year for us than 2013!
Nerdy Chicks Rule 
Happy New Year!
I’m sorry to hear about your friend. I also lost a friend to cancer a few years ago, the anniversary is coming up this month. I try to focus on her influence, how many lives she changed with her missionary work and dedication to kids. But it’s tough, too.
Here’s to a great 2013 🙂
Thanks Stephanie. I definitely focus on what a positive influence she was. And what an inspiration. I hope your year is great too!
happy new year! and good luck on new book! i will definately buy it!:)
Thank you Haley. Happy New Year to you too! And thanks for the congrats!
Kami, you and your blog have been an inspiration to me this year. I love your ongoing celebration of nerdy chicks and their accomplishments, and Kara McAllister made me start thinking of putting YA aside for awhile and working on a middle-grade novel, which I’ve been happily doing for the last few months. I’m sorry for your loss.
Susan, thanks so much for this. I’m so glad it inspired you! I hope to see your MG novel on the shelf soon. Your condolences are much appreciated. Take Care!