happy thanksgiving!

This year I implemented this fabulous Thanksgiving tree idea. The kids have had a lot of fun sticking on leaves, and I’m happy that they’re focusing on giving thanks for all the many blessings that have been poured out on us.

I am fortunate beyond reckoning. Since it would take far too long to enumerate all the things I’m grateful for, I want to focus on my many writing-related blessings.

I’m grateful for my husband, David, who let me stay home and write while he delivered pizzas for a living back when we were first married. I’m grateful for his continued support, and for his invaluable help in building my crazy worlds.

I’m grateful for my three children, who bring light and laughter to my house, and who have trained me to write in frenetic 10-minute segments. Plus, they keep me from wallowing in my emotions and being all self-absorbed.

I’m grateful for my friend and crit partner, Jo Anderton, who has stuck with me through story after story. I’m grateful for her incisive criticism and encouragement. Couldn’t have asked for a better beta reader.

I’m grateful for all the writers, blogs, and communities who have taught me so much about the craft and business of the profession. These include–but are not limited to–the Online Writing Workshop, Holly Lisle’s articles and writing courses, and the bloggers on my blogroll on the right (which needs much updating!). Thanks to all those hardworking professionals who take the time to inform newer writers.

I’m grateful for all the acceptances and rejections I’ve gotten along the way, and how each of those have been a milestone on this journey.

I’m grateful for all of you who read and comment on my blog–Prue, Megan, Deb, Kirsten, Tia, Tammy, and anyone else I’ve forgotten in my old age.

Happy Thanksgiving to all who celebrate.