Monday, August 10, 2009

Inspiration v. Aspiration

I’m back. Arrived home late last night to a massive, low-slung moon and a clear sky full of stars. I’ve been away for almost two weeks; long enough to miss the summer scent of Oregon, miss seeing the mountains we’re tucked below, miss the soft cheeks of my kids.

The conference was exhausting but crucial. In years past I’ve always focused on the “craft” sessions, taking away loads of inspiration for writing. This year I attended the ProTrack (sessions for authors who are published or in the process of getting published) and the focus was different—it was all about the selling and marketing of a book. So instead of leaving inspired, I left with lists of things I need to do to have my books succeed. The list is long.

But today I am going to enjoy being home. I won’t think about niche markets or Bookscan or whether B&N will like my covers. Maybe we’ll go to the lake or the park or the ice cream shop. Maybe we’ll barbeque and have a picnic under the big Sweetgum tree that shades our patio.

Here, the possibilities for inspiration are endless.

7 comments:

Robin Mellom said...

Aww, what a great post. Just hearing Sweetgum tree makes me relax....
:-)
Wish I could've been there with you! Next year, k!?

Hugs,
R

nanmarino said...

What a lovely post. I had to google sweetgum tree. It says they grow here in the northeast, but not sure they're common on Long Island or here in New Jersey.

Tyler said...

Yes, I think some relaxation is definitely in order.

It was great seeing you again, Christy!

Shelli (srjohannes) said...

good seeing you - keep me up to date on everything :)

Jennie Englund said...

It looks like you had a fantastic time!

Can't wait to see what you do with all the tips, you powerhouse, you!

JESSJORDAN said...

You liked coming home? See, that makes one of us. I stepped out of the airport in Florida and thought ... "Ugh. I'm sticky already."

Darn Florida humidity.

Sorry I missed you at the conference!

Kimberly Derting said...

It was so much fun meeting you (again, I suppose)!! Your post was beautiful.