I
know what you’re thinking. How can you take a train from Unpubbed Island?
Think
Polar Express. This train carries both unpubbed and pubbed. Its first stop—Seekerville.
We all need to get on board.
Yes,
there’s no free ride. Do you have your ticket? That ticket is desire. Wanting to
be published badly enough that you’ll make changes in your life, in yourself,
in your writing. Study the market, the craft. Finish the book. Enter the contest.
Submit and submit some more. If you don’t have the ticket, somewhere along the
line you’ll topple from the train.
This train circles our tree. Not a train you want to board. |
Before
we examine the train, let's look at the tracks—that path that’s in place to
reach traditional publishers via contests, submissions and conferences. Indie
publication may be the route you plan to go, but be sure the story is ready. You may
need to hire an editor, have the manuscript formatted and a cover designed. Don’t be derailed by releasing
anything less than a top notch book free of errors. After all, your name will be on the cover.
You’re the Engineer of your train. No one can make you climb aboard but you. You may need to switch tracks (different genre perhaps), see the places to slow down (make sure that manuscript is as ready as you can make it before submitting), and the places to go full speed ahead (if you never send it, you’ll never attain your goal.).
Engine—this is a steam
engine, the “I think I can, I think I can” Little Toot variety. One that never
gives up no matter how steep the hill, no matter how daunting the odds. Think
of the engine’s wheels pumping, getting up steam. This engine doesn't coast, doesn't quit. This engine will get you to your destination.
Coal Car—this is what powers
the engine. It’s a gritty place, not for the
faint of heart. I love Anne
Lamott’s bird by bird. In her book,
she tells about her brother waiting until the night before a report on birds
was due, totally overwhelmed by the task. Her father put an arm around his
son’s shoulder and said, “Bird by bird, buddy. Just take it bird by bird.”
Makes sense. Start with a paragraph, a sentence. In other words, be the fireman and shovel that coal if you plan to go anywhere. That’s
hard work that requires planting your behind in a chair. Set up a writing schedule,
make a realistic daily goal and stick to it, even if it’s only a paragraph. If
you’re doing this, but you’re getting closer, then try something different with your writing. Get on fire. It’s the only
way to move that engine down the track.
Dining Car—I’m not totally talking
chocolate here, but it helps. Feed your soul with things that energize you. Take
time each day to do something you enjoy. This will revitalize you. Feed your
brain positive thoughts. Expect good things to happen. Find ways to make
writing more fun. Perhaps write or edit in a café or outside on a pretty day.
Passenger Car—we’re not on this
train alone. No one understands a writer like another writer. Meet with other
writers. Keep in touch by e-mail. Establish relationships so that on the dark
days, someone will understand and care. If you don’t write well in a
vacuum, find a critique partner or group. Be a mentor to someone with
less experience. Judge contests. You’ll benefit from teaching and helping
others along the way. Compete only with yourself. Comparing yourself to others
is defeating and pointless. Aren't we thankful God doesn't do compare us to others?
Freight Car—the place you stow
the equipment for the journey to publication. Suggestions for what to take with
you: Fiction—to read and study, “How To” books/magazines/tapes, movies to watch. All these will help hone your craft. Don’t forget to pack pencils, pens, paper, computer, printer,
AlphaSmart—whatever keeps you writing. Keep paper/pens on the nightstand and in
the car. Listen to tapes while you get ready or drive. Edit hard copy while waiting
for appointments. Be productive whenever you can. Don’t
waste that precious commodity, time.
Baggage Car—not all the stuff you’re
lugging around is good for you. Toss anything that’s dragging you down and
refuse to put it on the train. Don’t listen to the negative voice in your head
or coming out of others’ mouths. Kick time wasters out the door. Don’t let
others sabotage your goal. We want to be there for those who need us, but we
can’t let them gobble up our time.
Caboose—I don’t know about
you but I miss that red car at the end of the train. My train is steam powered
so the caboose still exists and with good
reason. Here’s where the men slept,
ate, relaxed. The caboose represents the balance we need in our lives. Allot
time in your twenty-four hours for taking care of your spiritual, emotional,
and physical well being. Spend time with God. Take a walk. All work and no play
leads to burnout.
As
I mentioned, you’re the Engineer on
this train. If you’re teachable, work hard and don’t give up, then I believe you’ll
get published or be multi-published. Now here’s the disclaimer: I took a train a few years back and
learned that everyone on that train from the engineer on down to the lowest man
is under the authority of the Conductor.
You guessed it. The Conductor is God. Remember the journey itself is
important—not just the destination. God may have lessons He wants you to learn
along the way. Enjoy it. Write because you love it and don’t let your quest
suck the joy out of your gift.
In bird
by bird, Lamott says: “I look into my students’ faces and they look
solemnly back at me.
“So why does our writing matter again?” they
asked.
Because of the spirit, I say. Because of the
heart. Writing and reading decrease our sense of isolation. They deepen and
widen and expand our sense of life: they feed the soul.”
I
don’t always take my advice, especially this time of year. If you're feeling your schedule is a lost cause, don't get discouraged. Each day dawns anew, bringing a fresh start. Do you hear the clack of the wheels over the tracks, the
haunting sound of the whistle as the train passes through the countryside? If
so, you’re on the train, doing the best you can.
If a train is too slow for you, maybe Santa will give you a lift! |
I brought egg, ham and cheese breakfast sandwiches, tomato juice, tea and coffee, along with an assortment of Christmas cutout cookies. Leave a comment for a chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card.
Janet,
ReplyDeleteI love analogies, and this one works. Good job.
I just made my end-of-the-year writing goal, so now I can ease up and spend some time on holiday preparation and then time with the offspring.
Coffee's brewing.
I tend to get derailed this time of year. For some reason I expect to be able to do everything, extra activities at church, Christmas preparations, work, writing, meeting friends for meals, and it is impossible! Seeing the words in black and white help me see that. So thanks for telling me not to get discouraged if my schedule seems a lost cause.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas!
What a fun analogy, Janet. The journey to publication requires all the elements you mentioned. While there's work involved, writing can be such fun, too. There's a real thrill when an anticipated destination is reached: a contest final, an offer of representation, a contract, a book release. Those are the whistle-worthy moments and are well worth waiting--and working--for.
ReplyDeleteGreat analogy, Janet! I love the "bird by bird" line, it's wonderful.
ReplyDeleteI'm taking your advice any time of year because I find if you fall off the tracks, it's so much harder to get back on and maintain the writing habit. So staying on track daily is my focus. And when you really love what you do, it seems more like a privilege to get up and do it!
Love the train!
Wonderful analogies Janet! This time of year tends to lead me off the tracks because of everything that is going on but it's fun getting back on the tracks after the new year with fresh ideas.
ReplyDeleteHave a blessed week!
Smiles & Blessings,
Cindy W.
wonders what carriage readers fit into?
ReplyDeleteLove the photos and the one around the tree and the analogy.
(please enter me I love amazon money).
suddenly want to watch the Polar Express except I really want to go to bed (finally sleeping again with the aid of meds after 8 nights of no sleep but still extremely exhausted)
Helen, thanks for the coffee! Huge congratulations on making your goals!! You are not only on board, you're racing down the tracks!! Have fun enjoying the festivities!
ReplyDeleteJanet
Good morning! Janet, I remember going to my grandparent's farm in Munfordville, KY and standing on the fence by the cow pasture. At the bottom of the property, were the train tracks. My brother and I would hand on that black fence with one arm and wave to the man in the caboose with the other. You'd be surprised how many times we see a man waving back to us.
ReplyDeleteI appreciate your post this morning. It went perfect with my morning devotional. Thanks so much!
Janet, thanks so much for sharing. I love the analogy. I'm a person who needs a visual image, so this is especially helpful.
ReplyDeleteWhat a perfect Christmas themed analogy, Janet! There's something about a train at Christmas time that sparks so many childhood memories.
ReplyDelete"Bird by Bird"...one of my favorite craft books and you quoted my favorite line by her father.
Janet, thanks for a fun and thought provoking post! I enjoyed the tour through the train.:-)
ReplyDeleteFun and work combined is always a good plan.
Great advice and visual image as we chug along the path of publication.
ReplyDeleteThank you JANET. I like it when the Seekers start the week off with an inspirational piece. Is that by design? I relish the nuts-and-bolts craft advice, but won't ever get to using them without pieces like today's. Yes, I am derailed and maybe set up too ambitious a goal for December. I love the shopping, baking, wrapping and decorating. It's the secular work that gets in the way, it's really busy at this time of the year. And of course our good old New England weather throws me frequent curves. But it will be all right. It's His birthday, after all.
ReplyDeleteKB
What great encouragement, Janet! Thanks for your inspiring post.
ReplyDeleteYou know, I've owned "Bird by Bird" for years and still haven't read it. I need to pull that out of my TBR pile.
How is everyone's shopping going??
KB, no, the inspirational posts aren't by design. At least not our design. But they probably are a God thing! :)
ReplyDeleteThis time of year, I get two weeks off of teaching, but we are also gearing up for next year's registration and so I must go through the registration packets, budget etc. And then there's Christmas...
ReplyDeleteBut, I think I can, I think can is nudging me and this site gives me the steam to at least try. Thanks...
I love trains, Janet! We used to travel between Chicago and Denver by train when I was a little girl. LOVED IT!
ReplyDeleteThis analogy so hits home. Brilliant. I must say I do get stuck in the dining car : ) Must spend more time in the engine!!
Lovely pics, too. Christmas time is such a time of distractions...even more so than normal. Take heart and enjoy family and traditions for a season. We'll be back in the grind before you know it.
Thanks, Janet!!
Terri, I'm with you in the distraction arena. There are so many additional responsibilities we take on to help the Christmas season be merry for all.
ReplyDeleteGod is smiling on your efforts : ) We'll all get back on the train once IT gets back on schedule. LOL!
Janet was just in touch, saying she's having trouble commenting on the blog. She'll be here as soon as she can!
ReplyDeletePraying for you Jenny! Sleep is a good thing!!
ReplyDeleteJanet, I just simply LOVE this post. You are so clever my friend to compare the writers journey to one of our favorite traditions around the tree-the train.
ReplyDeleteGreat going.
I am taking your advice to heart. smile
Hang in there, Eileen. Enjoy Christmas and try not to let stress get you down. The train will always be there. Enjoy Christmas and hope on before New Year!!
ReplyDeleteRemember, Seekerville is planning another great New Years celebration sure to get you back on track for your goals!!!!
LOL about the dining car, Audra. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks, Janet for a trip into memory which I hadn't thought about this yea son. 4 generations of Barkmans climbed aboard the Via passenger train (11 of the, the youngest was about two years old, the oldest probably around 60) and we traveled through the Rocky Mountains to Vancouver. Loved the analogy, and would love to be entered for the gift.
ReplyDeleteSuch a great analogy. The Lamott quote is so beautiful. I boarded the train long ago, got off a few times then got back on the next time through. Still on my journey but those wheels seem to be turning just a little faster. Bless you, Janet. Your encouragement is much appreciated.
ReplyDeleteGreat analogy, Janet....love it!
ReplyDeleteCount me in for the GC, please!
There are so many great books out there that I want to read...lol.
Maybe I'll win cause the "text to type in" is my birth year!!
I loved reading this post. Have a very Merry Christmas!
ReplyDeleteChristmas cookies for breakfast. Does it get any better?????
ReplyDeleteGood morning, Terri! Some of us can't live in a cave. Time with family and friends is important, especially at Christmas. Hopefully you'll find an hour to work here and there in your busy schedule. But if not, no guilt allowed.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas!
Janet
Has any one here actually ever taken a train trip? I have in Europe, but not in the US. This is on my bucket list. Well done, Janito!
ReplyDeleteGood morning, Keli! Whistle worthy is a perfect way to describe celebrating our achievements. Writing is a combination of hard work that's not only fun, it's soul satisfying. We are blessed!
ReplyDeleteJanet
A great post, Janet and the analogy works! Love it! Thanks for the great spread you've brought as well!
ReplyDeleteJackie L has a new profile pix! Love it!
ReplyDeleteRuthy, your work ethic rocks!! But you also carve out time with family, church, baking... Ant tips for managing it all?
ReplyDeleteThe train used to intrigue our grandkids but they're getting older now and it's lost its charm. But not for me!
Janet
Hi Cindy W! You can get back on board in the New Year. Refreshed and raring to go!
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas!
Janet
Great analogies, Janet! Good reminders about keeping our lives in balance as we chug along to success. :)
ReplyDeleteJenny, writers love sharing seats with readers in the passenger cars. We share the love of books and need each other!
ReplyDeleteI watched The Polar Express last night. Love Tom Hanks and the movie!
Very glad to hear you're getting some sleep!
Hugs, Janet
Oooohhhh -- love this. Love trains. I get so excited just visiting a train station. Such a hub of activity. As soon as I walk through the doors I get a thrill just thinking about all the possibilities. So in your analogy, the station could represent starting a new story -- imagining all the places it will take you. And I love the idea of a train circling a Christmas tree. How cool is that?
ReplyDeleteGood morning, Jackie! Thanks for sharing your memory. I loved waving when we were stopped for trains. That rarely happens these days. And that's a good thing but I miss watching the cars clatter past.
ReplyDeleteI'm blessed to know the post fit your devotions this morning.
Janet
Good morning, Rhonda! It is fun to think of us as moving down the tracks toward our goals. Some are barreling along. Others are chugging along but we'll all make our destination if we don't give up.
ReplyDeleteJanet
Good morning, Jill! Would love to hear one of your childhood memories. My parents told me we rode trains to visit family when I was little but I don't remember those trips. Still maybe that's why I'm intrigued by them.
ReplyDeleteJanet
Morning Mary H! Isn't it fun when the words flow from our fingertips? And we bring characters to life on the page?
ReplyDeleteJanet
Hello Rose. Thanks! It's encouraging that we have each other cheering us along the rails.
ReplyDeleteJanet
awesome post and analogy today. my little guy is into trains right now, so daddy set up a train with a little town this year for Christmas.
ReplyDeleteI've been derailed of late. Need to get back on track even though I've been feeling a bit overwhelmed with the season and all the activities. I will take to heart the "bird-by-bird" quote... perhaps morph it to word-by-word or sentence-by-sentence, but still absorb the concept and implement it.
I LOVE, LOVE (to infinity and beyond) SEEKERVILLE!!!!! Your posts are always just what I need. It's definitely a God thing and I'm so glad y'all keep listening and posting.
Good morning, Kaybee! I'm not always realistic about what I can do. Add unforeseen things that must be handled and staying on track is hard. But we know why we write and the reason for the season. We are blessed!
ReplyDeleteJanet
Hi Missy! I think you'll enjoy bird by bird!
ReplyDeleteShopping is my last big task on my To Do list. I'm counting on our daughters for the ideas.
Janet
Hi Eileen! Hope you can carve out some time to write, even just a little. Whatever you do, enjoy Christmas while you're off work!
ReplyDeleteJanet
Audra, you're blessed to have those train memories. How long did the trip between Chicago and Denver take?
ReplyDeleteI lsavor every aspect of Christmas. Yesterday we attended a fabulous worship service with a real baby Jesus, even a camel. The singing was inspiring, especially the hallelujah chorus. Brought tears to my eyes.
Janet
thanks for the good wishes Audra and Janet.
ReplyDeleteI spoke to soon. today I am having another night I am just not sleeping. the meds are not working. I have dozed but just not sleeping well. I wont let it get me down but I really do need some rest.
I still have gingerbread and sugar cookies to share (and please help me eat them!) I love cooking them and want to share them wit friends etc. I am going to take some to some of the elderly people I walk past every day. They miss me when I am unable to walk that way and will say I haven't seen you are you ok.
Missy all shopping is done. (well except working out what I will have for Christmas lunch) I will be home alone.
Wonderful, wonderful post, Janet, chock-full of inspiration and encouragement! My train-loving brother-in-law would love it, too!
ReplyDeleteSorry for not making it to Seekerville over the weekend. Saturday was a full day of dress rehearsal and performance for our annual Christmas program featuring just about every choral, instrumental, and liturgical dance group in our church. So Sunday definitely had to be a day of rest because we were all exhausted!
Today is the pickleball players' holiday lunch--a first for us but lots of new friends in the group. We play at the Jewish Community Center, so not sure whether "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Hanukkah" will be the appropriate greeting.
Good morning Sandra! What traditions are special to you?
ReplyDeleteI have a pedestal lidded candy dish that I keep filled. It's old. Probably belonged to my grandparents. My mom always kept hard candy in it. I prefer Hershey Kisses. That chocolate addiction is strong. LOL
Janet
Hi Marianne! Riding a train through the Rockies sounds fabulous, especially with your extended family.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas!
Janet
Hi Cindy! Glad you're zooming down the tracks! Proof we can get off for a time and still get back on.
ReplyDeleteJanet
Morning Jackie S, I'm grinning. The number I see is five digits! Not what you saw for sure. LOL
ReplyDeleteJanet
Hi Cathy Ann! Wishing you a great Christmas!!
ReplyDeleteJanet
ManO and I so approve this post since we are big train fans. And I love how you had every car having a purpose!
ReplyDeleteAll aboard!
Peace, Julie
Tina, iced cutouts are great with piping hot coffee! Yum!!
ReplyDeleteJanet
Love this article! Funny, my niece gave me the book you mentioned by Anne Lamott for Christmas last year, and it's been sitting on the shelf since. I'm going to pull it out now, and enjoy.
ReplyDeleteTina, we've taken a short ride to our state fair. But except for long rides I took as a tot that I can't remember, I haven't. But I want to! Well, there was the cog train we took up Pikes Peak. Isn't there a train in southern CO for tourists to ride?
ReplyDeleteJanet
Hi piper! You're so welcome! Are you ready for Christmas?
ReplyDeleteJanet
Jennifer, balance is important. Finding what works is the trick. We're all unique.
ReplyDeleteJanet
Kav, trains trigger my imagination too! Just hearing the whistle makes me wonder where passengers are headed but the sad truth is that most trains in my area are freight.
ReplyDeleteJanet
Morning DebH! Do not be discouraged. That only weighs us down. We have grace here in Seekerville. Word by word can lead to several, maybe even a page or two.
ReplyDeleteI'm impressed you can write at all with a small child. Enjoy him and Christmas! Know he's enjoying the train and village!
Janet
Jenny, you are so sweet to share the gingerbread and sugar cookies with us and with your elderly neighbors! You're a blessing.
ReplyDeleteBummed you can't sleep. Perhaps other meds you are taking are interfering. I know steroids have that effect.
Janet
Hi Myra! No wonder you missed the Weekend Edition. You gave joy to everyone who came to services. Rest up and enjoy thr luncheon with new friends!
ReplyDeleteJanet
Hi Peaceful Julie. How do you and ManO get your train fix? I've seen a wonderful display in Chicago. Do you have trains displayed at home? Have you taken a trip?
ReplyDeleteJanet
Hello Janet! Hope you are inspired by the book as much as i am!
ReplyDeleteJanet
Great post, Jan. I need to remember to spend more time in the dining car—doing things that nurture my soul, my spirit. This time of year is hard, but I'm working on it. Watching Christmas movies while I fill out Christmas letters and wrap presents is one enjoyment for me, even though it takes a little longer to complete the tasks.
ReplyDeleteI'm looking forward to hitting the tracks hard after Christmas, Till then? I'm trying to be intentional about not getting stressed out and over-tired during the season. :)
Great post!
Thank you for the post Jan. I love the themed photos and holiday colors. I'm printing many copies for my student readers to review my novel (hopefully very final draft) over Christmas break. Thanks for the encouragement to keep us going!
ReplyDeleteI miss the pretty train rides in Europe. I spent two summers there studying abroad and it was a thrill. Favorite class: CS Lewis.
I like your thought, Jeanne, about not getting stressed out. Humbling to write about it, helps keep me in check, too!
Hi Jeanne T! I try to watch Christmas movies in the evening. Wrapping presents as I do is a great idea.
ReplyDeleteGlad you plan to take care of you during December. Then you'll be raring to go in January.
Janet
Hello Elizabeth, I'm sure your students are excited to give their feedback on your novel.
ReplyDeleteHow thrilling it must have been to study abroad! What was the favorite place you visited?
Janet
I brought white chili and spinach salad for lunch.
ReplyDeleteJanet
Janet, I love "Bird by Bird"! How fun to see it quoted. It's one of those books I return to because each time something new speaks to me.
ReplyDeleteSuch a good analogy, an image that's easy to grasp. And such good advice, especially the part about not going around and around like the train under your tree :-)
Thanks!
Nancy C
Janet,
ReplyDeleteYour blog posts are always so delightful. Love your train analogy. Perfect, especially at this time of year.
Thanks for explaining Anne Lamotte's "Bird by Bird" title. Evidently, I need to read the book. :)
I must admit that Christmas prep cuts into my writing time in December. Luckily, I don't have anything due this month. Hoping the holiday rush will ease by the end of the week. But with more commitments scheduled next Monday and Tuesday, I'll probably be scrambling right up to Christmas Eve.
Praying peace and joy over all!
Wonderful analogy, Janet. When's the book coming out? I can't be the only one who thinks this would make a nice writing craft book? =) I barely remember riding on a *real* train ... there just aren't a lot in my area. Not counting the little shopping mall Christmas trains, LOL.
ReplyDeleteHi Janet,
ReplyDeleteGood analogy. I went with the cub scouts once on a train ride called the shortline because back in the day it ran only from one town to another. What I remember is the way the floor vibrated and the sections separating the cars were outside. I was a nervous wreck worrying that one of those boys would fall off.
What an encouraging post for writers! Love the analogy- perfect for the holidays :) Thank you for the giveaway, please include my name!
ReplyDeleteJanet, I loved this analogy. My house sits about a 1/4 mi from a train track (freight-no passenger trains pass by). I love hearing the whistle as it comes through. This past summer I took a 3-week road trip with a close friend. I didn't realize I missed hearing the train until I got back home and heard it coming down the track.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas everyone!
Hi Nancy C! You've encouraged me to reread bird by bird. Thanks! And thanks for your kind words.
ReplyDeleteJanet
Debby, thanks for your sweet words.
ReplyDeleteI'm guessing we all can use your prayers for peace and joy.
Think you'll enjoy the book.
Janet
The Artist Librarian, sweet of you to say but I don't think there's enough here for a craft book but maybe one day an article.
ReplyDeleteSnickering at the image of all of us boarding the mall train. We'd probably scare the little kids. They'd no doubt be calling security.
Janet
Elaine, I'm guessing you didn't let the Cub Scouts out of your sight. You might not want to watch The Polar Express! LOL
ReplyDeleteJanet
Thanks Heidi! Trains and Christmas just seem to go together. You're in the drawing.
ReplyDeleteJanet
Hi Pat W, you were homesick for the train and didn't know it.
ReplyDeleteWhen we were first married we rented an upstairs apartment over an old house. Behind it was an elevated train. Around 2:00 AM the cars were coupled. The first time we heard them bang together we were scared silly. Wasn't long before we didn't hear it at all. :-)
Janet
Anyone have tips for handling everything at Christmas? Do you assign jobs? Cut out things?
ReplyDeleteI buy cookies from a church cookie walk. I write one letter and print copies. Need to put labels in the computer but haven't taken the time.
Janet
The train makes it so easy to understand. Sometimes I still have to remind myself that I am an Engineer and to get on that train! 2015 is my year! The breakfast sandwiches are yummy even though it's dinner time here :)
ReplyDeleteWonderful analogy and very encouraging. I need to get on the train with my book and the start of the year coming up is the perfect time.
ReplyDeletePlease enter me for the gift card!
This is such a beautiful comparison, Janet!
ReplyDeleteThank you for these timely reminders! The balance one really hit home with me. I feel like I wobble between overkill/burnout and and laziness/guilt. I was getting 2500-3000 words a day last week, now I do good to get 1000. I wanted so badly to get this MS finished by Jan. 1, and maybe I still have a chance to, but I don't want to completely ignore my family, LOL!
I feel lazy saying it, but I may lower my expectations until after Christmas and just be proud if I manage 1K a day.
Thanks so much for this post! I needed it!
This engineer feeds her soul with dark Dove chocolate!
ReplyDeleteJanet, thank you so much for this inspirational post with such a great analogy. It's perfect timing as I rev myself up for looking forward to next year. As an unpubbed writer, I read your advice and nodded as I scrolled down and kept reading. Loved the advice and the motivational push. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteJanet, what a perfect analogy! I loved how you gave each car on the train with a perfect label for the writing life.
ReplyDeleteAnd it was even more adorable that you were able to use the train circling your tree.
Brava!!!! :)
Thanks Pam! My dh enjoys the train. I gave it to him one year for Christmas.
ReplyDeleteJanet
Hi Becky! Good for you! Wishing you all the best in 2015!
ReplyDeleteNo Engineer-less trains allowed. :-)
Janet
Hi Sandy, January is usually quieter so easier to get more time to write.
ReplyDeleteYou're entered!
Janet
Hi Natalie, you're to be commended for getting 1k written a day in December. Proud of you!! Enjoy Christmas before your family comes looking for you! LOL
ReplyDeleteJanet
Cara, you know how to get my attention! Dark or milk chocolate? Not that it matters. :-)
ReplyDeleteJanet
Tanya, thanks! Glad the post resonated with you!
ReplyDeleteJanet
Natalie, I think 1k is great. And it's good to be realistic as we set our goals.
ReplyDeleteJANET!!! I am soooo sorry I'm late, but WOW, was this worth the wait, my friend!!
ReplyDeleteLOVE, LOVE, LOVE this post and the train analogy! You nailed every single car with a perfect correlation, girl, and absolutely one of the best writing analogies I've ever seen.
And OH MY GOODNESS!! I've always heard about Anne Lamont's book, Bird by Bird, but I never knew where the title came from, so thanks for filling me in. :)
Hugs!!
Julie
Hi Janet - A wonderfully clever post for Christmas. Since nice insight!
ReplyDeleteAnne Lamont has a unique way of explaining her writing experience and Bird by Bird is one of my favorite writing books.
Right now I'm just trying to keep the train on the track. Lots of late nights and keeping at it. It's very much bird by bird - page by page.
I love The Polar Express. I've done a lot of work in the last two months on my writing journey, writing one novella and one short story.
ReplyDeleteNow I need to get more coal. I can do that by reading.
Hi Janet,
ReplyDeleteThanks for your encouraging post today, it was just what I needed to hear. Looking back three years since I began to write I see that I have several of your train cars in place and will continue to push on.
Take care and thanks again. You are a gift of encouragement to many!
Janet,
ReplyDeleteWhat a great analogy and informative and encouraging post!
Thanks!
Great analogy!! We watch the "Polar Express" a lot during Christmas. I'll print this one off and add to my collection. Merry Christmas!
ReplyDeleteHi Julie! Never too late to arrive in Seekerville! Smiling that you liked the post and now understand Lamott's title.
ReplyDeleteJanet
Hi Lyndee. I'm so proud of you for persevering during the busy days of December!! And still taking time to stop by Seekerville. You rock!
ReplyDeleteJanet
Hi Walt! I love the movie too! And I'm impressed with your accomplishments.
ReplyDeleteYou nailed where to find that coal. Excellent! Wish I'd thought of it. :-)
Janet
Hi Mark, thank you for your kind words of encouragement!
ReplyDeleteCongrats on having cars in place and pushing on!
Janet
Hi Edwina. Thank you! And thank you for stopping in. I so appreciate that you took the time.
ReplyDeleteHugs, Janet
Hi Kelly! Thanks.
ReplyDeleteThe odd thing to me is our older grandchildren don't care about watching The Polar Express. Yet I love it! Can't figure that out.
Merry Christmas!
Janet
Hi Janet - thanks for this great post! Lots of things I needed to be reminded of - especially today when I feel my publication train is drifting backward a bit. The analogy was spot on!
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Kelly
Hi Kelly. That drifting backwards can happen in December, but we get to begin anew in January, recharged and ready to fuel that train.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas!
Janet
Great post! I frequently need reminding that I just have to keep going, taking one thing at a time. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteLoved your post with its analogies. Much for me to apply here. I set small writing goals for Nov. and Dec. and have met them. This is rewarding in itself no matter what the outcome of my efforts. Have a blessed Christmas season, Janet.
ReplyDeleteHi Elizabeth. That's so true in writing and in life. Thanks for stopping in!
ReplyDeleteJanet
Hi Pat Jeanne. Small goals are very sensible during the holidays. You can feel proud of yourself!
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas!
Janet
Enjoyed your analogy... Not too busy this Christmas only 4 adult children coming for dinner :)
ReplyDeleteplease enter me ...
dkstevensne AT outlook DotCOm
Hi Deanna,
ReplyDeleteSounds like you'll have a lovely Christmas with your adult children.
You're entered.
Merry Christmas!
Janet
I think my problem is I'm an engineer with more than one train, going in similar directions with a similar process, yet not on the same line (i.e. writing vs painting). Would that I could figure a way to couple them together . . .
ReplyDeleteHi Janet,
ReplyDeleteInteresting post with the various pictures for illustration. And, I like that desire is the track!
Janet
Hi Rachel, perhaps illustrating a children's book would bring both trains together. But, even if that's not your goal, having such talent is a blessing.
ReplyDeleteI like to draw with colored pencil and create stamped cards. I do those things for relaxation. But writing books is my goal.
Janet
Hi Janet. Thanks! We need to fuel our dreams so that design doesn't ebb.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas!
Janet