Yeah....what's that saying about the best laid plans?  Well, I'm afraid mine fell apart and despite much excitement, I didn't get to Orlando to see Menopause the Musical after all.

I had been fighting a flu since last Sunday and thought Tuesday evening I felt good enough to go the next morning.  I suppose I could have pushed myself, but I normally don't do that.  I usually "listen" when it's time to slow down and stay balanced.  So that's what I did.  Yeah, I was terribly disappointed to miss it but felt it more important to stay put, rest and get better.  Not to mention, I sure didn't want to pass it on to the other women.  And I'm now feeling much better and back to normal.

You probably saw on the news that Florida got hit pretty bad with rain, gusty winds, tornados, etc.  I could NOT believe the rain!  Cedar Key got six inches.  I seriously debated if we'd have to start building some arks.  Although most of the dangerous weather was just north of us, we were okay here on the island.

Despite feeling pooky, I still managed to have a very busy week doing "stuff" in this process of my book being published next spring.

I've been working on getting blurbs from other authors for the book jacket.  Kensington said they'll be getting some for me also, but for me to try as well.  So all those years of attending writers conferences, networking, etc. is beginning to pay off!  I managed to secure commitments this past week from 3 well-known authors and I'm quite thrilled about that.  I have about 5 more that I'll be contacting.

I also have given some serious consideration to hiring an independent publicist.  Yes......Kensington has a PR department and will be setting up some promotion.  However, one must be realistic.  They can only do so much.  I really want to give this book as much of a chance as possible.  I'm motivated and ready to do a lot of the footwork, but.......I need some help.  I've been in touch with a top publicist and was enthused by what they offer, etc.  I'll be signing a contract with them probably around August after we have a book cover.  They'll be instrumental in setting up book tours, media, contacting book sellers, etc. for me.  And all of that leaves me more precious time to keep writing.

I'm also in the process of getting a graphic designer to revamp my author website.  All of the above is very time-comsuming, but don't think I'm complaining.  I'm feeling very blessed to finally have the opportunity to get all these things in motion.

A lot of my week was also spent doing what I love so much.........writing.  I've managed to now complete 113 pages of Book #2 for a first draft.  The story is moving along well and I'm pleased with it.

I've also touched base with some other authors, one of which is also on board with Kensington.  And I'll be talking more about her and others on future blog entries.  But I have to say, all of them have been so kind giving me advice, explaining the publishing process to me a little bit better.  And I'm really proud to be connected with such talented and kind women.

That's it for this time.  I have a busy week ahead with some community events squeezed into my writing chores.  I hope all is well with you and I'll see you here next time when I'll answer a commenter question about "Who would you wish to play Sydney in a movie?"