I Decided to Wait for Joy- Here’s What Happened

In January, I told you about my plan for the year: 2018 Resolved: I will live with a sense of enthusiasm, optimism and expectancy.

I resolved to be more open to what God gives me and I challenged myself to welcome activities that bring me joy. Why did I stop expecting that things should happen my way. Why did I change from approaching life like an Amazon order? Why shouldn’t I look at my choices, one-click to buy what I wanted and then wait for my package to be delivered in two days?

Here’s why. Why should I limit myself to just what I could imagine and then demand that it happen? Shouldn’t I be be open to so much more? Besides, I’m not in charge.

I have been living expectantly for the past few months. I’ve been keeping to my resolution.

I also promised that I would update you, my friends.

The arrival of the hope of new life that Spring and Easter proclaim seems like a good time for me to review what’s come my way so far this year. Here’s what been happening:

An idea came to me! Why not have my three books in my The Golden Age of Charli series released as an ebook box set? I’m looking in to it now. What do you think of this idea? I will keep you posted.

Two special books were mailed to me. I was not expecting to receive books- but look what happened! First, I received Collecting Conversations by author Sam. She sent me the sweetest DM on Twitter about her new release. Her book is one of the most special ideas that I’ve seen- simple in scope but powerful in impact! Just a lovely collection. I will be blogging more about her soon.  I also was delighted to receive a groundhog named Margot in the mail. Author Lieve Snellings is as adorable and loveable as her book characters! I’ve had so much fun getting to know her!

Here’s another idea that called to me. My new video book review series debuted in January! Some people have called it a vlog, but I don’t know if I am that modern and with it! (Hep?) I do know that I have had a blast writing the scripts, making the video and creating the final YouTube product. And I finally get to see what I look and sound like, wow what a thrill. 😭😭 You will enjoy my Book…in A Minute video reviews. The fastest way to find your favorite read.

Drum Roll, please! This project really surprised me! I’ve started writing a new book! The idea is…Charli’s great-granddaughter in the year 2090! I am having a blast with this, too!

My husband and I really dialed up the focus on our health this year and we have made exciting progress with our weight! I will be sharing more about our success in a future blog. Who knew that floating around a pool could be so good for me!

I stumbled upon NetGalley and signed up to be a reviewer. I  enjoy the variety of the Advanced Review Copies, many are high-profile books. NetGalley is easy to use. Once you register, you request a book and with one click it is sent to your ebook device. What I appreciate is what they call “Your Shelf.” All the books that I have received are listed, so I know at a glance what is on my TBR list. No more worrying about forgetting to read a book that I promised to do! If you are an author or reader, you may enjoy and find value with this site. I feel like I’m a kid again, wandering through the public library, dazzled by all the books that are waiting for me!

I also had a wonderful opportunity to beta read a manuscript for a publisher! Great learning experience for me to read the book and discuss it with the editor! Quite a creative story, so I’m looking forward to the book release!

I did pass up one opportunity that came my way, which I am regretting. My sister invited me to go with her on a quick trip to San Francisco to see her kids and I thought about it and decided not to go. I told myself that we had just returned from vacation and that I had to keep an eye on the kitchen remodel, and a bunch of other dumb things I made up.

Finally, as I created this list I realized that I have a “finger quotes” Job!

I do have a book biz job and I am treating it as a full-time position starting now!

I will keep pressing on and I will keep myself open to the blessings God sends to me! I hope you are having a vibrant spring! Please share something that you are celebrating!