No, we haven’t started decorating for Christmas–yet. I thought I’d give a little writing update. Each year Covenant Communications (my publisher) publishes a collection of short, true stories from their authors. This summer they asked me to write a story for that book! Yes another exclamation point. That happens a lot when I write about being published. I can’t help it.

Anyway, the story I submitted is about our Christmas tree decorating tradition, thus the picture. Before the book went to press, Samantha, the editor, sent me the final proof. When I clicked open the file, I caught my breath. They kept my title “More Than Pinecones” for the story. It gives me hope I might get to keep my book title FALLING AWAKE. Maybe. A snowflake and swirl design topped my title followed by my name. My name in print! (Oh, my vanity!) Page numbers stamped each corner so I know my story starts on page 67. It was so real. And so exciting!

I love editors. Sam clarified a couple of clunky places in my story with some well placed punctuation. She makes me look good. Thanks, Sam!

I don’t know the title of the book yet or when it’s available for purchase. Rest assured I’ll let you know all the details. I’ll have to do a giveaway here on account of your wading through so many exclamation points. Plus, I’m just a little excited to see something I wrote published in a book and on the shelves of a bookstore! I’ll definitely have to celebrate with a giveaway.