Getting My Memoir Ready for You To Read
Hi Family and Friends,
It’s sunny and warm in Southern California, which means lots of time on the baseball field with my son, holding my daughter’s hand as she learns how to roller skate in our front yard, and sweet family time in our lawn chairs eating popsicles and ice cream as the sun sets. In between, I’ve been writing and editing. I’m adding words and fleshing out chapters in book three of my Scottish Stars Series, Beneath the Starlight, and editing my personal memoir, The Words Between Us.
But my primary focus right now is editing. I planned to have my memoir completed last year. And then, we had news that my husband, Charles, needed life-saving brain surgery. Then, I thought I’d finish editing during his recovery as I took some time off to care for him. As you can imagine, my plans failed.
But that’s okay. I believe in the power of timing. Though it’s taken me longer than imagined, this time has given me extra introspection and fresh focus.
Still, at times, editing has been difficult—more so than I ever thought possible—because editing my own life story and my truth (from my journal originally during one of the hardest years of my life) is extremely emotional and challenging. Add to that Charles’ recent surgeries and ongoing medical issues…while I continue as the main provider and primary parent…has been a lot to put it lightly. BUT there’s something inside me that keeps pushing me onward. Telling me not to quit.
Have you heard that voice or felt that tug, telling you that you’re meant to do something? That it would change your life? Don’t ignore it.
I’m not. So, I keep editing—and keep getting closer to that finish line, ensuring:
Every scene and chapter serves a purpose;
Accurate events (I tried to ask my husband some facts, but memory loss is still an issue) are told;
My narrative voice weaves itself seamlessly;
Superfluous sentences and words are cut;
And most of all, ensuring that I tell my story with vulnerability, honesty, and love.
One of the most beautiful parts about editing is reading our story again, and I can’t wait for you to read it. I’m almost done with the third draft. I can see the finish line.
So, what’s next?
You, dear reader. I’ve sent some chapters and pages to author friends and a good friend, but I’ll be looking for some beta readers very soon next month (before Beneath the Starlight). If you’ve been following my journey and socials, and are interested, I’d love for you to be a beta reader. I always open opportunities to my newsletter subscribers first, so you if you haven’t subscribed, be sure to do so.
Why would you enjoy The Words Between Us?
If you like:
Emotional-driven narratives;
Honest stories of love and heartbreak;
Second chances;
Self-discovery;
Navigating the breakdown of a marriage and shadow loss (feeling intense grief associated with significant changes in a spouse’s life, appearance, and behavior, as well as one’s relationship with them);
Redefining intimacy and one’s love language;
The intersection of motherhood, marriage, career, and caregiving;
Faith and the power of God’s love;
And finding joy again…
…you’ll enjoy my memoir. I can’t guarantee you won’t cry, but you’ll smile, laugh, and maybe even find hope and inspiration alongside me.
Until next time, I send you lots of love,