Never Quit

On a recent vacation in the beautiful area of Pontiac, Quebec, my friends asked me about my next project. They were curious when Book 2 of The Jayme Adventure Series was coming out. Their interest took me by surprise, but also made me feel good. I informed them that they would be reading it by the end of this summer, and that the name was '?????? ?? ??? ???? ????' .... asking them to keep it secret until the launch occurs :)

I'm sharing this because as an author (a very new 'developing' one in my case) you don't get feedback very often - so you must be self motivated!  And like other art, you need to do it for yourself first. It was therefore very nice of them to be asking and encouraging me to keep going. 

The other 'thing' that you must completely do is drive forward with your best effort, even if others (insert here 'critics') think that your creation is not the next Stairway to Heaven song, or Tom Thomson painting. Feeling a little doubt and apprehension is a good thing in my opinion. For example, I thought I had Book 2 landed six months ago, only to be informed (more like 'strongly encouraged') by my editor that more was needed. So back to it I went pretty much all winter to refine, remove, change, and add. Oh yes, I did add quite a bit! The final book word count is now 60% higher than my first submission to the editor.

During these recent months I found myself replaying in my head a saying I have been using for years - 'Never Quit'. Those who know me well will recognize the saying, which I like to use from time to time when someone around me needs a boost. I also use it to encourage others at sports, improve teamwork, or bring a sense of unlimited possibility to any goal. (FYI - The origin of that saying is from a famous comic actor in a hilarious movie - I'll let you guess/research which one).

So it is with great appreciation that I thank friends, family, and readers for their ongoing support... and for keeping the 'never quit' pointing in my direction.