This year has been one of success and career growth for me. I am humbled and grateful to work with outstanding writers and the best editors in the business.
Challenges
As with every year, the needs and expectations of publishing houses continue to change and grow. Publishers are maintaining and even exceeding past quality to offer readers the best Christian books possible. This means that each year, new writers face more challenges to break in, and established authors must be vigilant in writing fresh stories to meet the criteria of The Steve Laube Agency and the publishers we work with. But the writer who’s willing to work hard and hone craft, and to be cheerful even when times get tough, stands the best chance of successful publication.
Travel
I enjoyed being on faculty at the Florida Christian Writers Conference and ACFW this year. Once again, both conferences proved to be top notch and I enjoyed meeting authors and keeping in touch with publishing friends. ICRS was another highlight, as always, for the same reasons.
Reality
Regrettably, the reality of mortality has been present for my family this year. Not only did we face the death of a friend from a car accident this past fall, but we have just learned that a former neighbor has two months to live. Readers of this blog remember that my husband was thankfully spared in the shooting rampage in his building at the Navy Yard. That close call helped us remember the preciousness of life. God is good, and I am not afraid.
Beginnings
On a happier note, our daughter graduated from high school and is now attending Liberty University (see her picture below). We were thrilled that our other daughter and her husband visited from South Korea to help us celebrate the wonderful occasion. John and I enjoy being empty nesters, always in gratitude to God that both of our daughters have stayed faithful to Him.
Wishes
May the Lord bless you and keep you as we approach a glorious 2014!
