A WEEKEND WRITER NO MORE --

Wednesday is about writing, and I certainly have something to share today.

On Monday of this week, I submitted a letter of resignation at my day job. I say it’s time. My writing friends say, it’s about time.

After fifteen years of working in education and employment programs with disadvantaged clients, the last seven of which also included a second job - writing novels for Harlequin - I had reached a crossroad. It’s not because I wanted to tell my employer to “take this job and shove it.” In fact, I’ve derived immense satisfaction from assisting people to earn their GED diplomas, construct resumes for their job search, and provide food from our pantry when they needed sustenance. I have enjoyed the camaraderie of co-workers whose goals were similar to mine. Lunchtime with some of my peers has resulted in good friendships.

I have also enjoyed receiving a paycheck every week! Writers are self-employed with income arriving sporadically.

I will miss the day job; I do not leave it lightly. But time is passing.

I know I am fortunate to have tasted success as a novelist. The pleasure of connecting with readers who write to me about my stories, the author friends I’ve made, and the joy I’ve had in delving deeply into the craft itself cannot be overstated. I’ve loved it all! And want more. My goal is a full-time writing career. Are there stories I might imagine if I had more time to dream, or to conduct research? Do I have the skills to flex more writing muscle? Frankly, I don’t know. But I want to find out. And time is passing.

I have already lived the dreams of every little girl – falling in love, becoming a young wife, a new mother, an equal partner in a wonderful marriage. I count my blessings every single day. And although time is passing, there is a season for everything. This is my season for a new dream.

I wish you many seasons and many dreams.

Linda, who loves reading and writing Everlasting Love stories