Friday, April 16, 2010

N is for Neglect: An Open Letter to My Manuscript

Dear manuscript,

I've seriously neglected you the last sixteen days, but our daughter, son-in-law and one-year old granddaughter have been here. I've been busy.

Dear manuscript, you weren't the only thing I neglected these sixteen days. I also skipped much of my usual blog-hopping and tweeting activities. I visited only a few blogs per day and only left an occasional comment.

But to tell you the truth, I haven't had this much fun in years. Darling granddaughter won my heart with her killer grin. She has the heart of an explorer, she loves books, and she made me laugh so much my sides ache.

So, dear manuscript, I'm sorry for neglecting you. I've missed you.

Darling granddaughter (and her mommy and daddy) are leaving today. I'll miss them too.

But you and I will be together again starting tomorrow, dear manuscript. And we're going to get the job done this time around. I promise.

Your loving author,
Patricia

13 comments:

Talli Roland said...

Aw, what a sweet letter to your MS! Sounds like you had a good time with your family and I'm sure your MS will understand. Good luck rekindling your relationship.

RHYTHM AND RHYME said...

Pleased you had a god time with your family at the expense of your MS.
but I'm sure you'll soon get thingsback to normal.
Have a lovelt week-end.
Yvonne,

Unknown said...

Don't have your excuse, but I think we're all in danger of neglecting our manuscripts.

On the other hand, that stage doesn't last long, so you were wise to enjoy.

Anonymous said...

I love it :)
No better excuse to skip writing then to hang out with family. I'm glad you enjoyed their visit.

Patricia Stoltey said...

I just discovered Lesa Holstine is giving away a couple of Arizona based mysteries at her blog (Lesa's Book Critiques), including a copy of my "The Desert Hedge Murders." You have until April 22, so pop on over to her blog at: http://lesasbookcritiques.blogspot.com/2010/04/winners-and-arizona-contest.html

Elspeth Futcher said...

I'm sure your manuscript understands. Mine tends to sulk if left unattended for too long, but I'm sure yours is far more lenient. Just show it who's boss.

Hart Johnson said...

I loved this, Patricia! I write almost every day, but this is EXACTLY the kind of thing you need to take a break for. I'm glad you had such a good time with their visit!

Beth Zimmerman said...

Sounds like excellent prioritizing to me! :)

Sheila Deeth said...

Fun! I just wandered here via Beth Groundwater, via a book review. Think I'll read some more posts...

Ann Best said...

What a beautifully written letter. But family first, in my opinion. I believe that in the end it's the only worthwhile thing we really have. I would neglect my manuscript any day for a visit with any of my seven grandchildren!

Kerrie said...

I agree with WateryTart! The manuscript should be neglected for important reasons like a grandbaby. :-)

Jemi Fraser said...

Real life has to be a priority and grandbabies are the best real life of all! :)

Arlee Bird said...

the manuscript and blogs aren't going anywhere, kids keep growing up and you have to enjoy them while they're here. Family beats out work and blogging in my book.
Lee
Tossing It Out