Good news.  My editor called this morning to say that everyone at SMP loves my proposal.  There are a few questions, basically things for me to keep in mind as I write, but now that I have a green light, I can start.

I’m psyched!

And suddenly nervous.  Drafting a proposal is one thing.  As real as my characters are, they’re still hypothetical.  Suddenly now, they’re etched in blood.

Well, not really.  But you know what I mean.

Now, those plot elements I sketched out in my proposal have to be detailed.  Now, there’s a blank screen waiting for me each morning at dawn.  Now, there’s the pressure of writing a certain number of pages each day.

I’m not complaining.  Would-be writers all over the world would give their right arm to be in the position I am.  Believe me, I get it.  and I’m forever grateful.  Still, even after all this time, starting a whole new book is might-y daunting.

So I write.  “Once upon a time … ”

Well, that’s actually not my opening line.  This is:

“Charlotte was used to feeling grungy.”

Remember this, then compare it with the first line of the book when it comes out in its final form.  First lines are crucial.  As catchy as I think this one is right now, in a week it might not sound as good.  I’ll change it a dozen times before settling on a permanent one.  Same with the opening chapter.  How many drafts do I do?  It’s impossible to know.  The editing process is continual.  But more on that another time.

On a light note, stitch night Monday was awesome!  I didn’t get much knitting done – too much talking – but I did love seeing everyone.