Hello Reader,

There's something magical about summer. S'mores over the campfire, burgers on the grill, sunlight glistening on the water--I spend most dreary Pacific Northwest winters longing for the return of these little delights.

This week has been the opposite of dreary, as I was able to cram all of the above in over the past few days. I didn't realize how much I needed the R&R until I got out on Lake Union Tuesday night and felt that sunlight on my face as I watched the waves roll by.

I mean, look at it. Isn't it beautiful? But it also made me realize how much time we spend longing for things that haven't arrived yet instead of glorying in the present moment. Sure, "glorying" sounds a lot easier to do when you're out on a boat with friends or have that long-awaited book deal in hand, than it does when you're languishing in the winter of your own personal discontent.

Wait, did you really think I wasn't going to turn that into a writing metaphor? Ha! Gotcha!

Anyhow, as much as I've enjoyed my R&R this week, it's also renewed my commitment to living in the moment, even when that moment is uncomfortable. So in addition to my glorying, I did a few brave things too. I sent a pitch for something that feels risky. I followed up on a submission even though a little voice in my head told me I was opening the door for yet another rejection. I tried something new and screwed it up! And as I did those things, I lingered in my discomfort just as I lingered in those cozy feelings on that boat on Lake Union.

I did the thing(s) and not only did I not die (of embarrassment or otherwise), but I felt the feelings instead of trying to ignore them. And like magic, they passed so I could get back to the glorying. And that feels noteworthy in this moment.

Are you ready to take the leap and get some pro feedback on your writing? I've got a few Manuscript / Pitch Audits open this summer, but they won't last long. This is a great starter package, because it includes big-picture and line-level feedback, as well as market assessment, of your opening 50 pages, query, and synopsis, plus a 45-minute coaching call via Zoom. Get a taste of what it's like to work with me and an honest assessment of next steps for your work in progress for $699. Book today at: https://julieartz.17hats.com/p#/scheduling/psktgcrdtctfrnwbrwdkprpfwzpxvkhd​

Hope you're finding a little R&R as summer progresses and that you're able to be present for both the cozy and the uncomfortable!

Warmly,

Julie

PS - If my offer above made you feel squidgey, don't despair! We can talk it out via Zoom. Let me help you take the leap!