I had a book signing on Saturday. Normally that fills me with excitement, and I really, really enjoy getting out there and being able to talk to the readers face-to-face.  But Saturday was hard. My elderly cat, a solid and faithful companion for 15 years, had to be put down on Saturday. I quite literally petted her silky fur, kissed her head, dried my tears, and drove to the book signing.

It was so great being able to talk about my book with new people and signing books for the fan that stopped by. That will never not be great. And I smiled and I thank them sincerely, all the while hoping they couldn’t see how hard I was bleeding on the inside. These are the times that try an authors soul. But they’re also the times that you can draw on and use in a story at a later date. I have a feeling there’s going to be a feline showing up somewhere  in one of my books.

On top of the emotional punch of Saturday, I’m still recuperating from a rather serious injury  and that has been no picnic. These last few weeks have shown me an escalated level of pain, and a whole lot of frustration battling insurance companies. The stress level isn’t exactly conducive to the mindspace I need as I’m finishing up the latest draft on the  next book. that deadline is approaching, so it’s stress on top of stress.

I’ll get through it. I know I will. I’m not inherently someone who wallows in misery – quite frankly I don’t have time for that. and all of it is fabulous writing f fodder, when all is said and done.

I just wish it was done.

Onward.