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As in life, there are countless beginnings and ends to writing and publishing a book, and I think that’s why I love it so much. Whether it’s the end of a scene or chapter, the beginning of editing and revision, the anticipation of submitting, or choosing the cover, each part is its own little project, like laying tile or picking paint colors. All are inspired and hopeful, and once complete, I take pride in the accomplishment and allow myself a (proportionate) dance party. The end as a beginning is a concept we all experience in various ways, but we tend to take for granted because we are so focused on what’s next in our process that we don’t recognize the transformation taking place. But if we are lucky enough to get a second go with the luxury of reflecting on what we learned the first time around, that is indeed an exciting prospect. The lessons I have learned from this beginning to end journey are enumerable, but hands down, the most meaningful beginnings are the friendships I have formed and renewed thanks to the book signings, author events, book clubs, and more. For this extrovert who now works a solitary job, the post-publication meet-ups are like treating a golden retriever to a trip to the dog park. When do I get to go back, please?
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