It struck me today as I was sitting at the computer, fingers flying over the keys, a thousand thoughts darting through my head. (Yes, my thoughts tend to dart rather than progress in a reasonable or orderly fashion – which is why this rabbit trail is in here.)
I’m a full time author.
Whew. That’s a crazy thought.
It was a rather big step. But for this period of my life, and until/unless God moves me elsewhere, I’m writing full time.
And loving it!
There is so much to learn. So much to experiment with. And so many ideas that it’s almost daunting trying to sort through them all.
It’s amazing!
I get so focused when I’m writing that there are many times when my family tries to speak to me or ask me a question, and I simply don’t hear. I’m ten thousand leagues away, tramping across the heathery downs of Leira on the last day of autumn before the Winter Turning. I can picture the moment…
The sky turns to gold as the sun sinks towards the horizon. The tips of Autaire’s fiery fingers dip behind the sea and then, a flash of pure white rushes across the sky. Cold wind whisks in from the north, twisting my hair around my face and burning in my throat. Tiny flakes of snow slip from the sky, whispering tales of wonder before melting on my hands. A sea of white already stretches before my feet. Winter Turning has come.
*Blinks rapidly* Oh, sorry about that! You know, I could almost feel that snow, but I’m back again.
This past week, my days have progressed from brainstorming the intricate plot lines of Song of Leira, to researching methods of torch making online (don’t worry, it’s safe!), to working on the first round of edits for Out of Darkness Rising, to sewing costumes for the book trailer that I’m going to be filming soon.
That’s my very exciting news actually.
I’m going to be filming a book trailer for Out of Darkness Rising in the next few weeks. I’ve been working like mad recruiting actors and figuring out locations and sewing costumes. I’m not much of a seamstress but one does what one has to. And they haven’t turned out too bad so far… I’m actually quite pleased with some of them!
Left to right: peasant costume, little girl’s peasant dress, and knight’s surcoat. |
Close up of little girl’s peasant dress. |
There are still so many things to figure out for the book trailer. I’m praying for good weather. Hoping that I can get all of my actors here and that it doesn’t pour when I do. Hoping I have enough time to get all the costumes finished. And hoping that the trailer will turn out well when all is said and done.
But surprisingly, I’m not worried. Admittedly, I was a few days ago. But thanks to a reassuring chat with my Mom, and an even better talk with my heavenly Father, I know that it will work out. Not necessarily in my timing. Not necessarily according to my plans or as I want it to. But in the perfect timing and in the perfect way!
And that’s just plain comforting!
So, as the first month of the new year comes to a close, I cannot help but reflect on the adventures of 2011, the adventures I’ve already had in Haiti this year, and the exciting adventures awaiting just around the corner!
Mary Ruth Pursselley says
Wow! I'm so excited for you, and I'll be keeping you in my prayers!
Precentor says
Wow, you've been busy! Great job on the sewing craft, the closeup on the peasant girl's dress really looked good!
Keep up the good work,
Charley R says
Wow, you sew really well! I can barely sew up a rip or stitch on a button – I'm that useless, lol!
BEst of luck with trailer filming – I love the thought of doing that for my books one day, but in my present environment it just isn't possible hehe.
Can you put the trailer up for us to see? It would make me a very happy bunny one day :)
Rachelle says
I loved reading this, Gillian! I'm so happy for you ~ full time writing is a place I want to come to this summer when schoolwork won't press so heavily! :)
Thanks for the look into your life! And have fun with those costumes!
Gillian Adams says
Mary Ruth – Thank you! Prayers are always appreciated!
Precentor – Busy yes. But it's good! I think the little peasant dress is my favorite so far. And my little sister looks absolutely adorable in it, so naturally she got the part! :)
Charley – Haha, up until this point, sewing up rips and stitching on buttons was the extent of my sewing experience. Yes! I'll definitely load the trailer once it's finished.
Rachelle – thanks for commenting and following the blog! I know what you mean. Up until this semester I've been in that exact same position!