Never has there been a more glorious moment than writing these two short, little words:
It is not the first time I’ve reached THE END of a manuscript, but this one has been something of a HERCULEAN effort. I had the idea for Baby Number Two in 2012 and after mulling it over for a while, I wrote the first chapter to enter into the New Talent Award at the Festival of Romance. Much to my surprise, the first chapter was shortlisted and I was invited to attend the New Talent Reception prior to the Awards dinner. Looking back on my iPhone pictures these two photos are next to each other:
I took this test on the day I was heading up to the New Talent Award Reception, so no champagne for me then. It also put a stop to any writing for some while, because that faint little line turned out to be twins and throughout pregnancy I was a) not able to write because my brain was mush and b) I didn’t want to jinx anything, which was silly and irrational, but that pretty much sums up emotions during pregnancy.
It was only once the twins arrived safely that I managed to consider writing again. This story that I’d created over a year ago needed to be written. But how, with twins? I talked about that on my last vlog and turning to the traditional pen and paper route worked for me. Gradually, at every given opportunity, I have scribbled away and have managed to get those 3,000 words to roughly 80,000 words.
It’s taken me nearly 3 years and I managed to produce two children quicker, but at long last I can say I’ve reached THE END.
Now truth be told, I should take this opportunity to recline on the sofa for a very long time. I’m pretty sure I need to, but as parenthood doesn’t allow that, and certainly not in the day time then I’m continuing to fill every spare minute and am already 100 pages into editing. Because crossing the finish line is a great feeling, but I’m still chasing the dream that everyone gets the chance to read this story.
Catherine x
The Romaniacs 
I’ll look forward to reading it, Catherine. I’m sure I’ll get the chance before too long! X
Thank you, Sharon. I really hope you do – fingers crossed xx
What a wonderful accomplishment to achieve with all the work that you must have had to do with your twins too. Well done, good luck with it.
Thank you! It has made it that much more of a celebration! xx
A reckon this one deserves to be out there, Catherine. Wow! Major achievement – in all baby birth departments! Well done you. 🙂 xx
Three babies in three years! That”ll be my headline 🙂 Thank you xx
Well done, Catherine. Can’t wait to read it x
Thank you, Suzie xx
Congratulations on finishing. Children are definitly quicker to produce than books, but probably because the needs of children are immediate where as the needs of a book can be postponed a little. I started writing my first book while on maternity leave with my youngest. She turned 4 recently and the book is now in the editing stage. I’ll get there, your example proves it can be done.
It certainly can be. I think children have made me value all the spare moments I get. Good luck with getting your editing finished xx
Well done, Catherine, I’m very impressed! When I had my twins I think it was about 6 months before I even brushed my hair 😉
Good luck with your book. xx
I’ve had mine chopped shorter so I don’t need to brush it as much and my house is the untidiest it;s ever been! But I can say it’s been worth it just to get it finished! xx
Congratulations Catherine! Great stuff – can’t believe you managed it with twins! See you at the Summer Party? x