Today is the day. I gathered up all of my errant courage, said a quick prayer to the gods of art, and sent off my first agent proposal for the latest manuscript. I know that my family and friends are pulling for me, and I can count on their good energy to help me pass the time till a response comes through.

This is not my favourite part of writing. I'm sure many writers will empathise with me. As long as my darling manuscript is tucked safely and discretely under my wing, it can be my private jewel. Once it is out there floundering on its own in the real world of criticism and neglect, then it becomes little more than a stack of paper with a bunch of words, words, and more words.

It's a good story. I know that the characters are genuine and that the situations are human. I have confidence in the plot and I feel comfortable with the setting.

So what is it that is making my stomach tighten? It's just that, well, it's so darn hard to put it out there. It's almost like sending your child out on his first day of school. What if no one plays with him?

It takes a heck of a lot of work and courage to follow through on your dreams. I guess that's why so many people give up.

Not this girl, baby! Never say Uncle.

Wish me luck, friends....

Donna Carrick, February 3, 2008