One Super Tuesday

There was a historic primary election today, I'm sure you've heard. Twenty-two states making their choices for the next president. But don't be fooled by the title of this journal entry. It has nothing at all to do with politics.

It's about the publishing game and my own personal Super Tuesday.

The publishing game is like a rollercoaster. Big ups and big downs. And a long waiting line for your ride.

Waiting to hear if you're good enough. Did the magazine accept my article? Does the agent want my manuscript? Did my story make the cut?

Waiting. Waiting. Waiting.

More times than we like to admit, the waiting doesn't pay off. I've had my share of those big downs.

Still we get back in line and wait. Why? Because we want those big ups.

And sometimes the stars align just write, er, right. Today was one of those days for me.

It started with an email announcing that my story, "Recharging an Old Battery," has been accepted for publication in the book "Humor for a Boomer's Heart" (Howard Publishing, October 2008).

Then I came home to a letter from the folks at Chicken Soup for the Soul announcing that two of my stories, "Stroller Derby Season" and "Kids and Grown-Ups: Different as Knight and Day," have been selected to appear in "Chicken Soup for the Father and Son Soul," due out in bookstores next month. You can pre-order on Amazon now.

Three stories. Two books. Months and months of waiting. Two big ups in one Super Tuesday.

Excuse me if I raise my arms and scream at the top of my lungs. This time the waits were worth it.

Update on Monday, March 3, 2008 at 08:41PM by Randy Richardson

Hey, it's not going to be out until October, but you can now also pre-order "Humor for the Boomer's Heart."

Comments

[Beth]

Many many congrats, Randy!!! I'm SO excited for you!! Well-deserved success. Now you realize I'll have to buy those books and have you autograph them, to add to my RR collection. :-)

Enjoy the glow - you so deserve it. Thanks for sharing. And YAY!!

[Randy Richardson]

The RR collection? Boy, I'm flattered to know that I'm now collectible :)

Thanks so much for the nice words of support. It really does make a difference when you know that there are others out there rooting for you. I needed some a good news boost, so yesterday's double dose was just what the doctor ordered.

I hope you know that I'm am still cheering for you as well. I'd like to start a BH collection :)

[Kara]

I've been waiting all this time to know a big time author and now FINALLY, my waiting is over too! As soon as I stop raising my hands over my head and screaming, I'll shake your hand and give you a hug. I'm truly happy for you and know that this is just the beginning of many, many successes. Let me know when you want me to represent you. :)

[Donna]

I can't believe I missed your email, I almost deleted it without reading it. Wow Wow Wow (one for each story) that is absolutely fabulous! Who knew having a baby would help you in your writers career! I guess its safe to say, he is really your inspiration! I will definitely get the books!
I'm so proud of you, will you still remember us little folk when you are on Oprah??