I actually don’t know where to start. I’ve drafted this post like four times. What a dork. Is it weird that I feel like the first one has to be grand and memorable? It’s not like the start of a novel; hardly anyone will read this beginning. (Please, dear God of the publishing world just let me ((my agent)) sell my novel and make lots of people read it so I can call myself a YA author.) But until the manuscript becomes the novel, there is this blog’s beginning.
Tonight I was eating birthday cake with my husband’s friends (Josh turned 36), and they asked me about my book–specifically, something to do with the sex scene. We had a good laugh over John’s disappointment that I did not use the phrase “purple-headed warrior,” in the book. But, the thing is, I’m beginning to feel like a writer. Up until now, I’ve always felt that cloud of amateurism over my head in social settings, ducking my head and explaining away this *thing* I’ve been doing for about seven years that may or may not become a profession. This *thing* that takes time away from my husband and kiddos, that leaves my house unsuitable for hosting parties, and that makes me incredibly happy. I usually sounded something like, “Well, yeah, I’m working on a book, but you know, well, yeah, maybe some day, I mean I hope, um, yeah I’m serious about, I just ya know…*snort*…so what do you do?” But tonight, I sounded different. I’m not saying I sounded confident, but I finally didn’t sound like I was Eugene from Grease, either.
It’s a start.
Jody Sparks Mugele 
Ok, first of all just wanted to say that I love this as your first post. And second, I actually never really thought you sounded like an amateur. That being said, you have sounded much more excited and more confident when you talk about writing lately. I love it!
Welcome to the blogging world, Jody! Great start to your blog.
I think many of us in creative fields feel this way when asked, “so what do you do?”, especially because it only seems to bring up more questions that need to be answered :-).
I have 2 things to say, number 1: I agree with Josh! I think “purple-headed warrior” would have probably been the break through movie deal for your book! And B, it makes you incredibly happy, that’s what I say about my career choice and it makes life so much happier!! Congrats on the book and on your blog, I look forward to reading your second blog!
Jody, I’m so proud of you! Can’t wait for more posts.
I struggle with this, too. All writers — even writers with published short stories and poems — fight their way through the cruel phalanx of sniffy questions/friendly queries/self-doubt. My daughter’s stepmom-in-law (an attorney)once said to me “How lucky you are to stay home. I’m still working!” How I wish I’d said “I AM working!” and given it some slice, you know? We ARE writers. I’ve read your prose, so I know first-hand: You’re a writer, and I’m glad you’ve started to…self-identify. By the way, your writerly editing skills are partially responsible for MY novel’s current state of chaos. You were right: I needed to rip it apart and put it back to together. The truth hurts (but nothing else will do)!
Hey, welcome to Blogarooneyland! Make sure to leave a note on f/b when you’ve added to this blog so that people will be sure to remember to visit.
Rusty
YAY!!! welcome to blog world!
You guys rock! Angela, you’ll always hold a special place in my heart as my first commenter. Thanks so much for the encouragement. Rusty, I love reading your work and I can’t wait to see revisions! Thanks a million, everybody.
pretty, now lets customize the hell out of it! Make your logo bigger? Add a background, edit the rss button.
Now where is that tutorial that isnt in japanese? oh thats right – it does. not. exist.
Yay for blogs. I’ll add you to my reader. ‘Cause I’ve got so much extra time on my hands these days.
Love it! Looking forward to future posts!
Great first post, Jody. I can so relate! When an agent loves your work and offers to represent you, it’s a huge validation of your craft. My agent wasn’t able to sell my first novel, and I’ve slipped back to the stumbling, muttering, “Oh, you know, someday…” change-the-subject kind of response when people ask about my books. It sounds like you’re taking the time to carefully revise with your agent’s guidance, and you’ll have an amazing polished manuscript to present. Here’s hoping you make a big splash in the publishing world! (And I’m hoping to follow in your footsteps!)
🙂
Kristin
Excited for this new venture. I’ve already added you to my Google Reader. Can’t wait for more!
What a beautiful writer you are! Expressing what we all feel about one thing or another…
LOVE IT. LOVE YOU.
I AM Soooooooooooooooo Proud of you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I remember you writing in your journal, reading bits & pieces & I was blown away at the way you were able to express your views on the world! You are beautifully amazing & amazingly beautiful & I am very proud to call you my friend! Love you!
Jody- I love it! You are so talented and I can’t wait for more…
I am looking forward to reading your post and your book! I think you’re great!
Hey there friend,
I am so excited to see you finally fulfilling a dream of yours. I know that you will be successful in this next chapter of your life. I have great expectations for what is to come. Keep up the good work, it will all “pay” off in the end. Love you bestest buddy in the whole wide world 🙂
Jennie
Jody!!!!
WOW!
You’re AMAZING! all over again!
can’t wait for MORE!