I’ve been reminded lately that celebration is something we should do more often. In the writing world, we are happy when we get to make big announcements – book deals, releases, signing with an agent. Those announcements almost always lead to a celebratory dinner, a launch party, a champagne toast, or a hearty round of “Huzzah!” on social media.
But those BIG announcements can be a long time coming. Some writers are still waiting and working toward them.
That’s why I was so excited when critique partner and illustrator Jane Dippold presented our critique group members with Query Cowbells.
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According to Jane’s detailed instructions for use, one should:
- Ring the Query Cowbell once with extreme exuberance upon hitting “send” on any email query. Twirl in a circle like a puppy and settle into your favorite spot. You did it!
- Shake the Query Cowbell vigorously two times upon receiving any form rejection: once for perseverance and once for your amazing, but not yet accepted, manuscript.
- Upon receiving a personal rejection with vague but important revision suggestions, put the Query Cowbell down and REVISE! Ring the Query Cowbell softly, once, when you finally go to bed at 3 A.M.
- There are many more Query Cowbell instructions, but you get the idea. If you are submitting, you have reasons to celebrate!
Author Sarah Aronson has one of my favorite reasons for celebrating. “Every time I get to page 100 of a draft, I make this soup,” she says. 100-Page Party Soup. Why not? Click here for her recipe and you can make it yourself.
Author/Illustrator Lita Judge celebrates in really BIG way. She explains, “I have always felt a strong connection to Stonehenge and other ancient rock circles. I fell upon the idea that I would erect my own stones, adding a pillar each time I finish a book. When I step into the yard or look out my windows the pillars remind me of all the projects I have been fortunate enough to create. Each one is hard won and will stand for my lifetime. They are my special way of celebrating this rich life of creating.”
Fantastic tips, Michelle! I’ll certainly be passing this along. Cheers to you, too!
Michelle, thank you for the post, the “celebration rituals parade”, and thank you to Jane for reminding your critique members in such a wonderful way that the hard work is what matters most. even the parts we don’t enjoy.
Especially the parts we don’t enjoy.
You are awesome! I love your article! You inspire me!!