Nearly three years ago, I wrote my first Teaching Authors post on a topic we all addressed in turn: "How I Became a Teaching Author." I approached the subject as I usually do: with eagerness, excitement, and a little trepidation.
Today, alas, I'm writing my last post, at least as a regular contributor. I'm teaching at two local universities, I'm active in SCBWI, and I'm swamped with freelance work that I can't turn down. Could it be that the economy is improving? Mine is, at least at the moment. Cross your fingers.
In between my first and last posts, I've been lucky. I've collaborated with the sweetest, smartest, most generous blogmates in the world. I've met (at least online) many clever readers through their thoughtful comments. And I've learned a ton, not only about the topics we posted on but also about myself and my own writing. Having that every-two-week deadline forced me to think fast and then let go, even with (gasp!) my poems. I'm not nearly as scared of posting as I used to be.
I am not disappearing completely! You can still find me on my web site, where I'll occasionally post news, although probably not as often as I posted here.
I'll be teaching "Writing Creative Nonfiction for Children and Young Adults" at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's Tenth Annual Spring Writers Festival on Sunday, March 11.
This summer, I'm teaching "Writing Picture Books," a four-week graduate course, at Mount Mary College and a five-day course at the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Write by the Lake Writer's Workshop and Retreat, "Writing Rhyming Picture Books: A Logical Approach to Sweet Stories, Silly Verse, and Soothing Lullabies."
I'm looking ahead as usual with eagerness, excitement, and a little trepidation. I hope to be back here from time to time as a guest Teaching Author. I wish you all, dear blogmates and readers, the best of luck in your continuing endeavors. I'll keep checking in.
In the meantime, March forth!
JoAnn Early Macken
Jo, I will miss your postings! But I know where to find you when I need inspiration... xoxo
ReplyDeleteJoAnn,
ReplyDeleteTalk about mixed blessings... I've enjoyed your posts and links here, but I'm also excited about your leadership in our state SCBWI. Sooner or later I'll take one of your classes, too, when the stars align!
Thank you, P.J. & Sandy. I appreciate your support.
ReplyDeletexox,
JoAnn
We will miss you terribly, JA! We wish you luck in your many endeavors and look forward to having you back as a guest from time to time. Hugs to you. :-)
ReplyDeleteLove that wordplay & I will miss it! March 4th it is! Best wishes to you in all your endeavors!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Marti! Of course, I will miss you all.
ReplyDeleteLinda at teacherdance, I'm glad to hear from you, too. Thank you!
Oh, JoAnn, we will miss you. Not that you're going anywhere, but we will miss your wonderful voice.
ReplyDeleteI think I told you that a dear friend went to heaven on March Fourth two years ago, and I think he would love your cheerful optimism, your determination to carry on.
March Forth, indeed!