A Wild Roller Coaster Ride

No one would argue that our lives seem to move at roller coaster speeds. We've gotten used to having everything from food to information at our fingertips in a matter of seconds. So when something unexpected happens and we have to wait, it can leave us feeling stranded at the bottom of a dip. I remind myself that ups and downs in life make the ride more interesting and maybe I can learn something from them. Last month after some medical testing, I discovered that I had a herniated esophagus. I was bummed out for while but decided at my age why not just repair it with surgery instead of taking pills for the rest of my life? I didn't dread the surgery as much as being on a full liquid diet for two weeks then on a soft diet for another two. Then a couple of days before the surgery, I got some good news. My book— SOWING NORTHERN FIELDSwas nominated as a finalist in one of Romance Writers of America's big contests for 2018—Romance Through the Ages!  It was a nicely timed diversion that gave me something positive to think about during a difficult time. I'm feeling better now and I'm glad I did the surgery. I can only hope when the winners are announced at the RWA conference this summer, the news will push me up the next hill. Wish me luck!