Contemporary Romance Writer: With Apologies to Friends and Family as I Write Book #2

Beth VogtContemporary Romance, Writing 29 Comments

Dear Family and Friends,

I’m sorry.

Truly and deeply sorry.

I’m sorry for the washed-but-not-folded laundry. If you’re looking for a clean pair a jeans, check the dryer.

I’m sorry that I’m not cooking. Again. Well, for me, the truth is I’m not cooking still. Thank you, God, that my husband loves to grill even during the winter months and that my son-in-love thinks cooking world-class meals is relaxing. Imagine that.

I’m sorry that you’ll become much-too-familiar with the back of my head. And that I won’t hear you when you talk to me unless you spin my desk chair around and make sure we’ve made eye contact. But please spin the chair s-l-o-w-l-y. I’ve had vertigo since May 2011, remember?

I’m sorry, friends one and all, that I can’t do lunch. Or breakfast. Or dinner. Sorry I don’t (always) answer the phone when you call. I do, however, text — on occasion.

I’m sorry I’m spending way-too much time with imaginary people. Kendall and Griffin and Evey and Heath and Ian. Weeks ago, I even asked some of you what I should name them. Or talked to you about their problems. Thank you for listening. I’m sorry that I’m all about understanding them — and you feel neglected. Let’s call it like it is: You are neglected.

The one thing I cannot apologize for? Being a writer, specifically a contemporary romance writer. For all the “I’m sorrys” I can’t not write. I do have a deadline after all. But more important: Deep in my soul I know God designed me to be a writer.

The last thing I want to say? Not an apology — but a huge thank you. Thank you, family and friends, for understanding. For believing in me when I don’t. And for celebrating with me when all the hard work pays off.

With much appreciation because without you I couldn’t do this,

Beth

In Your Words: Writers, did I forget to apologize for something? Readers and family and friends of writers: Want to weigh in?

Comments 29

      1. Well, I thought you were giving me permission to “write one,” as in write a book …
        😉
        But, I was also “write on.”
        Always appreciate your encouragement, Stacy.

  1. Isn’t it great to be right in the middle of where God wants you? Hope I can write an apology to my friends one day SOON. If not, I’m still where He wants me. Writing.
    Great post, Beth

    1. You are right where God wants you, Pat. And it’s good to rest in that. This is not wasted time. Confident you’ll be apologizing too.
      🙂

    1. Thanks for the encouragement, Dee.
      And I am so appreciative of family and friends (like you), who understand this season in my life.

  2. When should I expect your daughter to move in? Should she bring laundry with her? (I fold and have been known to iron now and then.) You know I can keep her after school as long and as often as you need.

    I’m so proud of you my writing friend! I can’t wait to read book #2 (and re-read book #1 in paper form). YOU CAN DO IT AND DO IT WELL!

    1. 🙂
      Really, we need to live closer. That way, I can point Christa to your house and watch her walk over.
      Thanks for always understanding. And for feeding my daughter.
      And cheering me on.
      And for suggesting names.
      😉

      1. So you’re thinking the neighboring houses with the tunnel connecting them, as the girls suggested, wouldn’t be so bad after all! 😉

  3. So happy to be sharing a small part of this season with you, my friend! May your days be filled with great words as a beautiful story comes to life under your fingers.

  4. Wow, so I’m not the only one with neglected friends and family? Good to know! 🙂

    I’ve been in this place before. A few times. And I’m sure I will be there again. But God is good and gives us just enough strength for today. And of course, wonderful support systems with seemingly neverending patience!

    May His strength be sufficient for you today, dear friend!

  5. I’m printing this out onto a poster to hang outside my office door. But only after I have a “real” deadline, which would then make me feel a bit more justified in being a keyboard hermit which I am now either with or without apology. Totally depends on the Muse.

    FUNNY about spinning the chair around to be sure they have your full attention. Yes. I can’t count the number of times I’ve nodded to something being said while I’m writing only to discover I’m totally out of the loop later. (Which, at my age, can’t always be blamed on writing.) I will add to my sign: Please make sure you’ve made solid eye contact. The kind that R-E-G-I-S-T-E-R-S. Give me a moment to remember who you are and that you are, in fact, a live person who is really speaking and not the voice of a secondry character wheedling for some extra time on stage.

    Great post, Beth. Lord, please bless the work of our fingers and the sacrifices of our time with family. Guide the words our hearts tumble out, may they make Jesus a little clearer to someone and be eternally worth every moment spent arranging them onto the page .

    1. Camille:
      I have told my family many times that I need a T-shirt with this printed on the back: If you can read this, I can’t hear you.
      Thank you so much for such a precious prayer.
      I’m printing it out to post over my desk.

  6. I was just saying this to my husband this morning! Thank you for making me feel validated ;). One day, this will all pay off. But in the meantime, it’s a blessing to be where God puts us, writing faithfully for an audience of One. Blessings on you, Beth!

  7. Hehe…if it was me writing a letter to friends/family, I’d have to apologize for my writing-related mood swings – the slightly over-the-top giddiness when things are clicking, my Eeyore days when I’m not so thrilled with my story’s cooperation or lack thereof. 🙂 Fun stuff, Beth. Praying for you as you write book two!

    1. Oh, now I need to add a P.S., Melissa.
      P.S. I’m sorry I’m moody. It’s them, not me. Really.
      Please leave copious amounts of sugar and caffeine outside my office. Believe me, it will stabilize my moods.
      😉

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