I set out to finish the book I had started 11 years ago, but I never expected to also start my own publishing company. The more I researched publishing, the more I realized I needed to get this done on my own terms. Nothing was easy, but it was definitely worth the effort. I really had no idea what I was getting myself into, but it all just started coming together like it was supposed to happen.
I committed to writing this book on January 1st, and finally have it in my hands on December 2nd. It’s been a real push to get to this point; getting to my computer at 4 a.m. and working on it until 7 a.m. Then coming home from my full-time job as a manager at a local non-profit by 5 p.m. to get back on my computer by 6 p.m. until 10 or 11 o’clock at night. Every weekend has been devoted to this book and starting the publishing company.
When I would take my one-hour lunch walk, my head was full of noise about what all I needed to be doing but I shut it all out. That was my one hour of respite from the hamster wheel and pressure of producing a good story, and I tried hard to focus on the trees, the leaves, the wind, and the wildlife. I wrote about what I learned and saw on those lunch walks, and you can find them on my website: margiesandersoutside.com.
It feels amazing to know I have all the tools I need to do it all over again. I will keep writing and publishing because the stories are waiting for me to do my part. The next project is the audiobook for Southbound as Told by Number 2, and it will be accompanied by an original instrumental soundtrack meant to transport readers to the trail – that perfect acoustic background for the peaceful solace of an early morning hike.
I’ve got a list of about nine more books I would like to write and publish, so I better get back to it. Thanks for reading and following along on this adventure.
From the Outside,
Margie
