So then and there, I made a decision. I would write a novel when I was done with my master’s degree program.
Of course, that was a whole year and a half later. There were times I was tempted to begin a novel anyway, but I was married, working full time, and taking two graduate courses at once. There just wasn’t time.
But in August 2011, I graduated. A week later, I began my first novel (which I have since dubbed “It Which Shall Not Be Named”). At that point, I was teaching community college and freelance editing, and I found lovely three- and four-hour chunks of time to write at the library. It was wonderful. It was freeing.
But it didn’t last.
I soon began working a full-time job again. Still, the desire was fresh and my determination was real. I read craft books on my lunch break, wrote for a few hours nearly every night, completed eight-hour writing chunks every Saturday, and did everything imaginable to pursue my dream.
Then, I got pregnant with our first son. And yeah. Fear set in. Because I couldn’t imagine how I could possibly keep writing once I had him. How would I work part time, teach online, mommy my son, and be a wife to my husband—and find time and energy for writing?
When I was about seven months pregnant, I broke down, crying for fear that my dreams would die as soon as my son was born. I texted a writer friend who has older kids. Her words soothed me. She said, “When we really want something, somehow, we find a way. We make the time to do the things we are passionate about.”
Those words gave me room to breathe, room to hope, room to relax. I was able to enjoy my son’s first months without pressuring myself to do more, knowing that the time would come when I’d be able to take up my pen once again. And about six weeks after he was born, I did. I finished the draft for my debut novel, One More Song to Sing, when my son was about three or four months old.
Now I’m once again in the midst of transition. My son is in a wonderful routine that allows me time to write—but I’m pregnant again. I’m tempted to fear I won’t find time to balance being a mom of two and an author.
But my friend’s words are once again a balm to my spirit. Somehow, I will find a way to be the author and the mom and the wife and the friend and the daughter and the sister that God has designed me to be.
And friend, so can you.
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| Lindsay Harrel |
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| Now Available! |
More than two decades ago, Olivia Lovett left her old life behind in the red dirt of Oklahoma and forged a career in Nashville as a country music star. Now her voice is failing, forcing her to find a new dream just as the secrets of her past come knocking at the door. Long-time friend Andrew Grant agrees to partner in a new business venture—but would he stick around if he knew her whole story?
After the tragic loss of her father, twenty-one-year-old Ellie Evans headed to Nashville seeking more than just fame. For two years, she’s waitressed, strummed, and sung her way to what may finally be her big break when Olivia offers to sign her to the budding record label. More than anything, Ellie just wants to be seen: by her future fans, by Nick Perry—a fellow musician with a killer smile and kind eyes—and above all else, by the mother who abandoned her. If the spotlight never shines on her, will Ellie ever feel whole?
One More Song to Sing is a romantic drama about the power of forgiveness, second chances, and a God who never fails to see us.
Thanks so much for sharing Ms. Harrel's story about how she found time to write despite all kinds of life potentially getting in the way. I look forward to reading this new author's debut novel.
Debbie, life does have a way of getting in the way sometimes, doesn't it? That's part of the adventure of it. Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you enjoy Ms. Harrel's debut novel.
I try to make time for the things I love to do, especially reading, but sometimes taking care of everyone else's needs gets in the way. Thank you and Merry Christmas 🎄
Thanks for sharing, Lucy! I like how you serve other people by meeting the needs God places in your path. Christmas blessings to you.
I am bad at finding time for things I am passionate about. What I mean is, I do the things I am passionate about and not things I should – like clean my house! Benefits of being single I guess.
Your friend is right–you make time for what you're passionate about. 🙂
Wendy, you're cracking me up. And I completely understand. 🙂 Merry Christmas!
Thanks for stopping by, Patricia! Merry Christmas to you and yours.
I learned a long time ago, I have to give things up to make time for the things that matter. It's an either/or a lot of the time. But it's worth it!
Cara, that either/or choice is a hard one to swallow at first, but you're right: it's absolutely worth it. And I think one gets used to it as time goes by. Merry Christmas, friend!