I'm speaking of both years and books. I am trying to finish my guinea pig novel, and have about 3 ideas for new books - one chapter book, 2 picture books that I'm dying to start. As far as years go, 2010 was a tough one in the children's book department. Lots of close calls, but in the end, no sales. But here's to hoping 2011 is ready to buy!

As this year ends, I'm reflecting on the highs and lows. There were a bunch of lows (not always directly affecting me), but to list them would be depressing. So, I'll just list my highs from 2010:

1. Sold an article about Rejection to Writer's Digest Magazine (to appear in the Feb. 2011 issue)
2. Saw sketches for my next 2 picture books: A Dress for Me! and Tons of Trucks!
3. Received an early copy of my first finished picture book, Shoes for Me! and I am so thrilled with the finished product. It's a real book now. Can't believe it.
4. My younger son learned how to ride a 2-wheeler and pump himself on the swing. Parents can relate to this major victory.
5. My 7 year old is coasting through school and is reading everything in sight. His teacher is amazing.
6. Made some great new friends this year that I know we'll be friends with for the long haul.
7. Landed a sweet part-time writing/marketing (work-from-home) gig with a start-up run by two great women (www.cloverbyclover.com) and have been having lots of fun and success with that.
8. Did some freelance writing and pr work for two small companies, so I felt like I was adding income to the family, even in a small way.
9. Read a ton of wonderful books - hooray!
10. Wrote 5 (I think) new picture books this year, and a first draft of a chapter book (the one I'm trying to finish).
11. Hubby started at a new company that is going to go gangbusters.
12. Spent valuable time on both the East and West coasts with family and friends and hope to do more of that in 2011!

Other than that, I'm looking forward to celebrating the launch of my first-ever picture book, Shoes for Me! this March.