Good Morning Ladies,
Finally heard from the woman at the Dallas Morning News. She said they were not interested in adding any lifestyle columns at present, but that she would keep my idea in her file for future consideration. I'm not surprised, but definitely disappointed. A friend suggested I become a Guide at About.com and I'm considering it, though it wouldn't be on the subject I most want to write about. On the positive side, I've been working on my book about becoming a widow. Up to now, it's been way too painful to work on, but after I hit the three year mark, I decided it was time to move on and start working on it. It just feels right, I feel like I have to do this. Trouble is, making a living is still paramount. So, now it's time to fall back and regroup. I'm not giving up. There has to be a way to make this idea work.

Hey girlfriend. May I make a suggestion or two?

1) That particular newspaper isn't the only one around. Submit your idea to others. There are literally thousands and I sent out queries to about 50 one time and got a gig that way. It lasted 2.5 years.

or

2) Start a newsletter. It won't cost you a dime to do it because it can be sent via email. You can get people to contribute stories or essays to it, and may even get a sponsor for it. If so, then move on to something like Constant Contact where you can put in graphics, banners, ads, etc...

Don't give up. There IS a way. You have to ask yourself, how bad do I want to do this. You already know the answer.

I'm sending positive thoughts your way! I STILL believe it is an excellent idea!

"I'm not giving up."

Those are the words you need to keep with you, Copygal. Your time will come.

Kathy

the smaller papers may be more receptive...keep going...

Good Morning Ladies,
Thank you, thank you, thank you for the wonderful encouragement and a special thank you to the Queen for some great ideas. I'm going to send the pitch letter, article and sample columns to as many newspapers as I can. Wish me luck. In the meantime, I'm working like crazy on my book. I can't concentrate on any other projects right now, so I guess that means I'm moving in the right direction. The words are just flowing, always a good sign. And I've contacted Infinity Publishing for some information on their publishing services. Anyway, thanks again for everything. Ya'll are the best!

Oh Copy, stay with it. I would buy your book on widowhood in a heartbeat. You've been such an encouragement to me in my darkest hours. I've loved your blog, copied them and re-read them. They show kind, courageous insight. Sadly, there are many boomer widows and your writing is a light in a tunnel of grief. Go for it! Love and blessings to you~

copy, how are the queries coming along?

There are plenty women in here who have written their stories. Maybe they aren't about widowhood, but I'm sure they'd be happy to answer any questions you have about writing your story.

Copygal sent you a PM...keep up the good work.

It sounds like you have a passion for your book. That is a very good sign. Keep plugging on it, you'll get there. Good luck, my friend.

Cynthy,
I'm so touched by your words, it took me some time to know what to say. I'm just so grateful that I could help. I think of you often and I know your first year is coming to a close. I can tell by the tone of your emails and posts that you are doing better, though the pain and sadness are still there. The pain never goes completely away, though it does become more tolerable; the sadness makes way eventually for the happy memories to surface, the good times, the fun you had, the things you accomplished together. Making a new life without your husband doesn't sound desirable, but must be done, and you're going to be all right. Remind yourself of all you've learned and accomplished on your own. Your husband would be very proud of you.

Anyway, thanks so much for your very kind words, I'm touched and humbled and grateful I could help. That's why I'm writing this book.