Sometimes, the most wonderful part of a new day is that it’s a new day. I got a good night’s sleep last night which was obviously needed. Plus I got a very nice (and long!) pep talk from my guy. Today brought the gift of more support from members of my village. First, I got a chance to talk with one of my bestee’s (and book cover artist) Tina, who shared kind words to cheer me up in her wonderful British way. Next, I got a message in my email from my website designer (this one and the new one I’ll soon be “debuting” – she’s good!) Jessica Stansberry with Southtown Creative (SouthtownCreative.com) that really made my day. She had read my post from yesterday and sent me this note:
“. . .take a deep breath, this is normal, starting something new is scary, it’s overwhelming and you feel like you’re inadequate, I get it. You know what you’re doing, despite what you think, research the best you can and combine things the best you can, don’t get overwhelmed, if you start getting overwhelmed with everything, make a list, do the most important things first and completely forget about the others until the next day . . .”
They are wise words, insightful, well earned I’m sure as she runs her own on-line business while being a busy mom too, but most of all they were thoughtful and kind. She juggles many projects and wears a lot of hats and it was extremely thoughtful of her to take the time to send me off just the note I needed.
That wasn’t all though. Next up in my gifts from friends, Brie wrote me up my first review and it’s super nice:
“Jinglebelle Jackson’s breakout debut novel, The Search for South Pole Santa: A Christmas Adventure, is a whimsical journey into the world of the spitfire Sandra Claus… and a race to preserve the very heart of Christmas magic. The population alarm has sounded at the North Pole and Santa Claus calls an unprecedented news conference in which he addresses the world and the immediate need to find an additional Santa Claus – or the world’s children will wake on Christmas morning to empty stockings and broken hearts! A fast paced and delightfully spirited competition ensues where six competitors (not all of them human!) are pitted against each other to prove who will prevail and win the role of South Pole Santa. Meanwhile, while the contestants are busy competing in reindeer flying and toy production, something ominous seems to be lurking in the background, threatening not only to upset the competition, but to silence Sandra once and for all. This novel is a must have addition to your Christmas collection!” — Brie Bagan
Then after work tonight, my parents had us over for a great garden dinner and I came home to another cheer-up message from another friend. (Thanks Rick!) Who could possibly stay in a funk when so much good is flowing your way?
And besides those good things, amazon and I seem to be getting back on track with forward movement happening with the book again, and, fingers crossed, we are aligned. They were very nice in apologizing for the mix-up on their end and explained that this is a very busy time for them and it just got dropped. I understand how that goes and appreciate their honesty. I know the book will be out on the day it’s supposed to be — even if that’s not the day I planned on. Plus, they are giving me five free ones as a result so get ready for a giveaway! The best giveaway yet! 
(I crack myself up.)
Anyhow, I’m rested up and breathing again and fighting back those sneaky ole feelings of horrible inadequacy. Hate those! A sense of calm is returning to the world of Julee. Thanks for your patience with me. And thanks extra much again to my cheer squad this round – Glen, Tina, Jessica, Brie, my parents and Rick. You all rock the house and I’m thankful for your kindness.
Tomorrow we move on to other topics so c’mon back y’all.
