Exactly, Denise. Easier said than done sometimes!

Thanks, Tiffany! :O)

That's the truth, Ellen. If we did we probably would have run the other way! (ha) And true on sharing with writing buddies--no one else gets it. It's so helpful to have a writing friend mirror similar emotions related to similar events. I recently spoke to a writing friend who also went through the "they printed the wrong file" problem, and it was so helpful to share the experience.
I've seen the same on reviews too. Let it go...let it go...(there's an ear worm for you!) :O)

Thanks, Lynette. So interesting to read how alike we writers are in that when something challenging happens in life, we not only have to deal with that, but with how that affects our writing! It's like a double whammy every time. Shows how very invested we are in our craft. Glad you kept writing close to you throughout.

I hear you, Annette. I think we all go through low-energy "maybe I should quit" times. I sure have. It's a scary thought but I've found that just allowing it to be and taking the time I need usually leads to recovery. That and reflecting on my priorities in life and making sure I'm investing on those as well as the necessities (so I'm not burning out on the little things that don't matter as much). Take care of yourself!

Thanks for the kind words, Dale. There are so many things in a writer's life that involve "starting over," which can be so difficult when we know that building on past successes is the way to gaining readers and hopefully sales. But we have to write what we're called to write or what sparks our creativity. I applaud you for changing direction as you needed to. I imagine your muse will be more cooperative because of it! :O)

I imagine you're a master of letting things go when you need to, Alicia. Health issues have a way of demanding our attention whether we want to give it or not. So glad you're finding a way to live your writing dreams!

Sorry to hear that, Laura! Ugh. Never easy but you're right. Focus on the work!