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I love the silence in the snow and the whoosh of the water - both when I ski :) Hope you have a great time.

Yes. Absolutely worth it. I hope time stands still for you this weekend. Enjoy your beautiful family!

I can relate as a writer and a skier. Have a blast. I’m glad to hear you wear a helmet. I do too. I’ll be hitting the slopes again in a week and I can’t wait!

I absolutely wonder at times if it's worth it. But then I see something I've written in print or I hear a comment about how a piece of mine has ministered to someone, and then yes, it's all worth it...

Ahhh...Skiing. I love it, but haven't been in over 10 years. If I go again, my skis will look like antiques!

Enjoy it! I'm jealous you have skiing so close to home.

Absolutely! And the toughest challenges are probably the most satisfying when accomplished. Have a wonderful time. Cute photo.

Your DD is almost as tall as you are, and THAT'S saying something. What a great pic!!

I always ask myself if vacations are worth everything we have to do to prep to go, and the work it takes to get back in the swing of things when we get home. (The only time we EVER have to "unpack" more is when we're at church, haha.) But it's always worth it in the end.

Writing is always worth it, too, for me. A single appreciative comment about something I've written can keep me going happily for a while, no matter how difficult the going might be. I do have some things in my life right now that aren't worth it, though. Some of those are getting deleted, so that I have energy for the struggles that produce the results I'd like to see.

Have a great time with your family, Rachelle!

Yes! I've wondered that. And yes! It's worth it. :)

When my alarm goes off at 5am and it's time to get up and write, I wonder what in the world I'm doing. After a cup of coffee, it's worth it. :)

While I'm putting on all my snowboarding gear I ask myself the same thing. This year I'm not able to go I had two knee surgeries, I miss snowboarding a great deal. I use to go outside when there getting ready to close the lifts and the snow machines are shooting snow out down the mountain. It was amazing! So now I spend my time reading and writing for hours. It's all worth it!

nice. have a fun skiing today...sure sounds worth it...smiles.

I think all writers wonder that at some point. But it is the love of the craft that keeps us going. I am not a skier. The thought of getting on and off a lift terrifies me, and having to navigate my way down an enormous hill on two thin pieces of wood or whatever they're made of now just about blows my mind. I think writing is similar. Just as you take a chance every time you get on the lift, that you're going to come down that hill all in one piece, so do we when we sit down to write that next chapter, or polish a manuscript and submit it. We have to believe that somebody somewhere out there will resonate with our words. And yes, sometimes we fall. And it hurts. But, like a good run, the finished product of what we worked so hard for, is well worth it.
Enjoy the slopes and I shall enjoy the sound of my fingers flying across the keys of my laptop! May we both find success and pleasure in the moment.

Skiing is worth it. I think it will be a bit more fun when I'm not carrying all my kids skis and stuck on the beginner slopes with them. :) And I don't think any of us would be writing if we didn't think it was worth it.

I've never gone downhill skiing, but with anything you enjoy, the prep is very worth it. Enjoy your day on the slopes!

Is writing worth it--the rejection, the waiting, the wondering?? Oh, yeah! Big time worth it. All that hard work eventually pays off. :)

Yes, definitely! Last fall, I feel like I shut out so much from my life just to finish my manuscript. It was great to know that I'd finished writing it, but when I realized how hard it would be to get it published or how much work I still needed to do with building a platform and so on, I felt incredibly discouraged. I think, though, that the process has taught me to have perspective when it comes to my writing vs. my life and how to prioritize. I love writing, and I do hope that someday my memoir gets published, but NOTHING comes before my family, and I also need to remember to be there for my friends.

Have fun skiing!!! I'm jealous!! :-)

Do I ever wonder if all the writing is worth it? Pretty much every day (ha!). But then if I don't do it, it just calls me back, because my mind keeps working on the challenge of the story.

:)

Make memories!

~ Wendy

Yes I wonder and yes it's worth it. I'm pretty good at procrastinating, but then when I finally sit down to write and really get in the flow it's so satisfying I wonder why I don't write every waking moment.

Enjoy your day in the snow!

y.e.s. it's so important to step away as you've done today. awesome photo!

Again today I am reminded, you are indeed the poet inside the agent :)

It is worth ... the long hours with no guarantee of outcome ... the worry and the doubt ... and at last the payoff ... that one moment when you are inside the magic.

Ah! The beauty of the Rocky Mountains. The high that you get as you glide down that mountain and see the wonders around you. Is it all worth it? You Bet!

Many joyous memories for you and your family!!

Writing is worth every minute invested in pouring the words out of me and onto the page. Writing is what I do; the love of my life (next to my husband); my heart's desire.

I borrow a stanza from Pink Floyd's "Learning To Fly" to describe my writing experience: There's no sensation to compare to this; suspended animation, a state of bliss.

Have a beautiful weekend in the mountains! ~ Angela

This is a great analogy!

I love to both ski and scuba dive. Both sports are very gear intensive and require travel and preparation. but both sports have the same saying: There's no such thing as a bad dive. There's no such thing as a bad day on the slopes.

Just like with writing, all the classes, the learning, the preparation, the risks, and the blunders are all worth it for those moments when you're doing something you love, getting better and better at it, and lost in your own world.

As a writer... do you ever wonder if it's all worth it? Yes. Every day.

Enjoy your time away:)) I only skiied once in Vermont as a freshman in colllege and paid for it dearly:)
Yes, there are moments I wonder why write. But haven't figured out how to stop yet.

Skiing is a lot of work, especially if you're not used to the elevation. But it is fun.

Yes, sometimes I wonder if it's worth it, but only when I'm working on my middle grade novel. The picture books are lots of work, but that's just the way my brain works, so I enjoy them more.

Snow covered trees. Thick snowflakes. Totally worth it. Writing evokes the same feeling within me.

Snowboarding and writing are always worth it. Never a doubt. Especially if you can do both in the Rockies. Have a great time!

Wait--there's a sound system in your helmet? That's so cool! You really do learn something new everyday :) I might just have to try skiing someday now--lived in CO my whole life and haven't tried it yet.

As far as writing...sure, I have those days. But mostly it's hard to even formulate the entire thought before I'm already assuring myself it's definitely worth it. Have a great time!

Having one of those "is it worth it?" segments in my life, and it's awful. When I'm writing, I'm in heaven. The problems around me are at a distance--I am sympathetic but not empathetic because they're not actually touching me.

And then there are the times when I'm not-writing. It's like a minor virus. You're not sick in bed, but you're not quite right. Nothing is right. These times happen when I falter, when I get a rejection or critique that seems to come out of left field. Yes, I can take constructive criticism--but once in a while life seems to gang up. The rejection, the illness, the family crisis, the unexpected financial problem. And then I falter, and think I should give up and get a job that pays. But I know I'll be miserable, so I try again. And it will be worth it.

Oh Nebraska living... where the tallest hill is the snow mound at the end of my driveway...

Your description makes me green with envy! Have fun!

As a professional writer for more than 20 years, I can say writing is not "fun," it's hard work. What's the secret to making it fun?

Theoretically writing always feels too hard, and some days I can scarcely envision my next move. But I can't seem to stay away. The unfinished projects are calling. I love the skiing analogy because you're right, it seems that everything wonderful in life is inconvenient and time consuming. And worth it.

I am SOOO JEALOUS! I want to be skiing...

That is all.

Is it worth it? Yes... and no. Yes, when I keep my eyes on the reason I write. No, when I get caught up in the tyranny of worrying about publication, popularity, and book sales. I feel God has called me to write--and to speak. So, I'll keep on writing and speaking as long as He plants ideas in my mind and gives me oppotunities. If it's for me and my own growth & development, great. If it's for others, even better! I'm honored when He allows me to participate!

Have fun skiing. I'm heading up to NorthStar at Lake Tahoe on Sunday to join my daughter and her family. I'm hoping to take the 2 1/2 year old snow shoeing! In three weeks I get a new knee, so maybe I'll be back on the slopes next year!

Is is worth it? Yes! When my brand-new-shiny MS is done and has yet to be torn apart by fellow writers and agents...that's when its worth it. That feeling of accomplishment is just awesome--almost as good as floating down the fresh fallen powder on my board.

It's funny you posted this, because I consider snowboarding my escape. When rejections and my never-to-be-published MS have got me down, I turn to the mountain and my board. That's where I can breath.

Maybe I would have been better off staying in New Zealand, kiwis also make such a lot of effort for a good time. My neighbour in NZ once took five kids, youngest two on 4 hr drive to go skiing for 2 days. Can you imagine all those skiis to put on? Next time I feel gripey I'm going to think of her.

Maybe I would have been better off staying in New Zealand, kiwis also make such a lot of effort for a good time. My neighbour in NZ once took five kids, youngest two on 4 hr drive to go skiing for 2 days. Can you imagine all those skiis to put on? Next time I feel gripey I'm going to think of her.

Good question. I don't know the answer. But what I do know is that I give up a lot of fun stuff for the sake of writing that one more page...and for the sake of not having to deal with guilt for thaking time away from writing.
:)
Glad you enjoyed your fun time in the snow.

Every time I sit to write I wonder if its worth it, then the words come and I know it is. Writing is my mountaintop:)
Have a blast!

Asking if all the effort that goes into writing is worth it, is the same as asking if I'm worth the effort. I may not have believe it a few years ago.
My dream is like every other writer--publication. The more I write, the more I read, the more I fine tune the craft; it becomes a part of my soul and who I am.
Oh and I'm jealous too (skiing). Here I live in the springs and I barely even go. I guess I'm afraid my kids will tumble down the mountain. :-)

I love this connection

I don't ski but I go through that same angst every time I begin the preparations for any holiday trip. Everything seems to take so much effort. Sometimes I'd be just as happy to stay home, but once I'm finally away I always have a good time.

Writing is a different story. It's my escape and I never think of it as effort, even when I'm struggling with revisions.

Hope your weekend is wonderful.

Katy - That's not me in the picture, those are my two daughters! But yes, she is as tall as me now. I knew the day would come but it still feels weird.

Take it from me, it's worth it! You can't put a price on something that's priceless. You're creating a memory and the memory will last a lifetime.

I too have two daughters and one son. All are now adults. Trust me; time passes fast. In a few short years your two daughters will venture out in the world in order to continue their education and paths in life.

The efforts you make now when you take precious time out of your schedules to create special memories will be the times all of you will be able to look back on later in life.

As we all know, nothing worth while comes easily in life. In most cases, it takes a great deal of effort and time to create something special and long lasting.

All of you will now be able to reflect, any time you choose, on the special day you described. I can almost guarantee you won't remember the time, effort and costs involved.

All that will remain is a priceless memory...

This the same way I feel about my writing. It will be worth the effort.

I hope you had a wonderful time and no broken bones.

No regrets here either. I think that your reasons for blogging are sound and inspiring. I'll definitely be re-evaluating the whys of my blogging experience.

Thanks for sharing!

"There are millions of blogs out there and they're mostly written by people who work full-time and earn a living. Are they all slackers because they devote a part of their day to blogging?"

Exactly! I've been puzzled by the negativity toward blogging agents. I hope you do keep blogging.

I love and appreciate the time that you put into blogging! People making those sorts of judgments and assumptions have no right to make you feel guilty about it. Obviously they just haven't thought it through. I've heard some of the backlash against blogging agents and I just don't understand it.

Even though you don't represent my branch of literature, getting to hear from the other side is extremely helpful! You are helping to enlighten and inform, thus ensuring that the new crop of writers achieve the highest quality of work and learn how best to accomplish their goals. Not a waste of time at all! We appreciate it!

Maintaining my blog and watching grow in popularity has only made me feel more legit and kept me motivated ro write more.

Best thing I've ever done.

Lisa

I blog because it's nice that there's one part of my life where the sentence "I'm a writer" doesn't feel crazy coming out of my mouth. It's awesome to connect with the other writers out there.

I've found blogging is a great way to expand social networks and meet likeminded people. My blog is small, and though I've been blogging for a while, I only just focused it to make it a "real" blog. It makes me feel good when people comment, and we strike up conversations.

I am pretty sure I would blog, even if I weren't a hopeful writer. It's simply a good way to stay in touch with people and to express what's on your mind.

I admit sometimes I'm frustrated about the time I have to spend to continue blogging (I'm a slow writer), but I certainly don't regret the benefits -- it's making me a better writer, it ministers at times to those who read, and I make some neat connections as a result. Just one more way to touch outhers' lives through the written word. And that's a very good thing.

I'm glad to hear you're going to keep blogging (and tweeting.) It's funny timing because I just decided to take a blogging hiatus. I was struggling to come up with topics and I'm not in a place where a blog is as important as novel-writing focus. However, I'm still enjoying other blogs, commenting, and tweeting. The water cooler aspect is great - even better in the guilt-free flavor!

By keeping to my commitment of five posts a week, I have learned how to meet my writing deadlines. Also, I can see measurable growth in my writing. I can try new techniques and receive near-instant feedback.

Thanks for concretizing your reasons for blogging and sharing them.

Twitter and Facebook are wonderful, but blogging provides a venue for more introspective thought. It's a great way for me read and share ideas, plus you get to know someone a little more intimately than you normally would otherwise. No regrets here.

I just finished writing a blog post asking the question, "Why are writers self-deprecating?" Well, ahem, I suppose they deprecate agents, too--but perhaps for the same reason(s)--lack of confidence? frustration?

Why shouldn't you blog, for heaven's sake? It's something that means something to you, and a lot of other people enjoy it, or your following wouldn't be so high. Not all agent blogs have as many followers, you know.

I BLOG because it's the easiest way I've found to stay in touch with family across the world, friends across the country, and fellow-writers (and agents) I've met or want to meet. :)

I'm so glad you are continuing your blog. I am a writer and I find it helpful in learning my craft.
I have slacked off on blogging and reading blogs. I've been spending too much time on Facebook. As I move back into blogging and reading blogs I find I get so much enjoyment out of them, especially the blogs of other writers. Networking with like minded people is very encouraging.
Diane Marie Shaw

I like your reasons for blogging, and I'm glad this blog would continue. I keep coming back to it, and go away with good advice each time.

Writing is a therapeutic act, whether you're crafting a short story, novel or a blog.

Blogging is necessary for me, too. I enjoy my creative writing (obviously, or I wouldn't be doing it), but I also enjoy considering the matters that affect real life and blogging about it. Yes, it's a kind of public diary or journal, I guess, but there are loads of benefits.

It's good to get your thoughts down in black and white. It's cathartic. It's healthy. And that's why I will continue to do it.

I love the blogging world since I started my first blog just over a year ago. I decided it would be one where I shared my marketing knowledge (I've done talks for years) as well as general posts about reading, writing and life. The newer one is to get prepared for my first novel coming out.

I really appreciate a professional blog like yours, Rachelle, and I'm so glad you're continuing guilt-free! I've definitely found that the more I interact with other writers on their blogs, the more people follow mine, so our writing world expands.

What surprises me is the number of my fellow writers who not only don't blog themselves, but they don't actively follow other blogs. I wonder if they realise just what they're missing by not making such good cyber connections.

I've learnt so much from cruising the blogosphere. I really appreciate the time committed bloggers put into their blogs. Blogs often mean my day begins with a chuckle, a thought-provoking comment, or something inspirational to fire me up. I would not like to see you stop!

Please do not stop Blogging as we are learning so much from your inspirational blog posts. And it's deeply appreciated!

Since I'm up before the crack of dawn working on my own projects, it's encouraging to observe you and other writer/bloggers equally dedicated to your work. My blog gives as much back to me as I give it, so no regrets. I appreciate how you wrote *Anytime Soon* because it reminds us there's always room to evolve and modify our course. That's a big life lesson I've learned in my own journey. Thanks for all you've taught us here!

I started my blog because I thought it would help my writing career. More than anything else, I continue to blog because it's fun :)

Many people who I've told "I blog", they arch their eyebrow at me and ask "what the hell for?".

First of all, I blog because it's so much fun and it is so gratifying (if you do it right). I'm surprised every day by how many people visit my blog and comment (and not just "hey, nice blog, keep it up", but they really give in-depth replies).

I too enjoy teaching, I guess. I never thought of myself as a (traditional) teacher, but this internet thing, it rocks. I can "teach" people about the subject(s) that I love, and discuss it with people that are interested in it as well.

Also, I saw some other commenters mention this as well - it helps you train yourself in working with deadlines. If you have a set schedule for your posts (for me it's Tuesday's and Fridays, 15:00 GMT+1), you don't have as much freedom to find excuses to slack off.

Thanks for your inspiring blogs, Rachelle!

And I'm willing to bet, most of your clients look forward to reading your blog each morning. So really, if your clients like it, why should you feel guilty?

As far as the whole slacker thing. Yikes! I teach and blog on top of write. I must be an uber slacker. :)

Ooh, I agree with Katie, not to mention most of us, I'm sure this applies to your clients as well, learn A LOT from your blog! It's one reason I was able to land a contract... Oh, wait and an agent!

Your advice helped with a situation that, had I not followed to the letter, I might not be represented at this point.

Great blog, great advice, great, great, great!

Thanks, Rachelle! And don't stop. It's the leading part of my morning, like my coffee, getting up and reading your blog and a few others.

Blogging is the only way I can connect with fellow writers. I would feel completely isolated without the opportunity to connect with people who are following the same path I have chosen. Writing is not like any other career, in that we spend so much time staring at a computer or notebook in a small corner. We'd probably go insane if we couldn't have some human interaction.

Keep blogging. I always get something amazing when I read your blog!

From my point of view, it makes no sense for agents to stop blogging; agents have a readymade audience of writers who will listen to their every word. But regrets? Yes.

What I regret is that blogs don’t connect with fiction readers. I blog often, and I have a few followers and even more people who wander in from time to time, but that doesn’t translate into book sales. Which, quite frankly, I don’t get because I buy their books. But it isn’t just an issue of quid pro quo. The problem is that there is no way for a blog to connect with the people who are actually looking to books as a form of entertainment. If they were buying and reading novels, they wouldn’t be reading blogs.

Obviously, from the comments already listed, there are many of us who are glad you blog. Your insights into the writing and publishing world are priceless--and I especially love your tweets!

Question for you: Is there a reason you are not seeking publication? Other than you are super busy?

the thing about blogging is you get an instant reaction...true you have to wade through the fluff but you will get some honest reactions if you are attracting and seeking those that will give it (for a writer)...your reasons are valid though and i bet it gives an edge in working with your clients...

I read several of the agent/editor/writer blogs in your blogroll, Rachelle, but can't imagine starting the day without reading yours first. I'm continually amazed by the sheer number of topics you've generated here, and by your thorough and unique handling of each one. Thank you!!

I started blogging in the last millennium. Back in those very early days of blogging (1999), most people were keeping personal blogs. That's how mine began, and that's what it has remained: Crazy stories about my life as a writer, wife, mom, and (more and more the older I get--ironic, eh?) daughter. I take an Accidental Hiatus from time to time, but am now blogging again and it feels good.

Thanks for inspiring me to keep the stories coming.

I'm glad you continue to blog, although I don't see how you manage to get it done. I've had to cut back my own posting to two posts a week, and sometimes I get writer's block when I consider that self-imposed deadline. But, like you, I think it's a great way to stay in tune with the writing world.
Besides, I connected with my agent through a contest she held on her blog.

Well, I'm sure glad you blog (and plan to keep doing so!!) because I've learned so much in the short time since I found this and have been following!!

I blog because it gives people in my life the opportunity stay informed with what's going on in our lives. As the wife of a Navy pilot, I'm constantly answering the question, "So where are you now? What are you doing?" My blog is a place where I can answer those questions.

But for me -- and this might be different if I weren't seeking publication -- it's my "casual writing" place, where I can write but not necessarily worry about the flow, the theme, word counts, etc. Maybe I have it backwards? I know a lot of people use their blogs as samples of their writing, and sometimes my blog is that. I just think if that were my sole focus for it, though, it would lose a great deal of enjoyment for me. I need a place to remember that I love writing just for the sake of writing!

I've stepped away from blogging for the last 1 1/2 months. I don't know how potential agents view this choice, but here's why I did it:

I have a very limited amount of time to write each day. One blog post took up that entire time, which meant that I had to jump back and forth between writing my 2nd novel and 2x weekly blog posts. My novel was suffering, and that made me cranky. Cranky mom = bad mom!

I decided to take a break for three months, explained why on my blog, and gave an approximate date for when I will resume blogging. The comments from regular blog readers (both on the blog itself and Facebook) were positive.

I don't know how a potential agent would view this choice, but I felt that it was necessary for the quality of my writing at this point in my career.

That said, I admire those who post frequently. Rachelle, I appreciate all the advice you have given us (me!) over the years.

I feel like I've gotten a real sense of your character here. I love your blog and I'm thankful you are going to stick with it!

Just finished ROOM last night and I thought of you when I came across the part when the interviewer asks Ma about it taking a village (p. 234).

~ Wendy

Many of you raised a good point about how blogging helps you learn to write on a deadline. This is true for me, too. I have deadlines in my work all the time, and blogging is just one of them, but I enjoy the challenge of putting up a post by midnight 5 days a week.

I also forgot to mention that blogging is just plain fun! That's another big reason I continue.

Have a great day!

Your blog is such a success because you know who you are and why you are blogging--your blog has a focus and a purpose, and because of that, it has an eager audience.
I've had success as a blogger, and I've also had blog(s) (please note the plural word there) fail.
I've just brainstormed a new idea for a blog and I think it finally captures my personality, while providing value to readers and reflecting my writing voice. How well it's received will let me know if I'm right.

I appreciate your blog. Reading it inspires me when I'm feeling lonely.

So glad to hear you won't quit blogging. I come here to learn from you and to get that connection as well, even though I have never met you, you share a wealth of information and that alone helps me so much.
I will never stop blogging as long as I can blog. It is the major way I connect in this world of writing with other writers.

"I want to know what it's like for you. I want to be able to represent my authors successfully, with an understanding of what it feels like to be a writer today." This, Rachelle, is what makes you such a successful agent, I think. Your clients sing your praises because they know that you "get them."

I, for one, am super glad you're not going to stop blogging anytime soon. You teach writers more than just publishing. You teach about "life" in the publishing industry. Thank you for that!

Please don't quit blogging. I look forward to your post each day and there's not a day that goes by where I've been disappointed.

I've learned so much. The fact that I am able to comment makes me feel as though I have a small voice in this writing community.

In fact, I'm going to make sure my oldest daughter reads your blog also.

It's informative and a wealth of knowledge; in a way, you're providing a great service.

No regrets for me. It's my way of learning to write for the web, to vent, to be journal of sorts (since I'm not very faithful with my handwritten journal. It's not much of a networking tool for me. With only 10 followers, that ain't much of a network.

Blogging is quickly becoming a favorite pastime for me. I'm relatively new, my blog is only a few months old I think, but regardless I've learned so much through it and encountered some really awesome people so far. It's actually encouraged me to keep up with it. So I probably won't quit anytime soon either. it's too much fun! :)

I love your blog and would be disappointed if you were to discontinue. It's one of the first things I check each day!

Yours is one of my favorites because it is full of information from the other side of the fence. It's nice to hear what it's like from an agents point of view. Honestly, if it weren't for agents who blog I would still be very delusional about the publishing process and everything that comes before, during, and after. Blogs can be a fabulous resource when done properly!

I'm glad you blog. Your posts are so informative and inspiring!

I blog because it's enjoyable (life it short!) and because it's a way to express myself while connecting with other people. I love it and don't think I'll stop anytime soon either.

I'd blog even if there was absolutely no one there to listen, because I find it helps to clear up concepts that are of use to me in writing. I must admit I like the networking aspect of it best, though. This is such a lonely profession; I'll take talking to a live person whenever I can get it, even if it's through exchanging blog comments.

What is wonderful is that you blog for so many of the same reasons we all blog.

Thanks for being there and for showing how much you care :)

I like the way you've identified why you're doing what you're doing. I did want to point out what I think some critics are saying -- The assumption seems to be that agents who blog are doing it in their work hours instead of "real" work, letting their duties slide.

I don't think this applies to you, but as agents are so... um... difficult to decipher? when trying to figure out the best way to further a writer's career (rather than kill it, as a bad agent can do), people get paranoid. It's easy to blame blogging for lack of a sale/late payments/missed phone calls/etc, whether or not blogging is truly at fault.

I hope I'm making sense! Sleep-deprived, here. Anyway, as a pre-published author, I appreciate agents who blog. So thanks for doing such a good job of it!

I love blogging - I thoroughly enjoy reading other's blogs. Aside from the obvious social aspects, I learn a lot from other writers and my friends who blog on other subjects like - quilting. I don't quilt, I'll never quilt, but I like to learn about quilts.
Yeah for blogs! :)

I agree with others who said that blogging helps me meet deadlines. It encourages me to write and when I get feedback it helps to quiet the little voice inside my head for just a moment. I'm still wading in the shallow end of the pool, but I hope to go deeper-meet more people, blog about more things, all while improving my writing in the process.

I am glad because I truly enjoy your posts and am learning so much as a beginning novice writer. I love your encouragement, honesty and frankness. If I did not have sites like this I would have given up and had very unrealistic expectation. Now I am better educated on how to structure my family, work and writing time to fit my life and still find success.

Thank you!

I'm so thankful for you and all the other agents, editors, and writers who take time to blog. Where would the rest of us be without all the wisdom and insight you provide? Thank you a hundred times over for taking time out of your busy life to do this!

For those of us who have followed your blog for a while, or for those who are only just starting out, thank you for continuing to blog! From our perspective it's an excellent resource and an honest perspective on the business. To hear that it also feeds something in you, makes it doubly worthwhile. Thank you for all that you share with us on a daily basis...

I've been considering whether to quit blogging myself... all the usual excuses, including what do I have to say that someone else hasn't already said and said better? But now I KNOW why I blog: just because I want to. It makes me feel good and I'm not twisting anyone's arm to read it, but perhaps just occasionally someone will read it who will get something out of it!

Thanks for your blog post! It made my day.

I began blogging April 2010 because my publisher wanted me to. Now, even if I never publish another book, I'll keep blogging because, like you, I like the social contact; I like people. For me, it's kind of like those "pen pal" days of the Fifties when I was a teenager. But this is so much more fun. Those days it was one by one through snail mail. Today, with the computer you can contact dozens of friends in a day!! Truly amazing.

I enjoyed this post very much. Thank you!

I blog because it's part of being present, contributing to the conversation and to the people around you. Not blogging would be akin to sitting in a room filled with old and new friends and saying nothing.

I love your blog, and I love this post. Your reasons are PERFECT. I may have to quote you in this little book I'm writing.

First, THANK YOU for blogging. You are a teacher and that stands out and you obviously have a heart for writers.

I blog because I love to write and I love people.

Well said. I think there is a general fallacy, when focusing on any activity someone does, to see any deviation from that activity as wasted. Like if a newspaper reports something frivolous, people complain "uuugh, slow news day, why do I bother reading the news?"

But there is value in variety. I wouldn't want an agent that devotes 100% to agenting, because what kind of boring workaholic would that person be? Doing a lot of things helps up the quality of all those things, IMHO.

I hope we never get to busy to SHARE what we know. Seriously. It is like giving back. Eventhough I mostly lurk, I learn much from people in the business. Also a a person who gets paid to write, there are times when my blog is my only truly creative outlet for myself. I would miss it. Press on and THANKS for not stopping!

Needless to say how blog helps so many people around the globe.

I have learnt so much and evolved as a writer. If I had done this on my own, I'd been five years back with my writing. It's what keeps me going.

Thanks...

I blog, tweet, face, & link-in as an outlet for my writing and to keep my social connections alive. This is especially important while I am on my involuntary career sabbatical. Blogging serves as my office coffee station, where ideas are exchanged, people are encouraged, and life is experienced. Come to think of it, this is a nice start on my blog for today.

I think it's ironic that people would ask you when you're going to stop blogging now that you're more successful. I mean, if that's a part of why you're successful, why stop doing it? *scratches head* Granted, blogging does take a lot of time, but usually people overlook all the benefits in order to be negative.

I love blogging. I love sharing my work, making new friends etc. but at the end of the day, when my manuscripts still need editing, and my query letters haven't been mailed I wonder how blogging has helped me. It's not productive, in the tactile sense. All of these friends I have made I haven't even met. And my book still isn't finnished! What am I doing here? I gotta go back to work, quit distracting me!

Just wanted to say that I'm very glad you are still blogging! I've learned a lot from what you share on your blog. Maybe you could add to your list of reasons for blogging the fact that so many people are blessed and encouraged by it. =)

Some of my non-writing friends question why I blog; fellow writers do not. One elderly friend actually reprimanded me, saying I was foolish to expose myself to an unseen world of strangers... that I was contributing to the 'invasion of privacy' problem that is already too prevalent. I see her point, but she can't see mine.

If my need was only to put thoughts into words, then a private journal would serve the purpose. But blogging provides a means of reaching others who share my interests, of communicating with people I would otherwise never get to know. In reading blogs I have easy access to information about the writing industry.

I'm very glad you blog, and that you intend to continue. It's a cliche, I know, but you provide a wealth of information here... so much that if I had to limit my blog reading to only one, this would be that one. Thank you for the time and energy you put into it.

I think it's wonderful that agents blog. They give all of us writers great information and wonderful insight into the writing world. Thanks for blogging!

Blogging has changed my life. Literally. I wouldn't give it up.

And the agents who blog have informed me in ways I don't think I could have been otherwise.

Blogging has changed my life. Literally. I wouldn't give it up.

And the agents who blog have informed me in ways I don't think I could have been otherwise.

I am SO incredibly grateful for you and other agents who blog! There's so much essential information that it's hard to find elsewhere, not to mention all the wonderful encouragement you offer, the chance to connect with other writers, etc.

My own blog is still getting off the ground, so I can't say it's a huge or essential part of my life at this point. But I certainly consider it time well spent.

I just started blogging a few months ago and I absolutely love it. It has given me an outlet for my feelings, my pictures, my words, my rants, my experiences. I really enjoy finding new blogs as well. There are so many creative voices out there. The reciprocity that this medium affords is incredibly gratifying.

I enjoy blogging and I have two blogs, but I'm about to get rid of one of them. I would enjoy being part of a group blog as I think that would have a lot of benefits.

Personally, I'm glad you blog and aren't planning to quite any time soon! I've probably learned more from your blog about the publishing industry than I could have any other way. Thank you!!

That's okay. Us writers hear agents say that aspiring writers that blog are wasting their time. And other say, they definitely should.

I love agents that blog. I get to know them (as much as one can)and I assume lots of them are starting out and gaining notice. Isn't that why we all do it to begin with?

I'm not sure who is saying that blogging agents are committed - no writers I know! Be encouraged!

I have learned more about the publishing world from reading agent's and editor's blogs in recent years than I ever did in college.

I would also think that agents are able to get better-suited queries from readers when they are in constant communication.

Please. Keep blogging!

I enjoy your blog and always feel like a learn something new when I stop by - so thank you for all the time and thought you put into it.

I'm totally with you on the social aspect of blogging/twitter. It's so important to build relationships with others and open up that communication channel.

Your blog has taught me so much about the publishing industry that I consider it an essential read. So, no, it isn't a waste of time.

As for myself, I came to blogging kicking and screaming, but knowing I would need it from a business standpoint. After a year I've found I really enjoy it. It allows me to be creative in a different way than through writing a novel.

I call myself a reluctant blogger. My writing time cuts into my reading time these days, and at first, the blog seemed to suck even more time away from my favorite activity. But I decided to blog about my experience as a reader. A personal book club, if you will. So the blog acts as an extension of my reading life while building a network to support my writing life. Best of both worlds.

I laugh at the humor of God sometimes. I wrote something the exact opposite.
My Struggle with Blogging

http://www.michellesarabia.org/my-struggle-with-blogging/

For me, starting a blog a little over a year ago was a giant leap of faith into unknown territory. Now it's a natural part of my everyday life and I would feel like something major was missing if I didn't blog.It provides me with focus, discipline, connection with other writers, learning and fun. My husband has even become accustomed(trained) to accept me "going into the blogosphere"!

Thanks for all you do to inspire and teach. I'm very happy you will keep blogging.

I'd suspect that a few of those who put down agents who blog are the very people who put down iPads or sports cars as luxury toys and then finally get one.

In short, it's easier to put down someone for doing something you want to do than to actually do it.

But if they helped you reaffirm you reasons to blog, then cool.

Thank you. I also like to see things written from an agents perspective. So I am a very happy camper to read that you will continue to blog.

I’m grateful that you blog Rachelle. I’ve been lurking and reading and learning, and I’ve even started blogging myself. I am currently querying agents, which is a bit scary, so I need all the support I can get! So thanks for being here…all of you!

Ditto! You rock, Rachelle. Keep blogging. And thanks! :)

If it weren't for blogging, I'd be one crazy-arse mountain woman up here in the little cove in my little log house with hardly nary a neighbor, two dogs, a ghost dog, a husband who isn't much for conversation . . . though my characters can keep me entertained for a while, it's real people out there who make feel connected to a big ole wide world.

And really, posting takes but a little while a few times a week. It's the visiting that requires more commitment - and that has its joys if I pick a day to "blog walk" every so often and leave a comment.

I enjoy it. No apologies from me and no pointing fingers at you.

Maybe sometimes people just need to find something to negative yammer-dee-doo-dah-day about all the live-long day! Tweren't that it'd be somethin' else!

Thank you, Rachelle! Your blog contains so much information. I don't know what we'd do without it.

Stand up for yourself, girl!
I try to - and since I'm at the age where I really don't care what other people say about me it's getting very easy to do as I please, especially concerning my writing or crafting.

Rachelle - I love your blog posts. Ever thought of compiling them into a book?

I believe that writers would love to have many of your posts at hand, and you certainly have a following.

Regardless, I thankful that you "waste your time" on us. THANK YOU!

Blogging seems both reasonable and necessary for an agent to do. Maintaining a personal presence on the web, keeping in touch with clients and prospective clients, educating readers about the publishing business...Shouldn't people involved in writing--write?

I learn from reading blogs by agents and by other writers. Were it not for these blogs, I'd feel awfully isolated.

I blog because it's fun. I began casually. Having heard about blogging, I took a course to see what it was. At the end, I found myself with a blog of my own and no idea what to do with it. I posted some essays--that's an old term, but it seems to apply--and discovered I was enjoying myself.

I currently post daily, updates on my WIP, stories from my family or my career in teaching, or my cats, or whatever comes to mind. Some are throwaways; some I'm quite proud of. I revise and polish as best I can; I even go back and tweak posts published months earlier.

Blogging allows me to be creative and increases my fluency.
It also affords me an audience. When people I don't know locate my blog, read, comment, and then come back for more, my self-esteem gets a boost. I feel that perhaps I'm doing something right. If I never become an author, I'll still have claim to the title of writer.

Finally, through blogging, I end the day knowing that, no matter what other plans fell through, I accomplished at least one thing--I produced a finished piece of writing.

Thank you!

I started blogging to build the almighty "platform" in order to attract a new agent (Because my former agent who was the miracle worker who sold my two books) retired. (big sad sigh here) That was more than a year ago. Still no agent but no regrets either. I blog with my grown daughters. They are alternatively hilarious and wise, a fantastic combination. The blog has built our platform (hey, we have 2300 Facebook Fans!) but more importantly, the blog has helped us refine our mission in writing and develop our voice. If we do a. find an agent (truth be told, I haven't actively sought one yet) and b. sell a book, we'll continue to blog. If nothing else, it has helped us to grow as parent and adult children and that's worth its weight in book sales. (Okay it doesn't weigh much but you get the idea.)

Thank you for deciding to keep blogging. Your blog is one of the most useful, informative that I have found. I will continue to read daily and be thankful that you are here to help us all.

Yes, yes, yes, yes and YES! I have to say, my only blogging regret is that I often don't spend enough time blogging. I believe it is an important tool for networking and easing the isolation of a writing life.

As for your blog...I'm thrilled that you blog; in the short time I've been following your blog, I've learned much about blogging, writing, publishing and life. I'd feel a little lost without your blogosphere presence. Thanks for sharing, and keep it up!

What a timely post! I'd been reading those posts too about how agents shouldn't spend time blogging. But I like it. It lets me share my new experiences with others, share what I've learned, help writers feel not so lonely and let them know what I like. Maybe one day I'll run out of things to say, but I sincerely doubt it! (maybe at that point I'll turn into a book blogger)

Over the last year, a number of bloggers I used to follow have given up the activity for various reasons. Those reasons are valid, and I don't begrudge anyone their decision, but I can't help feeling sad as acquaintances drop off the radar.

So thanks for sticking around.

I appreciate that you didn't give in to pressure to stop doing what you love, what challenges you, and that which helps authors grow so much.
Thank you for standing your ground! I know I'll be a better writer because of it.

Thank you.

I find your blogs very informative and I hope you never give up blogging.

I'm so glad to hear this! I was afraid you might stop blogging because it took too much of your time or you might have "better" things to do. But, I'm one of those that rely on your blog to help me feel connected AND gives me great advice. Your blog is also wrapped up in win, inspiration and positivity. Your a great writer and I'm betting your a great agent! Keep blogging because we need that light while we're looking for the end of the tunnel.

Oh my goodness, Rachelle!

You definitely don't need to be defensive at all!

In less than a few years, I bet you those critics of yours will be asking you to help them get plugged into the blogosphere... or maybe wishing they could!

This is the new publishing frontier. How many newspaper men/women have been moved to the side for bloggers?

Where are the ad revenues going now? (If I run across the article again, I'll forward to you.) The revenue has now shifted online.

I'm talking just about the business reasons to blog... without even going into the personal fulfillment and space for creativity!

Apart from the business of blogging -- as a Christian writer, blogging is about connection and being available. As a agent representing work coming from the inner world of authors, blogging is the place to extend a welcome mat, to open a hand of hospitality, encouraging and sobering those who are on the journey. I feel this is what sets you apart, Rachelle. This heart of yours.

And of course, not least of all, blogging is just pure pleasure and fun. It's where we who love words - twirling them, brewing them, and sipping them - can get together. At any time.

Birds of a feather flock together! :)

Here's the article I mentioned. It's WSJ from June 2010:

http://blogs.wsj.com/digits/2010/06/15/internet-is-set-to-overtake-newspapers-in-ad-revenue/

From you and your followers, I realize I'm not the only one that sometimes feels on top of the world, then buried beneath it; both driven and wordless; that I am not inadequate just because I feel inadequate. I am reminded why my blogging is important to me.

Thank you for being there.

Rachelle, I honestly can't think of a better blog I've seen. You manage to cover the same topic (publishing / agenting) day after day, and still keep posts fresh and informative. You're inviting, responsive to your readers, respectful, funny, and provide so much good information that I only glance occasionally at a couple of other publishing related blogs now that Chip MacGregor is off the blogging scene.

I love the immediate interactivity of blogging for a writer. I can't imagine life without it. The reasons you gave for blogging are outstanding. Thanks for yet another great post.

Lord, on behalf of everyone who's been blessed by Rachelle's blog and advice and skills, thank You for calling her to this place. Please equip her with wisdom and discernment, and would You please bless her tenfold for how she's blessed us.

Thanks Rachellle, for sharing your journey. I am glad the best outwins the worst :)

This is brilliant, and I'm now a regular reader. I'm curious about having to turn down good writers with strong ideas - do you explain why you need to turn them down?

I'm just beginning to explore the literary world and met a VP of a publishing house on Twitter (where I found you actually). He asked for a pitch, I sent three.... he asked for a manuscript of 1. While I work on the chapters and outline for him (our compromise, since the book isn't written yet), I wonder whether an agent is something I should be bringing into the mix now, or if, because I've found the publisher, am I 'ok' now?

I know this is a huge question, and perhaps 1 that I should engage you before I can ask, so I hope that I'm not overstepping boundaries here! :D

No disagreements, just have over 20 finished books to be put forward. I hear all the time that you dont need a complete book to find an agent; I started a couple of years ago writing and have not stopped yet. I guess my question is that with so many projects before me how do I avoid running into people who want to pervert their prices to get me published? I'm almost ready to just buy a printing machine and binding machine they are going so high.

No disagreements, just have over 20 finished books to be put forward. I hear all the time that you dont need a complete book to find an agent; I started a couple of years ago writing and have not stopped yet. I guess my question is that with so many projects before me how do I avoid running into people who want to pervert their prices to get me published? I'm almost ready to just buy a printing machine and binding machine they are going so high.

Thanks for sharing your journey with us. The detailed information is outstanding and useful. May you be blessed as you continue to bless your followers.

aawwww! sweet post. thanks for sharing!

"The worst" sounds quite tough, even more challenging than writing. Take good care of yourself.

I ♥ your ♥ stories.

You are great at what you do. The information you provide for your followers on a daily basis is invaluable.

It's wonderful that you've found a job that you truly love so early in life.

Awesome post. Thank you for the background information. It is quite evident that you are passionate about your career, thank you for that as well.

I and numerous others are glad you made the switch. We've been blessed as a result.

Awesome to get a peek into your pivotal decision to become an agent. I thought you'd been at it longer, you've done so well in so short a time! That's amazing! =)

Susan Bourgeois... ha ha ha ha ha ha. Thanks for the compliment but you don't have to work so hard to make me feel good. Just fyi, by no stretch of the imagination is my current age considered "early in life."

I love this post, you spring chicken, you.

I've always wondered what happens when an agents client list becomes too full. Are you at that point? Do you still trickle in a few new authors a year?

And by the way those of us in the same age bracket would beg to differ, you are plenty in the early stages of life.

Thanks for posting this. I decided last year after being in college for my English Associates I wanted to edit other peoples writing. I'm currently seeking my BA, but this post gives me inspiration.

An agent vibe, huh? Well, I'm almost positive I have the writer vibe going pretty strong. . .as do most people who hang out here.:)

I'm glad Greg talked you into doing it...because you're the BEST agent there is.

I was expecting a story with a rabbit hole. Have a look around, are you certain there is no rabbit hole? Have you looked everywhere?

Rachelle, I hope you enjoy your dream job for many years to come.

Just wondering what your average reading time is on a full manuscript that you've requested?

thanks

This beats most "how I got the call" author story I've ever heard. Love your story & love even more that you shared it with us!!! (And I ditto Anne Lang Bundy's prayer!)

This sounds that you have a great plan for your life. I wish that you succeed in all things that you wanted to be. I am sure that you can make it.

And for the record, I consider myself a very lucky agency president to have Rachelle on the team. She works hard and smart, is caring for her authors, professional, funny, loyal...a dream collegue.

AND you find time to write a great blog. So good in fact that you give me ideas to bounce off. I put a link to my inspiration here in my last post.

http://publishersearch.wordpress.com/2010/08/19/why-starting-the-next-novel-before-the-first-one-is-sold-is-a-good-idea/

AND you find time to write a great blog. So good in fact that you give me ideas to bounce off. I put a link to my inspiration here in my last post.

http://publishersearch.wordpress.com/2010/08/19/why-starting-the-next-novel-before-the-first-one-is-sold-is-a-good-idea/