January 12th 2023. So this week I joined A Coven! It is a gorgeous group of women (led by the fabulous Iona Russell www.ionarussell.as.me) on a mission to complete a "Soul Goal" in 90 days. My Soul Goal is to get the first draft of my book to my publisher.

As you might have guessed by the lack of news, I did not win the Hay House contract. In all honesty, this was not a surprise, but it still knocked my confidence a little. I had at least hoped for an 'honourable mention' :-). Anyway, onwards and upwards, I have been writing steadily over Christmas. I will self publish and maybe Hay House will realise they missed out and track me down for a second edition (I am joking by the way!).

Actually, the process has made me realise that I just want to get our story out. I believe Grieving to Growing will help people who are bereaved. I read a gorgeous similar book, by Emily Graham - "Confessions of Childloss" in one sitting on New Years Eve, 2022. There were huge similarities in Emily's experience of losing her son, Cameron, aged 7 and our experience with Mary-Lou. It reminded me of the REAL reason why I am writing this book: when Mary-Lou first died, I remember searching for books to which I could relate and not feel so alone. There are many (and I feel like I have bought most of them); if my story can help just one person in the same way that other stories have helped me, I will be grateful. Looking back at the video I was required to record for Hay House, whilst it explains the book, it is a bit too "market-y" for my liking. In the Coven this week, we were encouraged to remember the 'why' behind our Soul Goal. Writing this blog has reminded me of my 'why' and for that I am grateful.

I think I sound way more jovial in this post than I feel. It is 3 years since Lou died tomorrow. Writing has definitely helped me as has reading Tarot. So, I am off to make a cup of tea and settle down for the evening. I will aim to post on here each week of my 90 day Coven membership and would love to hear any feedback you have about the book.