Another busy summer week around these parts! We were at the pool all day today, and I looked at my husband and said, “I am so happy right now.” And it's true. I had some down days this past week, as I usually have right when I'm about to launch a book. I always feel like no one is going to read or buy the books I work so hard on, and then I have a few days where the thought makes me really depressed. It's okay, though. This happens to me EVERY TIME I write and publish a new book. :) I have doubts just like everybody does about their career. Even when I want to give up, I know the feeling will fade and I'll be stronger on the other side. These are the things that make me stronger. Like I said to my friend, Tracy, in a text, “I'll shake it off, take a deep breath, and move on.” And I did!

My busy week kept me from wallowing too much. I got two teasers up for SUMMER HAIKUS, formatted and submitted a new Kami No Sekai short story to Amazon (more on that tomorrow!), took my kids to the pool, exercised, napped, read, and knit! I really love summer so much. I feel alive and (mostly) in good spirits.

Let's look back on the photos…

My kids have become obsessed with these little things called Shopkins. The youngest got a bunch for her birthday.

I took a walk and hooped outside. My hoops are looking nasty so it's time to peel all the tape off and start something fresh soon!

I'm trying to make my life as balanced as possible and including knitting a few times a week is helping me not burn out.

My husband and I went on a date last night! We got our regular babysitter to come put the kids to bed, and we went to a local restaurant, ate awesome food (this was halibut over sun chokes with cucumbers and buttermilk), and had lovely drinks. It was such a nice night out, and we had the chance to talk about whatever we wanted to talk about without kids around.

And I finished off the week at the pool. We were there all day! The kids were in and out of the water and played with all of their friends. I worked on the outlines for two novels and a new short story, read my kindle, went in the water, and ate ice cream. Really, the best way to end the week.

This week, I get to announce another short story, two more teasers for SUMMER HAIKUS, and hopefully get the final file up to Amazon. I also hope to get the new paperbacks for SUMMER HAIKUS and FACE TIME, and I'd like to set up a Goodreads giveaway. Lots to do!

Have a great week everyone!