I’m in the final stretch of revisions before sending the middle-grade manuscript back to my agent so the book can go on submission in the new year. The work feels both like a blessing and a curse. I’m grateful to be able to focus on something besides the horrific reality of our government’s complicity in the genocide in Gaza, but also sometimes feel selfish for escaping reality. Deep inside, I know that’s silly, and not only because the story I’m revising focuses on righting societal wrongs.
I also realize it’s silly to begrudge myself my creative outlet because we all need a refuge, whether it’s via the art we create or connection to the natural world.
July 20, 2023
In that spirit, I’m offering this Painted Lady on a sunflower. I photographed this in July and gazing upon their interconnectedness replenished my spirit as soon as I found it in my files. Maybe this image will do the same for you.
Tracy Abell 
Hi, that Painted Lady photo sue has restorative properties with color and essence.
best wished with the final revisions
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Hello! Thank you much for sharing in the natural beauty and for the good wishes. Sending good wishes back to you and yours. š
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š
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Good luck with your book, Tracy!
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Appreciate your support, Becky! I’m still not finished and am staggering toward the finish line. Hope your writing projects are going well!
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I keep plugging away at my writing, Tracy, and my critique group makes it all possible!
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This is very belated, Becky, but I wanted to say: Hooray for plugging away AND critique groups!
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Thank you, Tracy!
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What a stunning photo! Congrats on making headway with your book š During these crazy times, we must each find our own source(s) of refuge to stay sane.
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YES to finding our refuge, whatever that might be. I hope you’re taking care of yourself, Rosaliene. I thought of you when I read this Twitter thread: https://twitter.com/TamanishaJohn/status/1736444903666704878
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