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Linda Berlin's avatar

Thanks, Marta. What an essay…That pie looked amazing. I would binge on that pie to feel better. And the doggie happiness made me smile. Yes, we need feedback and it isn’t always what we want to hear. I just got some feedback on my debut novel. My critique partner was worried I would be discouraged, but I am excited instead. I think it’s how we take feedback that can make all the difference…It’s a challenge, yes, but it’s all about improving the writing, something we ALL need. Hang in there! I do feel your pain.

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Marta Lane's avatar

That pie was tasty! And Goose brings so much comfort and joy to our home, I’m glad she gave you a smile! And congratulations on taking feedback so well! But you’re a straight up badass, flying commercial jets and all. I’m sure feedback is nothing compared to delivering hundreds of people safely to their destination! Thank you for reading, and for your thoughtful comment.

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JR Hampton's avatar

This SO resonates, especially after the election. I've started celebrating every little thing - even with a gold star (those actually happen to be one of my favorites). Our brains deluge us with so much negativity, as does the world at the moment, that those little acts are important to help stem the tide (and balance). I believe that not only do they bring goodness and gratitude into our own lives, that the energy spreads to others. It all counts. :)

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Marta Lane's avatar

I love the perspective to continually bring goodness and gratitude into our own lives, because it all counts. Thank you Jacqueline!

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Megan Walrod's avatar

So important to celebrate our milestones! And I love all the different hedonistic ways you're celebrating your milestones with your novel progress - as a fellow hedonist and debut novelist - I get it and how important it is to bring in that play and pleasure! And I love this: “When you lead a self-defined life, you have to be the one to put a stake in the ground and say: ‘This is important. This is a big deal!’ If you don’t add noise and visibility through celebration, the process goes by unnoticed—not just by others, but also by you.” YES!

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Marta Lane's avatar

Yes! Such a great quote!

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Rachel Stone's avatar

Another beautifully done, inspiring essay. I'm so happy you celebrated your milestone--it's so important to take a minute and recognize them or else the rest can overwhelm. Keep celebrating as you keep clearing those milestones!

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Marta Lane's avatar

Thank you, Rachel! The rest sure can overwhelm. Sometimes I feel like I’m ice climbing. Your support helps me plant my pick axe and heave myself up another step!

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Jen Sinclair's avatar

This is a wonderful perspective. Thank you for sharing your journey with us!

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Marta Lane's avatar

Thank you for reading and restacking my journey!

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Daniel Lane's avatar

I’ve got your back baby! Ready to celebrate every milestone with you!! I’ve read every draft of your book, and it just gets better and better every time through! You’ve got this!

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Marta Lane's avatar

Thank you sweetheart. I couldn’t do it without you! ♥️ thanks for reading my early, shittier drafts. You know that’s true love!

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