WNW: Celebration

Before today's Word Nerd Wednesday, a couple of housekeeping items:

1) I haven't posted as much as usual lately, because I'm under the gun on several deadlines. (Among them: the edits for Paige, my book in the Newport Ladies Book Club! Yeehaw!) (Oh, and be sure to LIKE the Book Club Facebook page!)

2) When those deadlines are over, I'll have a busy week with the conference I attend and typically speak at every year. I'm teaching a table at the Publishing Primer workshop plus two classes. Which means busy, busy, busy.

These two items mean that I'll return to my regular posting schedule after that.

TODAY we look at words for happiness and celebration, because I got some great news this afternoon. (See below.)

Gala

As in, the awesome place where I totally celebrated last May when I received a certain award.

Fete

A lavish, often outdoor party. Sign me up!

Carnival

This one's more for the kids. As long as there aren't huge crowds, I'm happy to show up.

Fest

One of my favorite words. I use it when describing all kinds of fun activities. Writing fest. Chocolate fest. Reading fest. You get the idea.

Jubilee

This sounds awfully fancy, like I need an evening gown.

Fiesta

Pinata, anyone?

Two fun related words that apply:

Merrymaking

Here's one that totally fits today's situation. I'm excited and will celebrate through merrymaking, which may or may not include a goofy dance. I hope it doesn't look as goofy as Elaine.

and (not kidding):

Jollification

This goes back to the early 1800s, and it's an Old West, mountain man term. I love it! I think I'll incorporate it into my vocabulary.

So WHY am I'm excited today? What's with the merrymaking and jollification?

The sequel to Band of Sisters has been accepted for publication!!!

It'll be called Band of Sisters: Coming Home, and it's slated for release pretty soon: in January!

This means I'll have two books out soon: Paige and then Band of Sisters: Coming Home.

(Can I hear a booyah?)

The writer's journey is fraught with bumps and bruises and well as the awesome vistas. To reach a summit (or increasingly more difficult-to-reach summits, as the case is), you have to climb long mountain paths.

The last couple of years have been tough; it's felt like I've been climbing and falling down cliffs, making little progress.

And now this. I'm feeling great about what's lined up and the projects I'm currently working on.

Serendipitously (I'm claiming that's a word), we're going out for Thai food with my parents tonight. Sounds like the perfect way to celebrate to me.

Oh, and a final celebration-related word:

Hooray!