Thursday, April 23, 2009

Deadline

Well, in case you were wondering, it's April 23rd and my story was mailed yesterday. Hooray! It had to be postmarked by today and it's just going to Portland. Now, Portland is only 100 miles away, as the crow flies. (I love that saying, "as the crow flies") From Astoria, that envelope left yesterday in a big, white truck at 6:00 pm (so they say). It takes two hours to get to Portland, but who knows what post office it will end up at. It may take a day or two for that envelope to get handed off from person to machine and back again, getting stamped and perhaps folded up a bit along the way. Into another truck with a friendly postperson who probably will be wearing one of those ranger-like brimmed hats and baggy shorts. They'll pack up their bags and head into Portland, after stopping for coffee (of course). That envelope will be delivered to the suite number it's addressed to and will lay on someone's desk for an unknown amount of time. Finally, someone will notice it and say, "Hey, here's another unknown writer hoping we'll love their story and award them first prize." Or maybe second, or even third. (The third place prize will almost cover the entry fee - it's a small contest.) The envelope will be opened, the check given to accounts receivable, the package divided up between the three judges that will be deciding who the winner is. I had to send three copies so I'm assuming there are three judges. Of course, this is all speculation. Who knows what journey my story has taken. The good news is that I retain ownership of my writing (it's in the rules!) Which means that I can use it again anywhere I want.

The main thing is that I DID IT! After posting about the contest, I knew I had to achieve my goal. Or else risk being scolded by my husband (or perhaps an encouraging blog friend.) In my opinion, it doesn't matter if I win or not; to me, I have already won my own contest. And it feels good.

5 comments:

jugglingpaynes said...

Maybe the post office should use more crows. :o) I wouldn't really trust a crow with a letter though. Crows like to make stops along the way as well, gab with their friends, tease hawks, etc. They might not be very responsible.

Hmmm...maybe I need to do another life lesson from watching animals.

Good Luck Kate!

Peace and Laughter,
Cristina

Leingang Family said...

Congrats and good luck!

Mama Self said...

Way to go! I just don't seem to have enough time to get things like that done, so I admire your perseverance.

Thanks for the sweet wishes for Trey and the birthday wishes for Lee. Yes, indeed, it was much better to celebrate his birthday together as a family instead of him being in Iraq this time!

Have a wonderful week, blog-friend.

Paula Vince said...

Whatever the outcome, it's satisfying just to watch it slip into the post.
I wish you all the best with it.
Blessings,
Paula

Cat said...

YAY!!!

Mission accomplished - well done!

C x