I used to think that to become a published author, writing that first draft was the hardest part of the climb. Now I understand that even though I have penned the rough drafts of three novels, attended online courses and in-person conferences, read writing books, listened to podcasts, had critiques from agents, authors, and writing partners, and worked with a book coach for six months, I'm not sure that I've reached base camp yet. But I KNOW I am going to climb this damn mountain. Right now, I keep hiking up the ridge in front of me, thinking that once I crest it I'll be at the top, but each time there has been yet another ridge. There may be many more ridges before I summit, but each one makes me a little stronger and prepares me a little better for that final climb.