So after 2 months of sending out queries I finally got a HANDWRITTEN note from an agent!!!  I almost passed out.  They requested to read the first 20 pages.  I, of course, went directly to my laptop, opened up my manuscript and began ruthlessly reading it again.  I even had my daughter proofread it.  She may only be 12, but she reads at high school level.  Therefore she's my target audience.  She refuses to read the entire manuscript until it gets published, but she agreed to read the 20 pages for me.  After a few "discussions"  on what she liked and what she thought I should change we compromised and found a way to make the pages perfect.  Of course I know the agent, or should I say assistant, will probably find tons of things wrong with it I feel confident that it is almost perfect.  That being said I hope I'm not being too optimistic.  I am loosing sleep now that I have mailed it off.  I know it could be weeks or even months before I hear back from them, but I eagerly rush to the mailbox every day to see if I have something.  Meanwhile the rejection letters keep coming in.  It's hard not to get discouraged but I'm trying to keep my chin up.  My daughter tells me that some one is out there that will love my book and make me an offer any day now.  I love her for telling me that.  She has no idea how much it helps.  Well just wanted to tell those of you out there still waiting for that ever important response from an agent to keep their hopes up.  It will happen.  I'll keep you posted on any feedback I get from the agent.  Wish me luck.