Steadfast dreamers

I'm happy to be so close to finishing my first novel. Thisclose to the peak of that arduos, rocky mountain I've been climbing; and after years of plotting, writing, and editing, I am nearly ready to submit it. The odds of me being signed by an agent and that book selling are slightly better than my odds of winning a Powerball jackpot.

Two people I love are now thisclose to realizing their own dreams. Their aspirations are much different than mine, but the same in that they've been planning, saving, and budgeting over the course of several years. Years of hoping and waiting for their dream to come true.

Some days I'd rather be sleeping than writing. Sometimes I feel guilty for taking time for myself to write instead of spending it with my babies. Every now and then I even question the real worth of my work at the computer, wondering if I'll ever be a novelist.

Times like that, there is one thing that keeps me going, and it's as simple as a resolute belief that I can do more, have more, be more, for my family.

If I leave my children with one lesson, I'd like them to spend their lives learning, searching, and reaching. Whether they aspire to be teachers, singers, writers, or to live out their days traveling the country in an RV, I will teach them to always hold steadfast to their dreams. Because no matter who you are or what you want, sometimes that is all we need; just an unwavering faith in our dreams.

Ready, set, go!

Today was a gorgeous 70-degree day. Fabulous, considering it's March in St. Louis. As I watched the dog sunbathing out on the deck, it made me anxious for summer, and most of all, the swimming pool.
I love swimming, but it seems the worst part is always that initial jump in. I'll usually dip a toe in, or a foot in, to test the waters first. Of course, the water is usually cold, so that makes me all the more hesitant to jump.
That's kind of how I feel about the internet. I'm old-fashioned, a pen & paper kinda gal. I finally started a Facebook page (long after my mom did!), though I still don't understand Twitter. I can surf the internet with the best of 'em, but I've never actually put myself out there. Until now.
After much thought, worry, and hesitation, I've decided to pull my toes from the water, plug my nose, and dive right in. So here I am, happily blogging. I may not swim the fastest, but I took the plunge. And now that I'm in, I have to admit, the water's just fine.