COURAGE

 I'm really not one for inspirational messages, but this was one I picked up at a thrift store as I was starting my journey as a writer. Plus, I really liked the picture. Who doesn't love a penguin? This image doesn't do it justice. The colors are deeper and richer than they appear here. 

It says: Courage is daring to take that first step, or a different path. It is the decision to place your dreams above your fears. 

At the time, I was hoping to quit my day job and write novels for a living. That never happened. Let's face it, making a living as a writer is near impossible unless you are Stephen King or Nora Roberts or a celebrity with a tell all book. There just aren't as many publishing houses offering new writer contracts with lucrative advances as there used to be. And being single, I depended on a steady income.

But, I still had the dream of writing and publishing a novel. And against all odds, I did.

 I recently found this picture after unpacking some boxes from my move. I immediately placed it on my desk. I want to write more novels, but somewhere along the line I lost my courage. Now is the time to reclaim it. 

FRIDAY STIR FRY - Direction

https://morguefile.com/

I've been giving a lot of thought lately about the direction this blog should take. I think I would like it to be more than just my rambling thoughts. The problem is, I'm not an expert at anything, except - according to my son - griping.

I've had many jobs in my life, but not a profession. Well, except the few years I was a dental assistant. But, let's face it, who wants to read a blog about that?

I've worked in a Hallmark shop, a hot dog stand, a thrift store, and a factory. I've worked at Bass Pro Shops - headquartered in my home town - twice. For the last seventeen years, a government desk job, pushing papers. I've had flea market booths.

None of those jobs make me qualified to hand out wisdom or advice about anything.

Of course, I've written and published a book. One book. Well, two if you count my short story collection. By no means does that make me an expert.

If you have any suggestions for this blog, I would greatly appreciate it.