Run for the Roses

Last summer, I had completed about five chapters of my book project – an idea in my heart/mind for about four years.  Since I was finally making some progress, my thoughts turned to the day the book would be completed (hopefully within a year or so), and along with that came questions about publishing.  I called my friend, Brenda, and asked for advice.  She suggested that I attend a writing seminar – Dan Miller’s Write to the Bank.  Many things came together that allowed me to attend the seminar (that’s another story).  While at the seminar I learned about a writing contest.  When I returned home, within a couple of days, Brenda came over for an update on the seminar.  I mentioned to her about the contest and that I would like to enter the contest to test the waters, but my book was far from complete; and the contest had an entry deadline of January 15.  I work two jobs, and that seemed an impossible feat.  She paused, and then firmly said, “It will be a push, but you can do it.  You have nothing to lose.”

I consider myself to be a storyteller, and my book is a series of very short stories about my life.  One of my favorite songwriters was also a storyteller, Dan Fogelberg.  I have adopted the chorus of one of his songs as my theme for completing my book because, you see, it is so fitting.  I have completed my book with what seemed to be an impossible deadline:

Run for the Roses

Next Tuesday, I am taking a day of vacation and will be officially submitting my manuscript in the contest – I’ve joined in the dance.  And again, I am so grateful for yet another encouraging friend.  Is there something you long to do?  Do you need to join in the dance? Perhaps you, too, need a little encouragement. http://www.MidLifeDoOver.com/