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Ever since I could remember, I've wanted to write.  Being a die-hard Stephen King fan in my youth, I aspired to publish a best-seller.  I dabbled a bit in college, and was encouraged by my composition instructor to "continue to write...not just for yourself, but to share", and that I "have a unique and personal style.  Unlike your peers, you have a style that's both humorous and sophisticated". 

Long before the days of digital records, I suffered a minor setback when my hard work was accidentally thrown away in the trash after lending my assignments to a friend who shared my passion.  I hadn't written anything in twenty five years, except the occasional "let me tell you how I feel about your shitty service" letter that rewarded me with both free product and extreme satisfaction. 

The fire was ignited again when I had the opportunity to immerse myself in a writing class at Bucknell University.  My world grew after being exposed to different avenues for writing--short stories, indexes, creative non-fiction, five word stories, shorty-shorts, and poems (audible gasp!).  At the age of 45, I was the oldest in the class with the least experience.  I always believed letting someone read your writing was like letting them look into your soul.  The only thing between the reader and the writer was a thin piece of paper and some graphite.  When I learned that we would be work-shopping our pieces, I knew I would feel exposed and vulnerable.  I expected to be out of my league, with no opinions to contribute.  I thought I would be intimidated by the process.  I now embrace that feeling.  It’s proof I am still alive.  I now want to share my writing.  I yearn to feel my breath catch and my heart beat faster in anticipation of feedback. 

I started this blog against strong advice from a published author who read my work and saw something promising in my prose.  To quote, "Why give something away you can get paid for?"  Although, the thought of earning a living using my passion is everyone's dream, I'd have to admit sharing for free is better than not sharing at all.  She also said blogs are a bit passe.  I've never been one to follow the crowd, so let's give it a shot anyway.  

I hope that you enjoy and check back often.  I have so much to share.  Please, Follow My Read.  

P.S.  Many thanks to T.L. for believing in me and S.H. for encouraging me.


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