Writing is a Lot Like Running

It's true. Both can be a lot of hard work or a lot of fun. It just depends on your perspective.

Sometimes just getting started is the hardest part and it can feel a little intimidating.

How do I begin?
Where do I begin?
How do I prepare?

There are so many questions, one might even be "who do I ask?"

You have to set goals and start out easy or you might get overwhelmed.

I know from experience--at least when it comes to running. I used to be a "runner". I know, most people wouldn't believe that from looking at me now. But back before I had kids, I used to run at least two miles a day, 3 to 4 times a week. Then I had kids and my entire world changed. Their goals became my goals.

Well, now the kids are grown and it's time to get back to a few of my own goals: one is running and one is writing.

Currently I just started training for the Shamrock run here in Portland, which benefits Doernbecher Children's Hospital. And, I'm also trying to get a manuscript published. Both take a lot of focus, concentration and commitment--plus, a lot of hard work. But, as I reach each goal, I have a sense of satisfaction.

And, I may never win a marathon but at least I'll complete one. And, my manuscripts will be finished. There's joy in the journey--we just need to remember that.

The Men Who Stare at Goats

By Jon Ronson

I'm reading this true story about the U.S. Military Government and secret service special operations. This isn't the usual type of book I would choose to read but I have a B.S. in psychology and a friend thought I would be interested. The title was enough to make me lose interest but when she recommended it, well, I had to give it a chance.

I think it's fascinating - in a very Area 57 type of way. I'm not all the way through it yet. But I think it is very interesting. It's been made into a movie - and I'm thinking about watching that but I think it might be hard to take this book into the silver screen mode. Anyone seen the movie-with George Clooney, Jeff Bridges, Ewan McGregor, Kevin Spacey and the Goat, someone must have seen it...?

Are there any books you've read that you didn't think you'd like - but did?

Living Wall - Earth-friendly Friday

I love to garden – who doesn’t like to spend their weekends knee deep in dirt?

I look forward to the flowers and the fun. I scan seed catalogs starting in January, then I plan my planting, picking and then preparing some yummy homemade meals. There's no better way to cook than to go outside and grab some goodies right out of my front yard garden to whip up some homegrown goodness.

I use my front parking strip to plant flowers and veggies in raised beds and I’ve been doing it for over 20 years. But I never thought of creating a living wall. If you want to see more photos click on the "living wall" and scroll down to take a look. If you live in Portland, take a trip downtown to Modera and check it out for yourself.

I think this will be my next project-or maybe my husband's.

How about you? Any innovative ideas about gardening you’d like to share?

Answer to Riddle for Thursday

Answer: God doesn't think he's a Federal Court Judge.

RIDDLE for Thursday

QUESTION: What's the difference between God and a Federal Court Judge?

Come back at 3:00 to see the answer.

Answer to Word for Wednesday

Answer: favorable

If you'd like to see more, check it out here.

Word for Wednesday - a game for Writers

Word: Unpropitious

Take a guess - please add your guess to "comments" and then come back around 3:00 to see if you were right.