It’s been a real process, finding what I really wanted to say, if I had anything worth writing that other people might want to read.
Back over at Blogger, I originally envisioned a political blog. Makes me laugh now. I guess I was reading too much Powerline back then. But I discovered quickly that was way too labor intensive. Then I figured I should keep a mommy blog and write about being a mom, a homeschooler, blah blah. But I got bored with that fast. When I sit with Dell, I’m looking for a break from all things mommy. The occasional mommy rant makes it here, or thoughts regarding my spiritual life are posted, but for the most part, I’m content writing about books, writing, and reading.
Which brings me to my big news. And I’ve been waiting over a month to say it, but held off because I was waiting for the link to go with it.
I won a short story contest.
First place bragging rights, $100, and I’m published in an on-line magazine, Mom Writers Literary Magazine, also coming to my mailbox in a real touch-me, frame-me, hang-it-on-the-wall glossy magazine.
I feel like I’m on my way.
Blogging is nice, fun and something to keep me off the street, out of trouble, a distraction. But, let’s be honest here: does the world really need this blog? No. The Internet is overrun with personal blogs, book blogs, writer’s journals. I could delete books are our friends and go about my way, reading, keeping thoughts to myself.
I’m happy my blog-keeping has evolved into something more. Motivated me to the next step. For me the next step is fiction. My own fiction. Winning a short story contest is a great kick in the pants. I can do this.
I can.
So, less blogging and more fiction writing, learning the craft. I’m excited to see what the next two years has for me.
Congratulations, Monica!!!!!! I just hope the fiction writing does a good job of keeping you off the street and out of trouble.
Keep us “posted” on how it goes.
I just read your story. It was wonderful. I enjoyed how you enmeshed such a big issue in an ordinary day. Writing fiction is such a foreign idea to me.
Oh, yeah. You have to keep your blog going, at least a bit, so people can learn more about you.
thanks, friend. writing does keep me busy, and I have no plans to quit updating here. i love the community aspect of blogging.
Warmest congratulations.
Congragulations!! What is really exciting at least to me, is that I want to go the same place. My idea for my blog was just to begin to develop a writing style. To see if I could tell a story or make a point with a clarity that others would understand.
I am very excited for you, because hopefully down the road, I can say the same thing. “I can!” I will have taken courage and gone for it, because I knew someone else who did.
Hey M – Way to go! I told you didn’t I…
I came away from your comments with this- The surge in Blogs will provide a unique footprint for society in this timeframe. If the trend wanes, at least there will be some evidence of a life in these times.
As a photo album is a keepsake for children in generations to come and so too will be the personal footnotes of life captured in a blog. I can’t think of a better gift to give to your children, especially when they get along in life and want to get in touch with thier childhood.
It’s pretty nifty to look back at how you grew as a person also and your revalation of the purpose of this blog in your comments was introspective I’m sure.
Keep up the good work – your progress is obvious and we’re rooting for you.
Monica,
Congratulations! I think that’s wonderful!
Congratulations! That is awesome! I am working on a couple of things and hope to be published before the year is out. Only God knows if that will happen or not! In His timing. Good luck with future stories.