Writing has been a part of my life since the days of amateur scribbling on wide-lined paper and super huge pencils.  Something about writing back then made me feel empowered.  Or maybe it just made me feel grown like the big kids.  Either way I liked it.

My first real experience writing about  my thoughts and feelings was around age 10.  I had seen a crimson red diary with a shiny gold lock and key in the local discount store.  I wanted it.  I never told my mother, but I suspected she knew when I’d traipse off to the school supply area and she’d find me there  starring at this little book.  Sure enough, for my 10th birthday I got the diary.  I immediately started writing about whatever was significant at the time (maybe cartoons or whatever teen celeb I had a crush on).  I was excited and made it my business to make sure that each date listed had an entry.   I wish I had that diary now.  Unfortunately it was lost when my family moved years ago.  It would be interesting to read about the things that seemed so important then. Read More >