I woke up early this morning, made my coffee and built a fire in the wood burning stove to warm the house up. The last few weeks literally had put me in a tail spin. I had to leave my job of seven years, because my husband got a job in Washington State that would give him a better opportunities for the future. It's one of those things you really have to think about. I asked him when this job offer came up, 'Years from now are you going to kick yourself for not taking the opportunities that could lead potentially into a better life, or do you think you'll be happy staying somewhere you already know you've reached your potential?'
We both knew that if he didn't take the opportunity, we'd always wonder if we had made a mistake. Our friends thought he'd be crazy to not take this chance, so we did.
He left for Washington State, rented a house and started training for his new job. I gave my notice at my job then Nicole and I waited until the semester ended, so that she could finish her classes and not leave mid year. The day finally came and the movers arrived. They packed everything up. I said my last goodbyes to a life I sincerely thought I'd never leave and we were off. (I am going to miss a number of people I worked with, my friends, bosses and co-workers. They were my working family, where we worked, laughed, cried and supported each other through all the ups and downs. Yes, I'll miss that closeness we had.)
In the whirlwind of moving and trying to get settled during Christmas and New Years, I really hadn't put much thought behind what I'm going to do for a job. I have to work, so there is no choice in me staying home. The only thing I know, is that there is more opportunity for jobs here, so I believe I'll find one that I will be happy with very soon.
I sit here now and think of what last year has brought us and am pleased to say that we had a great year. We took jaunts to Vegas once in a while to get away on weekends,and went on drives to see the beautiful country of Utah.
I will miss being able to photograph one of the most beautiful states I have ever seen. Zion is spectacular, the high desert landscape and the eye catching skies with it's openness and beautiful colors of the morning dawn and evening sunsets will always be etched in my memories.
Who knew that clouds with the right lighting could be so awesome. Many times there are no words to describe what you see, you are in the moment and you just have to take a deep breath and just take it in. It's a force of power to be reckoned with as it fills your being with something akin to hope and inspiration. Many times I turned completely around in the midst of a those moments and took joy that I was part of those settings. I felt like I was in a painting forever imprinted in those moments in time.
Going on the cruise to Alaska was an experience all of us enjoyed. Joining my sisters was not only special, it was an opportunity to spend quality time doing something together that all of us could take memories from and re-tell the stories to our children and grandchildren.
I especially loved taking photos on the cruise of everything, seeing some of the most beautiful rugged country in the world took my breath away and I am still in awe of the memories I possess from the experience.
Now, I am here in Washington State on this quiet morning on the brink of a new year. A new state, a new home and on the verge of meeting new friends and looking for a new job.
I never thought in a million years that I'd come back to Washington State to live. I grew up here and Graduated from High School not far from where we live now. The good thing is, I get to live nearer to my mother and brother. I look forward to spending time with them and getting to know them better, since I only saw them on vacations before and talked to them on the phone. I get to spend time with my nephew and get to know that wonderful boy who still has his whole life in front of him.
Sipping my coffee, enjoying the quiet morning on this last day of 2012 is a blessing. It has been quite a journey and a new chapter is just about to begin. How cool is that?
About Me
- Tory Lynn
- Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Monday, December 31, 2012
The last day of 2012
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Big Change and Faith to Move Forward
Seven years ago on Christmas Day, my family moved to Utah from Southern California. The culture shock was welcome, we came from a fast paced life, long commutes to work, and barely any breathing room for a life outside of work, to a small community with a small town feel.
My daughter finally had a chance to play outside without the fear of drugs being dealt, gun shots in the distance and illegals being dropped off on our driveway. I could never allow her to play outside without supervision, heck I felt as if I needed supervision from the crap that was taking place in our town that we once loved when we moved there years before.
Thankfully my husband had a job lined up in Cedar City, Utah, but I had to go out and find one. I finally found a job in February working with people with disabilities. I didn't know at the time that I would stay at the company for as long as I did. As challenging as it was, I used all of the experiences to learn and grow from, even though there were times I would have gladly welcomed change. I started as a regular direct care staff, then was promoted to Manager where I have grown as a person.
I am going to miss my co-workers as we are a network of people who support, listen and understand the unique jobs we all do as we care for and support the individuals we serve. I will miss the individuals who have a place in my heart whose lives I have had the opportunity to be apart of and who has taught me to become a better person.
The Associate Director actually summed it up quite eloquently last night at our annual Christmas Party for the managers, when he addressed us and our families. "We are a family with jobs that are a way of life that includes every member of our family, because without their support and acceptance of the things we are called to do, it would be very difficult. Our job calls for us to deal with, being called out at all hours of the night, have sudden schedule changes and having to deal with emergencies and situations that most people can't even imagine." I can't remember his words verbatim, but this was the message as we gave our families a round of applause for their support.
Now, seven years later, my family is moving once again to start a new chapter of our lives in Washington state. I ask, what our future holds, but as scary as it is, I am looking forward to the opportunity for new experiences, a new job and new friends to add on to the great circle of friends I already have.
Change is difficult, but we have faith that we are doing what it is we are meant to do, going in the direction that will bring us to the place we are meant to be, while giving us the opportunity to grow and learn new things.
My daughter finally had a chance to play outside without the fear of drugs being dealt, gun shots in the distance and illegals being dropped off on our driveway. I could never allow her to play outside without supervision, heck I felt as if I needed supervision from the crap that was taking place in our town that we once loved when we moved there years before.
Thankfully my husband had a job lined up in Cedar City, Utah, but I had to go out and find one. I finally found a job in February working with people with disabilities. I didn't know at the time that I would stay at the company for as long as I did. As challenging as it was, I used all of the experiences to learn and grow from, even though there were times I would have gladly welcomed change. I started as a regular direct care staff, then was promoted to Manager where I have grown as a person.
I am going to miss my co-workers as we are a network of people who support, listen and understand the unique jobs we all do as we care for and support the individuals we serve. I will miss the individuals who have a place in my heart whose lives I have had the opportunity to be apart of and who has taught me to become a better person.
The Associate Director actually summed it up quite eloquently last night at our annual Christmas Party for the managers, when he addressed us and our families. "We are a family with jobs that are a way of life that includes every member of our family, because without their support and acceptance of the things we are called to do, it would be very difficult. Our job calls for us to deal with, being called out at all hours of the night, have sudden schedule changes and having to deal with emergencies and situations that most people can't even imagine." I can't remember his words verbatim, but this was the message as we gave our families a round of applause for their support.
Now, seven years later, my family is moving once again to start a new chapter of our lives in Washington state. I ask, what our future holds, but as scary as it is, I am looking forward to the opportunity for new experiences, a new job and new friends to add on to the great circle of friends I already have.
Change is difficult, but we have faith that we are doing what it is we are meant to do, going in the direction that will bring us to the place we are meant to be, while giving us the opportunity to grow and learn new things.
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Defining Moments
"I've come to believe that in everyone's life, there's one undeniable moment of change, a set of circumstances that suddenly alters everything." - Nicholas Sparks
As we live our lives in this changing world we are all faced with obstacles. The road blocks and detours that we face gives us opportunities to stop and choose the path we are going to take.
These are defining moments. We discover bits and pieces of ourselves and what it is we stand for when we are met with resistance, because it is then that we must dig deep within ourselves. Do we take the path of least resistance, or do we take a path that takes us in a different direction.
It is disappointing when others find fault in the paths we take and judge us by what we believe and try to knock us back, because we dare to think differently than them.
The ever moving crowd that moves in one direction is a powerful pull, even if it is something not everyone wants, but because it is an easier path to follow, people settle and resign themselves to the belief that where they are going in life is just the way it is supposed to be. They stop daring to believe there is something else out there.
I found this link online, Biography Online. Read through the biographies of these great people who dared to make a difference.
Can you imagine, if these people chose to follow the crowd? Not standing up for their beliefs, or taking a stand on their individual strengths? They come from all walks of life, proving that each person can make a difference in how they live and how they have made a difference in the world around them.
We are not all meant to change the world, but we can make a difference in the world we live in, by being educated and informed of what is going on around us. Are you going to follow the crowd, because the collective says so, or are you going to nurture growth and mold your own future into something you can personally be proud of?
As we live our lives in this changing world we are all faced with obstacles. The road blocks and detours that we face gives us opportunities to stop and choose the path we are going to take.
These are defining moments. We discover bits and pieces of ourselves and what it is we stand for when we are met with resistance, because it is then that we must dig deep within ourselves. Do we take the path of least resistance, or do we take a path that takes us in a different direction.
It is disappointing when others find fault in the paths we take and judge us by what we believe and try to knock us back, because we dare to think differently than them.
The ever moving crowd that moves in one direction is a powerful pull, even if it is something not everyone wants, but because it is an easier path to follow, people settle and resign themselves to the belief that where they are going in life is just the way it is supposed to be. They stop daring to believe there is something else out there.
I found this link online, Biography Online. Read through the biographies of these great people who dared to make a difference.
Can you imagine, if these people chose to follow the crowd? Not standing up for their beliefs, or taking a stand on their individual strengths? They come from all walks of life, proving that each person can make a difference in how they live and how they have made a difference in the world around them.
We are not all meant to change the world, but we can make a difference in the world we live in, by being educated and informed of what is going on around us. Are you going to follow the crowd, because the collective says so, or are you going to nurture growth and mold your own future into something you can personally be proud of?
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Being supportive, inspiring, and encouraging.
How many of us writers run into obstacles?
It is a rhetorical question of course, because we all do.
Life throws out those curve balls and we have to be able to adapt and deal with them as they come out of nowhere. We do this in life anyway. It is often frustrating as a writer to have to put what ever we are working on, on the back burner as we live go through what ever it was that took us from our writing and then to get to the point where we can bring it back up to the fire again.
If you are lucky enough to be able to make enough money from your writing to keep you living your dream, I applaud you. Most of us aspiring writers need to work other jobs/careers to pay the bills in order to write. I hope to one day be able to write for a living and make enough to live on full time. I know a lot of writers who have that exact same dream.
For those who have succeeded, I look to you as my role models. Hearing your stories about how you got to be where you are is not only inspirational, it is encouraging me to keep going.
As writers, we are all in this together and we must be able to compliment and give encouragement to each other.
We all have our strengths and our weaknesses. I know I certainly do and I'm constantly working and striving to improve to be the best that I can be, but to do this I need help with my weaknesses, so I can improve on my strengths.
I think it all intertwines together as we all try to reach our personal goals. We need to realize that we can't be the best at everything and we all need help along the way. No one can reach their goals alone.
We are a network, a living breathing organism that needs each other.
After all is said and done it isn't the other writers we are trying to impress, though having the respect of our fellow authors is nice. It is our fan-base, our readers that we are working for. They are the ones who are going to rate us on our work.
Working together, inspiring one another, and helping each other will help all involved.
I want to thank those who have taken the time to help me and encourage me. Without them I wouldn't be where I am today.
It is a rhetorical question of course, because we all do.
Life throws out those curve balls and we have to be able to adapt and deal with them as they come out of nowhere. We do this in life anyway. It is often frustrating as a writer to have to put what ever we are working on, on the back burner as we live go through what ever it was that took us from our writing and then to get to the point where we can bring it back up to the fire again.
If you are lucky enough to be able to make enough money from your writing to keep you living your dream, I applaud you. Most of us aspiring writers need to work other jobs/careers to pay the bills in order to write. I hope to one day be able to write for a living and make enough to live on full time. I know a lot of writers who have that exact same dream.
For those who have succeeded, I look to you as my role models. Hearing your stories about how you got to be where you are is not only inspirational, it is encouraging me to keep going.
As writers, we are all in this together and we must be able to compliment and give encouragement to each other.
We all have our strengths and our weaknesses. I know I certainly do and I'm constantly working and striving to improve to be the best that I can be, but to do this I need help with my weaknesses, so I can improve on my strengths.
I think it all intertwines together as we all try to reach our personal goals. We need to realize that we can't be the best at everything and we all need help along the way. No one can reach their goals alone.
We are a network, a living breathing organism that needs each other.
After all is said and done it isn't the other writers we are trying to impress, though having the respect of our fellow authors is nice. It is our fan-base, our readers that we are working for. They are the ones who are going to rate us on our work.
Working together, inspiring one another, and helping each other will help all involved.
I want to thank those who have taken the time to help me and encourage me. Without them I wouldn't be where I am today.
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Thankful for those who have Honor & Conviction
People most of the time don't surprise me about how mean they can be. I've known and dealt with all kinds of people with different agendas, but I do stop and think about why people do what they do.
I believe there is something to be learned every-time something negative happens. It helps me to be more aware, so that maybe next time I can see it coming. I have to admit, that this time, I did not see this one coming, and it was a personal hateful attack actively trying to tear me down.
I won't elaborate on the details about this particular instance, but I do want to celebrate the good that came from it.
You never know who truly has your back until you are in a situation you truly can't control. It humbles me to know I have friends who step up and go to bat for me and are able to see things as they really are. I'm thankful they saw the truth of what was really happening. I want to thank those who spoke up when it mattered the most to me. THANK YOU!
I try to believe the best in people and try to give them all a fair chance, because not all people are evil and mean. I think we all tend to try to open up to do this, because we want others to give us the same chance. It is our faith that allows us to open up even if we are reluctant from past experiences.
I work with people, so I have the opportunity to teach everyday. I have also spent a life time of teaching my daughter that things work out most of the time. That there are those people who strive to do what is right even when it isn't comfortable to do so. I try to teach that we must always show by example how we expect to be treated. That when the opportunity arises we must stand up for what we believe and show conviction in our words and actions.
Have convictions, have honor and believe in God, because he will never steer you wrong. We are not be perfect, but if we go about our daily business with values, life can be a little easier.
I am thankful for those people who have the same standard, because when they rise up and help just because it is the right thing to do, they teach more than words ever could.
I believe there is something to be learned every-time something negative happens. It helps me to be more aware, so that maybe next time I can see it coming. I have to admit, that this time, I did not see this one coming, and it was a personal hateful attack actively trying to tear me down.
I won't elaborate on the details about this particular instance, but I do want to celebrate the good that came from it.
You never know who truly has your back until you are in a situation you truly can't control. It humbles me to know I have friends who step up and go to bat for me and are able to see things as they really are. I'm thankful they saw the truth of what was really happening. I want to thank those who spoke up when it mattered the most to me. THANK YOU!
I try to believe the best in people and try to give them all a fair chance, because not all people are evil and mean. I think we all tend to try to open up to do this, because we want others to give us the same chance. It is our faith that allows us to open up even if we are reluctant from past experiences.
I work with people, so I have the opportunity to teach everyday. I have also spent a life time of teaching my daughter that things work out most of the time. That there are those people who strive to do what is right even when it isn't comfortable to do so. I try to teach that we must always show by example how we expect to be treated. That when the opportunity arises we must stand up for what we believe and show conviction in our words and actions.
Have convictions, have honor and believe in God, because he will never steer you wrong. We are not be perfect, but if we go about our daily business with values, life can be a little easier.
I am thankful for those people who have the same standard, because when they rise up and help just because it is the right thing to do, they teach more than words ever could.
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Our Trip to Alaska, oh what an experience.
When you are looking forward to going on vacation, the anticipation is just as exciting as the vacation itself.
My husband and I planned our vacation with my two sisters to go on an Alaskan cruise on the Princess Crown ship. MY sister's flew into Seattle from San Diego and we came in from Cedar City Utah to board the ship.
My husband, daughter and I have gone on a three day Disney cruise with a large group of friends years ago, but that is the extent of our experience on a cruise ship.
My husband decided to get us a pent house suite, the room was very nice and the balcony was awesome. My sister's came up to hang out and party and to just enjoy when we weren't walking around the ship enjoying live show's and a funny comedian. If you like to eat, which I know is everyone's pass time, there is food that tempts any palette.
We went to the steak and seafood house for a couple of very nice dinners, Russ enjoyed a fine filet Mignon, which he rates as the best one he's ever had, even though we have gone to a couple of top steak houses in the country on a few of our travels. My sister's and I over indulged on lobster. I have to tell you, I have never gotten full on lobster before, but I did on this trip every time we had it.
Russ set up the ultimate dining experience served by a butler and his assistant in our room. It was supposed to be on the balcony, but it was a little too cold out to take advantage of the views. We had fine wine, caviar, which I have to admit, I don't care for, but I'm sure was very good to those who love it. My sister Linda was in heaven with the sushi and specialty Hors D'Oeuvres they served. Next they served a green salad with candied walnuts, the dressing of our choice and a specialty cheese that topped it. Next was the main course. The Filet Mignon Russ ordered was huge and so tender you could practically cut it with a fork with a side of fresh cut vegetables cooked to perfection. Linda, Kathy and I had lobster and Ribeye steak. Oh, my gosh, it was huge and it fell apart as we cut into it. If that wasn't enough, we were then served a selection of specially made deserts for our meal. Each course was a piece of art as it was served. We may never get to experience something like that again, but it was an experience none of us will ever forget.
We left Seattle and set sail to Juneau Alaska, it was cold and mostly foggy, but we had a wonderful time walking in and around the ship taking in all the views and the wonderful architecture of the ship. Everywhere you looked there was something beautiful, but none could take the focus off the real beauty, which is the great outdoors.
I sat for hours watching the sea for the Hump Back Whales, but only saw them from a distance as they blew water up on the surface. My sister Linda, was lucky and one time while she was out, she was looking down at the water, when a whale came up not far from from the ship and showed tail as it dove down deep.
Our next stop was Skagway Alaska. It was very cold and windy there. We visited all the shops and ate lunch in a small locally owned coffee and sandwich shop. I had a bowl of chilly that was to die for. Lisa, who owned Klondike Cafe was a gracious hostess, who was getting ready to close up in three days for the winter an go on to Arizona until the Alaskan winter was over. She said, there weren't a lot of people who who stayed, as everything pretty much closed down.
Our next stop was at Glacier Bay. Going into the bay was cold, but well worth the teeth chattering and bone chilling wind what cut through everything I wore. I stood at the front of the ship taking in all the beautiful views, that really is hard to explain in words. It's just something you have to experience and take in. It is something I will never forget.
There was a lot of glacier ice in the water as we came up on the magnificent glacier that groaned and cracked as pressure pushed it down from the mountains. We saw pieces of it falling into the bay. I have to admit, seeing the glacier really makes you think about the world we live in. It was dirtier than I expected, but remembering that these glaciers are carving out the landscape beneath the ice as it digs, scrapes, and carving out new landscapes, with ice as old as time, just boggles the mind. When you take the time to look at the layers of ice from it's oldest to the newest snow on tip, you will see the beautiful designs that resemble marble, with one of a kind sights that will never be seen again as the ice continues to make new landscapes.
Our next stop was at Jaw Drop Glacier, they call it that, because as you round the bend you'll see nature at it's best. This is the place where the North American Continent meets up with the Pacific Plate and pushes high into the air. The geological implications are breathtaking and wondrous, really making you think of wild Alaska at it's best and it's scariest. It makes you ponder life and how small we are and it humbles the soul, at least it did mine.
Sharing this experience with my husband and sister's meant more to me than anything else. Words weren't spoken, but a look of complete understanding was what was shared as we looked around. The other passengers had the same looks as they too looked around at the beauty.
The captain announced that we were very lucky to be able to enjoy the views without the torrential rains they have had most of the season, it was fitting to have such a beautiful experience on the last trip to Alaska for the season.
We then went on to Ketchekan Alaska. I woke up early, before the sun came out and went out onto the balcony and my breath caught as I looked down at the lights of the town. I looked out to the east and saw the glow of the sky beginning to illuminate the sky which was clear of no clouds. The reflection on the water, was comparable to gold dancing on the water with the pier and boats lining the inlet.
We were lucky to enjoy this wonderful place with sun shinning that day where it was actually warm, something that we were told doesn't happen much. We walked around the town, went shopping and ate at another locally owned cafe, where everything was made from scratch and was very good.
The last place we went to was Victoria, Canada. It was night when we got there, and we couldn't really see the area, but the lights and shops that lined the streets, gave off an an air of a quaint place with old beautiful buildings and spectacular architecture. The Parliament Building was outlined with lights, making the place come alive on the water front.
We got back to Seattle where we started our journey completely content with our memories and experiences. We want to go again someday to enjoy more of the excursions we did not go on during this trip.
I want to thank the ships, crew and room stewards that took care of us. Meeting people from all different walks of life and just about every country was just as much of an experience as the cruise itself, which made the trip take on different dynamics at every turn.
I'm thankful and humbled to be able to enjoy this time with my family.
My husband and I planned our vacation with my two sisters to go on an Alaskan cruise on the Princess Crown ship. MY sister's flew into Seattle from San Diego and we came in from Cedar City Utah to board the ship.
My husband, daughter and I have gone on a three day Disney cruise with a large group of friends years ago, but that is the extent of our experience on a cruise ship.
My husband decided to get us a pent house suite, the room was very nice and the balcony was awesome. My sister's came up to hang out and party and to just enjoy when we weren't walking around the ship enjoying live show's and a funny comedian. If you like to eat, which I know is everyone's pass time, there is food that tempts any palette.
We went to the steak and seafood house for a couple of very nice dinners, Russ enjoyed a fine filet Mignon, which he rates as the best one he's ever had, even though we have gone to a couple of top steak houses in the country on a few of our travels. My sister's and I over indulged on lobster. I have to tell you, I have never gotten full on lobster before, but I did on this trip every time we had it.
Russ set up the ultimate dining experience served by a butler and his assistant in our room. It was supposed to be on the balcony, but it was a little too cold out to take advantage of the views. We had fine wine, caviar, which I have to admit, I don't care for, but I'm sure was very good to those who love it. My sister Linda was in heaven with the sushi and specialty Hors D'Oeuvres they served. Next they served a green salad with candied walnuts, the dressing of our choice and a specialty cheese that topped it. Next was the main course. The Filet Mignon Russ ordered was huge and so tender you could practically cut it with a fork with a side of fresh cut vegetables cooked to perfection. Linda, Kathy and I had lobster and Ribeye steak. Oh, my gosh, it was huge and it fell apart as we cut into it. If that wasn't enough, we were then served a selection of specially made deserts for our meal. Each course was a piece of art as it was served. We may never get to experience something like that again, but it was an experience none of us will ever forget.
We left Seattle and set sail to Juneau Alaska, it was cold and mostly foggy, but we had a wonderful time walking in and around the ship taking in all the views and the wonderful architecture of the ship. Everywhere you looked there was something beautiful, but none could take the focus off the real beauty, which is the great outdoors.
I sat for hours watching the sea for the Hump Back Whales, but only saw them from a distance as they blew water up on the surface. My sister Linda, was lucky and one time while she was out, she was looking down at the water, when a whale came up not far from from the ship and showed tail as it dove down deep.
Our next stop was Skagway Alaska. It was very cold and windy there. We visited all the shops and ate lunch in a small locally owned coffee and sandwich shop. I had a bowl of chilly that was to die for. Lisa, who owned Klondike Cafe was a gracious hostess, who was getting ready to close up in three days for the winter an go on to Arizona until the Alaskan winter was over. She said, there weren't a lot of people who who stayed, as everything pretty much closed down.
Our next stop was at Glacier Bay. Going into the bay was cold, but well worth the teeth chattering and bone chilling wind what cut through everything I wore. I stood at the front of the ship taking in all the beautiful views, that really is hard to explain in words. It's just something you have to experience and take in. It is something I will never forget.
There was a lot of glacier ice in the water as we came up on the magnificent glacier that groaned and cracked as pressure pushed it down from the mountains. We saw pieces of it falling into the bay. I have to admit, seeing the glacier really makes you think about the world we live in. It was dirtier than I expected, but remembering that these glaciers are carving out the landscape beneath the ice as it digs, scrapes, and carving out new landscapes, with ice as old as time, just boggles the mind. When you take the time to look at the layers of ice from it's oldest to the newest snow on tip, you will see the beautiful designs that resemble marble, with one of a kind sights that will never be seen again as the ice continues to make new landscapes.
Our next stop was at Jaw Drop Glacier, they call it that, because as you round the bend you'll see nature at it's best. This is the place where the North American Continent meets up with the Pacific Plate and pushes high into the air. The geological implications are breathtaking and wondrous, really making you think of wild Alaska at it's best and it's scariest. It makes you ponder life and how small we are and it humbles the soul, at least it did mine.
Sharing this experience with my husband and sister's meant more to me than anything else. Words weren't spoken, but a look of complete understanding was what was shared as we looked around. The other passengers had the same looks as they too looked around at the beauty.
The captain announced that we were very lucky to be able to enjoy the views without the torrential rains they have had most of the season, it was fitting to have such a beautiful experience on the last trip to Alaska for the season.
We then went on to Ketchekan Alaska. I woke up early, before the sun came out and went out onto the balcony and my breath caught as I looked down at the lights of the town. I looked out to the east and saw the glow of the sky beginning to illuminate the sky which was clear of no clouds. The reflection on the water, was comparable to gold dancing on the water with the pier and boats lining the inlet.
We were lucky to enjoy this wonderful place with sun shinning that day where it was actually warm, something that we were told doesn't happen much. We walked around the town, went shopping and ate at another locally owned cafe, where everything was made from scratch and was very good.
The last place we went to was Victoria, Canada. It was night when we got there, and we couldn't really see the area, but the lights and shops that lined the streets, gave off an an air of a quaint place with old beautiful buildings and spectacular architecture. The Parliament Building was outlined with lights, making the place come alive on the water front.
We got back to Seattle where we started our journey completely content with our memories and experiences. We want to go again someday to enjoy more of the excursions we did not go on during this trip.
I want to thank the ships, crew and room stewards that took care of us. Meeting people from all different walks of life and just about every country was just as much of an experience as the cruise itself, which made the trip take on different dynamics at every turn.
I'm thankful and humbled to be able to enjoy this time with my family.
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Going on Vacation
Taking a break from the regular routine of life is essential for growth and piece of mind. If you ever feel like you get stuck in a rut, get away and do something totally different. You don't have to go to extreme lengths to do this. Find something you enjoy and spend the time to do it.
We decided to go on a cruise to Alaska when my sister's Kathy and Linda told us they were going. They were so excited when we said that we'd go too. The time we spent saving our money and planning has been like a vacation in itself.
We are now in Seattle and at noon we get to board the ship. Last night we spent time with our mom who treated us to dinner at Olive Garden. My little brother couldn't be there which was disappointing, but we'll meet up with him the next time we are in Seattle. We had so many laughs at dinner and the time we spent together will be remembered.
It is time for us to get ready. I plan on writing updates periodically to share on my blog about our time on the ship.
Have a great day.
We decided to go on a cruise to Alaska when my sister's Kathy and Linda told us they were going. They were so excited when we said that we'd go too. The time we spent saving our money and planning has been like a vacation in itself.
We are now in Seattle and at noon we get to board the ship. Last night we spent time with our mom who treated us to dinner at Olive Garden. My little brother couldn't be there which was disappointing, but we'll meet up with him the next time we are in Seattle. We had so many laughs at dinner and the time we spent together will be remembered.
It is time for us to get ready. I plan on writing updates periodically to share on my blog about our time on the ship.
Have a great day.
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Health and Writing. How Important is it? Read my story!!
I can only speak from experience, so I just want to share with you what I have gone through in the last year.
This next part is hard to say, but say it I will, because it is a part of who I am that made me who I am today.
Where do I start. I think it is suffice to say, that last year at this time, I physically felt, miserable, I couldn't sleep, I was tired all the time, I was depressed and I felt as if I had lost control of my life. My outlook was not what I had envisioned when I was younger and had my whole life in front of me. Bottom line, was that I did not like who I was and saw a dead end sitting metaphorically in front of me.
I went to the doctor for my annual exam and was told I was full fledged diabetes and needed to start on medication right away. I have to tell you that sent me into a tailspin and I went further into a depression I hadn't experienced in years. The doctors were concerned enough that they wanted me to do a sleep study. The diagnosis after two of them, was I had a serious case of sleep apnea.
The reflection I saw in the mirror wasn't just physical, I saw my whole life flash in front of me. Trying to figure out what brought me to this point in my life was moot. It didn't matter.
I went to a specialist and I was told that I did not have diabetes. But, if I kept on the way I was I soon would be. What a wake up call.
I had a choice. I could keep going like I was, or I could do something about it.
This was a defining moment for me.
I chose to take one day at a time. One day I made the decision to stop eating anything that was not good for me. It was hard at first, and I still struggle with it once in a while. I'd be lying if I said it didn't.
I stopped all fast food, I ate fresh fruits and vegetables four to five times a day. Along with a balanced diet of all things good for me. My portions were drastically smaller and I found that the way I chose to eat left me with more energy and I was never hungry. The exercise I do, helps clear my mind, gives me energy and gets me outside to enjoy the world around me.
I realized after a short time of doing this that I had an extra skip in my step, I smiled more. I started looking forward to doing more things in general and I had a better outlook of my future.
Now, a year later, here I am. I'm 50 pounds lighter, I look better, I have never felt better in my life, and I have a much clearer mind able to focus on more important issues, which makes every aspect of my life a lot more inspiring.
As a writer, I have discovered that when I feel better,I have more clarity, which in turn gives my writing a well needed pick me up. How can I write at my best when I don't feel my best?
This is just what I have put into action. I've known this my whole life, but now I'm living it.
I don't know where I'll be in another year, but I do know that if I keep up my current lifestyle I can't go wrong.
Now, I must get to writing, my characters are calling me and the story is awaiting.
Have a wonderful healthy day everyone.
This next part is hard to say, but say it I will, because it is a part of who I am that made me who I am today.
Where do I start. I think it is suffice to say, that last year at this time, I physically felt, miserable, I couldn't sleep, I was tired all the time, I was depressed and I felt as if I had lost control of my life. My outlook was not what I had envisioned when I was younger and had my whole life in front of me. Bottom line, was that I did not like who I was and saw a dead end sitting metaphorically in front of me.
I went to the doctor for my annual exam and was told I was full fledged diabetes and needed to start on medication right away. I have to tell you that sent me into a tailspin and I went further into a depression I hadn't experienced in years. The doctors were concerned enough that they wanted me to do a sleep study. The diagnosis after two of them, was I had a serious case of sleep apnea.
The reflection I saw in the mirror wasn't just physical, I saw my whole life flash in front of me. Trying to figure out what brought me to this point in my life was moot. It didn't matter.
I went to a specialist and I was told that I did not have diabetes. But, if I kept on the way I was I soon would be. What a wake up call.
I had a choice. I could keep going like I was, or I could do something about it.
This was a defining moment for me.
I chose to take one day at a time. One day I made the decision to stop eating anything that was not good for me. It was hard at first, and I still struggle with it once in a while. I'd be lying if I said it didn't.
I stopped all fast food, I ate fresh fruits and vegetables four to five times a day. Along with a balanced diet of all things good for me. My portions were drastically smaller and I found that the way I chose to eat left me with more energy and I was never hungry. The exercise I do, helps clear my mind, gives me energy and gets me outside to enjoy the world around me.
I realized after a short time of doing this that I had an extra skip in my step, I smiled more. I started looking forward to doing more things in general and I had a better outlook of my future.
Now, a year later, here I am. I'm 50 pounds lighter, I look better, I have never felt better in my life, and I have a much clearer mind able to focus on more important issues, which makes every aspect of my life a lot more inspiring.
As a writer, I have discovered that when I feel better,I have more clarity, which in turn gives my writing a well needed pick me up. How can I write at my best when I don't feel my best?
This is just what I have put into action. I've known this my whole life, but now I'm living it.
I don't know where I'll be in another year, but I do know that if I keep up my current lifestyle I can't go wrong.
Now, I must get to writing, my characters are calling me and the story is awaiting.
Have a wonderful healthy day everyone.
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Ever feel like you are talking in circles?
"I know ..."
"What do you know?"
"I know everything ... You can't tell me something I don't already know..."
"Great, but do you understand what you know?"
"Of course I understand what I know ..."
"I think not ..."
"Excuse me?"
"You might 'know' something, but understanding what you 'know' comes with time, patients and experience, and the willingness to learn from those who actually know."
"I know ..."
"Do you want to know what I know?"
"No!"
"To bad. You might think you 'know' everything, but the fact of the matter is, when you understand what you know, and learn to use it what you know, then you can prove what you know, by action. And my dear, action speaks louder than constantly saying, I know... with an attitude. By your actions, you don't know as much as you think you know."
"I know!"
~ By Tory Lynn ~
"What do you know?"
"I know everything ... You can't tell me something I don't already know..."
"Great, but do you understand what you know?"
"Of course I understand what I know ..."
"I think not ..."
"Excuse me?"
"You might 'know' something, but understanding what you 'know' comes with time, patients and experience, and the willingness to learn from those who actually know."
"I know ..."
"Do you want to know what I know?"
"No!"
"To bad. You might think you 'know' everything, but the fact of the matter is, when you understand what you know, and learn to use it what you know, then you can prove what you know, by action. And my dear, action speaks louder than constantly saying, I know... with an attitude. By your actions, you don't know as much as you think you know."
"I know!"
~ By Tory Lynn ~
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
True Memories in a Fiction Setting
I was thinking about the fiction story that I just started. At this time I have named it, A New Beginning. The title may change as I get more inspiration when I get it plotted out completely.
I am going to include parts of my early pre-teen and teenage memories as part of the story line entwined in a fiction setting. I've spent the last few weeks thinking back to when my grandparents were alive and living on their ranch in Colorado.
My grandparents worked hard and overcame a lot of difficulties. We used to go horseback riding, shooting, and fishing. We sat out under the stars around a huge campfires listening to stories of tall tales and true stories of when my grandparents grew up.
It was a life time ago, but the few times I was able to get away from the nightmare of my real life, and visit those beloved people, it held great meaning for me. The wide open spaces and the peace I found gave me hope, and it healed a broken spirit I didn't realize I had until later in life when understanding came easier.
The problem for me though is that I've been a suburbanite for all of my adult life. Things that I used to know about how the ranch was ran, how crops were planted, and how jargon and terminology were used back then have been lost on me. The things I just knew from being around that environment have been lost or are elusive and just out of reach since I have been away from that life for so long.
I would love to go back in time to capture those moments. To hold the essence of those family members and thank them for making such a huge difference in my life. I am looking forward to doing some research, talking to people,and going through old photos, so that when I write this story there will bits and peaces immortalized.
I am going to include parts of my early pre-teen and teenage memories as part of the story line entwined in a fiction setting. I've spent the last few weeks thinking back to when my grandparents were alive and living on their ranch in Colorado.
My grandparents worked hard and overcame a lot of difficulties. We used to go horseback riding, shooting, and fishing. We sat out under the stars around a huge campfires listening to stories of tall tales and true stories of when my grandparents grew up.
It was a life time ago, but the few times I was able to get away from the nightmare of my real life, and visit those beloved people, it held great meaning for me. The wide open spaces and the peace I found gave me hope, and it healed a broken spirit I didn't realize I had until later in life when understanding came easier.
The problem for me though is that I've been a suburbanite for all of my adult life. Things that I used to know about how the ranch was ran, how crops were planted, and how jargon and terminology were used back then have been lost on me. The things I just knew from being around that environment have been lost or are elusive and just out of reach since I have been away from that life for so long.
I would love to go back in time to capture those moments. To hold the essence of those family members and thank them for making such a huge difference in my life. I am looking forward to doing some research, talking to people,and going through old photos, so that when I write this story there will bits and peaces immortalized.
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Saturday, June 9, 2012
Unexplained Mystery
I uploaded this photo of the moon, because the photo was taken June 4th, 2012 at approximately 4:45am. If you check the cycle of the full moon, you would find out that there was supposed to be a full moon that night. I love the moon and I love to star gaze. I can assure you that on June 4th, 2012 at 4:45 in the morning there was not a cloud in the sky. So, my question is, what in the heck caused the shadow that is covering part of the moon?
I love a good mystery and this is making my imagination soar with the possibilities. I have not heard anything on the news about this. I posted the photo on facebook and my husband saw the photo and told me with surprise that he had seen it too the night before and thought it was strange. I'm so glad I am not going nuts. If I had not taken this photo I probably by now would have just told myself that I was seeing things, but I know differently. I wish there was an explanation to this, but as of now there isn't one.
I captured something unusual and it makes me wonder about what is really out there.
We are just a small speck in this great universe with mysteries that are beyond our understanding.
What kind of mysteries have you run across that remains unexplained?
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
The American Dream
Today is Saturday, the work that needs to be done at home is an ongoing endeavor. It never ends. That is not a bad thing, in fact it is good. I consider myself very fortunate to have a family and a home that I can call my own. The jobs my husband and I do, enable us to have the things we do, giving us a piece of the American dream.
While doing the laundry and cleaning, I'm putting things back in it's place and am even taking time out to help in the yard which is a never ending job as well. Between the work, I'm spending time writing and using my imagination to write myself into places I've only dreamed about and going to places I have never even thought of, because that is where my characters take me.
While I have my own set of beliefs and values, my characters have their own which makes every scene I write interesting to say the least. I have created a lot of fascinating characters that I surround myself with, which is one of the reasons I love to write.
Well, I must go out and help my hubby. We are adding more rock to the yard to fill in spots that have thinned out over the last few years. Set in strategic places around the yard are what used to be budding bushes, are now taller than us and have filled out making our home a paradise. The paradise we envisioned when we bought the place. It may not be a castle in France, but it is a castle non the less in our eyes. Which gives me another idea for a story. I must get on with what needs to be done, so I can delve into a land of fiction that is bursting to get out.
Have a wonderful day and thank you for stopping by to read my blog.
While doing the laundry and cleaning, I'm putting things back in it's place and am even taking time out to help in the yard which is a never ending job as well. Between the work, I'm spending time writing and using my imagination to write myself into places I've only dreamed about and going to places I have never even thought of, because that is where my characters take me.
While I have my own set of beliefs and values, my characters have their own which makes every scene I write interesting to say the least. I have created a lot of fascinating characters that I surround myself with, which is one of the reasons I love to write.
Well, I must go out and help my hubby. We are adding more rock to the yard to fill in spots that have thinned out over the last few years. Set in strategic places around the yard are what used to be budding bushes, are now taller than us and have filled out making our home a paradise. The paradise we envisioned when we bought the place. It may not be a castle in France, but it is a castle non the less in our eyes. Which gives me another idea for a story. I must get on with what needs to be done, so I can delve into a land of fiction that is bursting to get out.
Have a wonderful day and thank you for stopping by to read my blog.
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Monday, May 28, 2012
Memorial Day
Everyone who puts on a uniform is a hero in my book. I want to thank all the service men and women who stand tall with honor and grace who are fighting for our right to freedom.
Thank you, to those who have paid the ultimate price for our way of life, I am humbled beyond any words that can be spoken for your sacrifice.
Saying thank you sometimes just doesn't seem adequate in comparison to what is in my heart, but honestly, I don't think there are words. There are just tears, of sadness, of wonder and of great happiness to know that I am part of a country that is so great. It humbles me to know that what we have is built on sacrifices of the men and women who have fought for our way of life, driven by a vision, a dream that was founded by our forefathers for all future generations.
Enjoy your day with family and friends and remember what this day is meant for.
Thank you, to those who have paid the ultimate price for our way of life, I am humbled beyond any words that can be spoken for your sacrifice.
Saying thank you sometimes just doesn't seem adequate in comparison to what is in my heart, but honestly, I don't think there are words. There are just tears, of sadness, of wonder and of great happiness to know that I am part of a country that is so great. It humbles me to know that what we have is built on sacrifices of the men and women who have fought for our way of life, driven by a vision, a dream that was founded by our forefathers for all future generations.
Enjoy your day with family and friends and remember what this day is meant for.
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Characterization and How I Create.
The fresh air is blowing softly through my hair and a dog barks in the distance, my own dogs ears perk up in interest looking around as if they don't want to miss out on what is happening beyond the fenced yard. My cat is rubbing his face against my leg and looking up at me as if he is planning on jumping to my shoulders. I scratch his ears and pet him giving him attention and tell him no as he begins to crouch low as he gets ready to leap. I gently pet him as I pick him up for a few minutes then put him down, he runs off satisfied as a bee flies by capturing his attention.
I'm drinking my coffee and enjoying the morning and thinking back to a time when I first began writing. I read books constantly as a means to escape my reality in a home that was not a very happy place. I remember finding solace when I tried my hand at poetry and found that this was a good way to release feelings that were pent up inside that had no other way of coming out. I began writing little stories that I made up, it was fun, I found joy in a world I created, to escape the realities of life. I found my fiction world.
Of course not every memory I have is bad. I was able to hold on to moments that made me happy, I was able to see the good even when things weren't. I took bits and pieces of people with me, and I actually began to create characters that I used in my stories.
I still do that. My characters are of everyone I meet, bits and pieces I want to capture, a certain smile, a quirk of someones, a personality trait, a beard, the color of eyes, how they dress, if they limp, bite their nails, if they are mean, contradictory, or gentle. When I see a physical scar I wonder why they have it, I think of the scars we don't see. I'm always asking, why do people do what they do?
There is so much in those around all of us. We don't need to keep looking if we take the time to see what is right next to us.
I can pick up traits of people and find out what kind of character they have in the way they treat people in general, their partners, their kids and how they treat their animals.
Seeing someone angry is a learning experience that gives me insight in the reasons why they get angry, and how they handle it. I do the same when I see tender moments between people, sadness, loss, and great happiness. The subtle joy people have is really something you have to be attuned too, because those are the moments most people miss. Those are the moments that really mean something.
There are so many other things to look out for and observe. Like food and culture. I guess the list can go on to infinity if one takes the time to observe.
Through all of this, I have found myself. I have lived and experienced life as a participant, not a bystander. By experiencing most things I have observed in others gives me another dimension that I can use in my characters. I can make them feel, they become real and this makes them something others can relate too. I know when I read a book, I want to be able to delve right in and be apart of certain characters. I want to feel what they feel etc.
I often wonder how others create their characters. I'd love to hear about it if you should care to post.
Have a wonderful Mother's Day everyone.
I'm drinking my coffee and enjoying the morning and thinking back to a time when I first began writing. I read books constantly as a means to escape my reality in a home that was not a very happy place. I remember finding solace when I tried my hand at poetry and found that this was a good way to release feelings that were pent up inside that had no other way of coming out. I began writing little stories that I made up, it was fun, I found joy in a world I created, to escape the realities of life. I found my fiction world.
Of course not every memory I have is bad. I was able to hold on to moments that made me happy, I was able to see the good even when things weren't. I took bits and pieces of people with me, and I actually began to create characters that I used in my stories.
I still do that. My characters are of everyone I meet, bits and pieces I want to capture, a certain smile, a quirk of someones, a personality trait, a beard, the color of eyes, how they dress, if they limp, bite their nails, if they are mean, contradictory, or gentle. When I see a physical scar I wonder why they have it, I think of the scars we don't see. I'm always asking, why do people do what they do?
There is so much in those around all of us. We don't need to keep looking if we take the time to see what is right next to us.
I can pick up traits of people and find out what kind of character they have in the way they treat people in general, their partners, their kids and how they treat their animals.
Seeing someone angry is a learning experience that gives me insight in the reasons why they get angry, and how they handle it. I do the same when I see tender moments between people, sadness, loss, and great happiness. The subtle joy people have is really something you have to be attuned too, because those are the moments most people miss. Those are the moments that really mean something.
There are so many other things to look out for and observe. Like food and culture. I guess the list can go on to infinity if one takes the time to observe.
Through all of this, I have found myself. I have lived and experienced life as a participant, not a bystander. By experiencing most things I have observed in others gives me another dimension that I can use in my characters. I can make them feel, they become real and this makes them something others can relate too. I know when I read a book, I want to be able to delve right in and be apart of certain characters. I want to feel what they feel etc.
I often wonder how others create their characters. I'd love to hear about it if you should care to post.
Have a wonderful Mother's Day everyone.
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Good Morning
What a blessing it is to wake up to a clear day. I thank God for the opportunities I get and the lessons I learn each day.
I sip my coffee while enjoying the quiet morning. It isn't really quiet, the birds are chirping and flying around, and the wind is softly blowing through the leaves of the trees and I hear a few dogs barking in the neighborhood. In the pasture not too far from my house I see a couple of horses running playfully around chasing each other and kicking up their back legs getting their morning exercise. I hear them whiny as they get each others attention. It is an awesome sight to catch a glimpse of this before they settle down.
It is a little chilly right now, but it will warm up a little today and I may even be able to wear shorts without getting too cold.
At this moment everything is good, the peace I feel inside is inspiring in itself and has set my imagination at work where I can't wait to sit down and work on my current writing project. I hope to get it done soon. What started as a short story has turned into a novel. How cool is that? Some day I hope to be able to get it published, so I can share it with everyone who wants to read it.
My prayer for you is that you are showered with blessings and that you are able to recognize them no matter how big or small they are.
Have a good day and God Bless you.
I sip my coffee while enjoying the quiet morning. It isn't really quiet, the birds are chirping and flying around, and the wind is softly blowing through the leaves of the trees and I hear a few dogs barking in the neighborhood. In the pasture not too far from my house I see a couple of horses running playfully around chasing each other and kicking up their back legs getting their morning exercise. I hear them whiny as they get each others attention. It is an awesome sight to catch a glimpse of this before they settle down.
It is a little chilly right now, but it will warm up a little today and I may even be able to wear shorts without getting too cold.
At this moment everything is good, the peace I feel inside is inspiring in itself and has set my imagination at work where I can't wait to sit down and work on my current writing project. I hope to get it done soon. What started as a short story has turned into a novel. How cool is that? Some day I hope to be able to get it published, so I can share it with everyone who wants to read it.
My prayer for you is that you are showered with blessings and that you are able to recognize them no matter how big or small they are.
Have a good day and God Bless you.
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
A True Woman With a Heart of Gold
I just found out that a friend, Peggy, is very ill.
I can't even imagine how she is feeling and what her family is going through. My mind keeps flashing back to the memories of this woman who had a huge impact in my life before I moved to Utah. She was a great boss who to this day has a huge heart for everyone she has worked with, especially the kids' lives she impacted.
During the eight years on Dorm A that I worked under her tutelage I learned so much about what a true mentor really is and I have always tried to model after her and live up to her standard. Believe me she has a very high standard. :)
I never truly realized how much Peggy has influenced me until I moved out of state, and as in most things, I found that hindsight is golden. I can't even begin to tell you how much crossing paths with this wonderful woman has meant to me.
I feel blessed to have known, and to have seen first hand what a caring loving person Peggy is and how she has contributed to the success of hundreds of kids that were fortunate enough to have drifted her way and have cared enough to have taken part of her with them as they moved on. To witness the way she was able to listen to each individual person and make them feel heard and validated leaves me thinking how lucky all of have been to have Peggy in our lives.
My prayers are going out to Peggy and her family as they go through this very difficult time.
Anyone who reads this, please include Peggy and her family in your prayers.
I love you Peggy.
Vickie Treadway
I can't even imagine how she is feeling and what her family is going through. My mind keeps flashing back to the memories of this woman who had a huge impact in my life before I moved to Utah. She was a great boss who to this day has a huge heart for everyone she has worked with, especially the kids' lives she impacted.
During the eight years on Dorm A that I worked under her tutelage I learned so much about what a true mentor really is and I have always tried to model after her and live up to her standard. Believe me she has a very high standard. :)
I never truly realized how much Peggy has influenced me until I moved out of state, and as in most things, I found that hindsight is golden. I can't even begin to tell you how much crossing paths with this wonderful woman has meant to me.
I feel blessed to have known, and to have seen first hand what a caring loving person Peggy is and how she has contributed to the success of hundreds of kids that were fortunate enough to have drifted her way and have cared enough to have taken part of her with them as they moved on. To witness the way she was able to listen to each individual person and make them feel heard and validated leaves me thinking how lucky all of have been to have Peggy in our lives.
My prayers are going out to Peggy and her family as they go through this very difficult time.
Anyone who reads this, please include Peggy and her family in your prayers.
I love you Peggy.
Vickie Treadway
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
A Day at Home
I can only say that today has been a blessing. My daughter moved back home until she goes onto her next college which will be in about a year and a half if things goes right for her. It is Saturday and we are sitting outside enjoying the 80 degree weather. I'm in the shade and my daughter is in the sun trying to get a little color to her fair skin. Russ is trying to get the sprinklers to work now that winter is behind us.
So far the wind has not been blowing too bad and we have clear skies. My dogs are running back and fourth between all of us making sure everything is aas it should be. Once in a while a prairie dog will catch their eye across the street and they'll watch it until it goes back under ground. My cat hunter is across the street keeping his eyes on the rodent population and I'm sure he'll do his best to bring the numbers down.
I have images in my head and words floating around in my mind just waiting to be put down on paper. At least for a couple of hours I can have the peace I've been looking for this whole last week. Life is good at the moment and I am not going to take that for granted, because things can change in a in an instant.
I hope everyone has a good day and are enjoying the blessings that have come your way.
So far the wind has not been blowing too bad and we have clear skies. My dogs are running back and fourth between all of us making sure everything is aas it should be. Once in a while a prairie dog will catch their eye across the street and they'll watch it until it goes back under ground. My cat hunter is across the street keeping his eyes on the rodent population and I'm sure he'll do his best to bring the numbers down.
I have images in my head and words floating around in my mind just waiting to be put down on paper. At least for a couple of hours I can have the peace I've been looking for this whole last week. Life is good at the moment and I am not going to take that for granted, because things can change in a in an instant.
I hope everyone has a good day and are enjoying the blessings that have come your way.
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Saturday, April 14, 2012
My Latest WIP
Looking outside as it is snowing, is helping me to get motivated to do some writing. I've been working on this particular story for about six months and I still really enjoy working on it. For about three months I have not been able to even really look at it, because of going to school and doing the homework that was involved.
The story is written, but now I'm fine tuning it and trying to make it flow better. I love my characters and really like how the story itself fell into place.
This is what the story is about in a short teaser.
The Christmas Miracle, Never forgotten
Jacey McMillan finds love when she accepts a temporary job that takes her to Europe over the holidays. While there, a single phone call changes her life forever when she learns the truth about who she really is and that she had been kidnapped from her family who never gave up hope in finding her.
The story is written, but now I'm fine tuning it and trying to make it flow better. I love my characters and really like how the story itself fell into place.
This is what the story is about in a short teaser.
The Christmas Miracle, Never forgotten
Jacey McMillan finds love when she accepts a temporary job that takes her to Europe over the holidays. While there, a single phone call changes her life forever when she learns the truth about who she really is and that she had been kidnapped from her family who never gave up hope in finding her.
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Friday, April 6, 2012
Happy Easter
This year is going by so fast. I can't believe it is Good Friday already.
I wanted to wish everyone a Happy Easter or passover.
The celebration of Spring as new life emerges is always something to behold.
What ever you are planning to do, may it be at church to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, with family, friends, having barbeques, or even by yourself. I pray each of you have a great Easter weekend.
I wanted to wish everyone a Happy Easter or passover.
The celebration of Spring as new life emerges is always something to behold.
What ever you are planning to do, may it be at church to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, with family, friends, having barbeques, or even by yourself. I pray each of you have a great Easter weekend.
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Friday, March 16, 2012
27 Years of Marriage
Celebrating 27 years of marriage. My husband made reservations at a nice restaurant for us to go to tonight even though yesterday was the actual day. Our lives are very busy and we hardly get any time to be together, but that won't always be the case. Once I finish my class, things will calm down and I will be able to get back to a normal routine and we will start doing things together on a regular basis again.
I just had a birthday this week too, and that makes me another year older as well. I keep asking myself where the time has gone and what the future holds.
Someone asked me recently; What is the magic behind the success of your marriage?
There are so many variables to this question, it is difficult to narrow it down, because as we all know love sometimes is just not enough to keep people together.
What I will say is that you have to want to be together through the rough and the smooth patches in life, because you just never know what life will throw out at you. Each time you overcome an obstacle you grow from the experience and hopefully it makes you stronger. There needs to be a mutual respect for one another and you should want to build each other up and not tear them down. Each should fulfill the dreams they have with the love and support of the other, after all we are all different and dream of different things. This should be an opportunity for growth.
Tonight as we ate dinner at the restaurant we celebrated our anniversary at, I observed a young couple come in. They were seated at a table for two not far from where we were sitting. They smiled, laughed and looked into each others eyes as young couples do when they first fall in love.
My breath caught when I saw the young man pull out a ring case and put it in front of the young woman. She looked at him in surprise. I didn't want to be caught staring, but I couldn't keep from watching this romantic scene playing out in front of me.
The young woman took the ring out of the case and looked at it. She looked up at her date with a smile and nodded. I couldn't hear what they were saying to each other, but the universal language of love was at play right in front of me. She slipped the ring on her finger with excitement and just glowed. She couldn't stop looking at the ring as she spread her fingers out and smiled. The young man grinned and nodded in full satisfaction and then they kissed. It was all so very romantic. I didn't even know them and tears came to my eyes.
Russ and I have lived a life time together and have had our good years and our not so good years, but we prevail and keep going with a deeper love and understanding than what we had when we were first married.
I wish the best for that young couple as their journey begins.
For Russ and I we are looking forward to many more years.
Life is good.
I just had a birthday this week too, and that makes me another year older as well. I keep asking myself where the time has gone and what the future holds.
Someone asked me recently; What is the magic behind the success of your marriage?
There are so many variables to this question, it is difficult to narrow it down, because as we all know love sometimes is just not enough to keep people together.
What I will say is that you have to want to be together through the rough and the smooth patches in life, because you just never know what life will throw out at you. Each time you overcome an obstacle you grow from the experience and hopefully it makes you stronger. There needs to be a mutual respect for one another and you should want to build each other up and not tear them down. Each should fulfill the dreams they have with the love and support of the other, after all we are all different and dream of different things. This should be an opportunity for growth.
Tonight as we ate dinner at the restaurant we celebrated our anniversary at, I observed a young couple come in. They were seated at a table for two not far from where we were sitting. They smiled, laughed and looked into each others eyes as young couples do when they first fall in love.
My breath caught when I saw the young man pull out a ring case and put it in front of the young woman. She looked at him in surprise. I didn't want to be caught staring, but I couldn't keep from watching this romantic scene playing out in front of me.
The young woman took the ring out of the case and looked at it. She looked up at her date with a smile and nodded. I couldn't hear what they were saying to each other, but the universal language of love was at play right in front of me. She slipped the ring on her finger with excitement and just glowed. She couldn't stop looking at the ring as she spread her fingers out and smiled. The young man grinned and nodded in full satisfaction and then they kissed. It was all so very romantic. I didn't even know them and tears came to my eyes.
Russ and I have lived a life time together and have had our good years and our not so good years, but we prevail and keep going with a deeper love and understanding than what we had when we were first married.
I wish the best for that young couple as their journey begins.
For Russ and I we are looking forward to many more years.
Life is good.
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Listening with Love and Compassion
Watching someone you love hurt is not easy, because you just want to wrap them up in a blanket and take all the hurt away. As we all know that is not possible. We live life, make decisions and hope they are the good ones, so that one day we can look back and say, "Yes, I did something right."
I don't know if you do, but I find that when giving pep talks that I fall into the bad habit of giving cliche's like: Everything will be okay, don't worry all you really need to do is move on, another words get over it. lol Oh, man when I hear that I just want to hang up the phone and hit my head against the wall. That kind of advice is not what the person really needs or wants to hear. I know I don't when going through a bad time.
For most of us it is hard to trust someone enough to open up. Sometimes when initially making the effort to call for help we don't even really understand what we need in the moment, but when we hear it, it really hits home. Most of the time we just need someone to listen. We don't need to fall into the role of advice giving or telling someone what they have to do, "to get over it". We are human and we don't really work like that, and it isn't that easy anyway.
Most of us already know what we need to do, but our feelings get in the way and that is part that is difficult to work through. Our feeling makes us human.
One of the things I did say to this person I love is, sometimes we just have to give ourselves permission to move on, we have to tell ourselves that it is okay to forgive ourselves for things we think we have done wrong and take credit for what we have done right. It is okay to be happy and stand up and learn from our experiences. We take with us our experiences with people and situations and ultimately learn from them, and if we allow it, become better people because of them.
I could tell that I said something right, because first of all, I didn't get hung up on, or I didn't get the irritated deep breath, that people do when you have said something they aren't ready to face, or maybe doesn't really apply to what they are feeling, or what is going on. After all I'm not a therapist, but I'm a mom, a friend, a wife and best of all a woman who has gone through a lot of things in life that help me identify with hardships, disappointments, frustrations, anger, sadness, forgiveness, happiness and love.
We may not admit it most of the time, but we need each other. We need love, compassion, and most of all we all need to be heard. We need to know that we matter.
Take the time to listen and be there for someone, because you just never know when you are going to be the one who needs someone to lean on.
Vickie
I don't know if you do, but I find that when giving pep talks that I fall into the bad habit of giving cliche's like: Everything will be okay, don't worry all you really need to do is move on, another words get over it. lol Oh, man when I hear that I just want to hang up the phone and hit my head against the wall. That kind of advice is not what the person really needs or wants to hear. I know I don't when going through a bad time.
For most of us it is hard to trust someone enough to open up. Sometimes when initially making the effort to call for help we don't even really understand what we need in the moment, but when we hear it, it really hits home. Most of the time we just need someone to listen. We don't need to fall into the role of advice giving or telling someone what they have to do, "to get over it". We are human and we don't really work like that, and it isn't that easy anyway.
Most of us already know what we need to do, but our feelings get in the way and that is part that is difficult to work through. Our feeling makes us human.
One of the things I did say to this person I love is, sometimes we just have to give ourselves permission to move on, we have to tell ourselves that it is okay to forgive ourselves for things we think we have done wrong and take credit for what we have done right. It is okay to be happy and stand up and learn from our experiences. We take with us our experiences with people and situations and ultimately learn from them, and if we allow it, become better people because of them.
I could tell that I said something right, because first of all, I didn't get hung up on, or I didn't get the irritated deep breath, that people do when you have said something they aren't ready to face, or maybe doesn't really apply to what they are feeling, or what is going on. After all I'm not a therapist, but I'm a mom, a friend, a wife and best of all a woman who has gone through a lot of things in life that help me identify with hardships, disappointments, frustrations, anger, sadness, forgiveness, happiness and love.
We may not admit it most of the time, but we need each other. We need love, compassion, and most of all we all need to be heard. We need to know that we matter.
Take the time to listen and be there for someone, because you just never know when you are going to be the one who needs someone to lean on.
Vickie
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Happy Valentine's Day
What are you going to do for Valentin's Day? is there a place you want to go? Is there a special person you are going to be with? What is your idea of romance and celebrating?
My husband and I won't be doing anything special on Valentin's day sad to say, because I have to go to school that night after going to work all day. Not very romantic is it ... Oh, well. (Sigh)
My husband and I were making plans for this weekend last week and talking about what we wanted to do and what places to see. We like to get away to Las Vegas, because it is close and there is a lot to do. Our lives are so busy we don't get a lot of time together lately, and we'll take this time to catch up with each other. I think it is important to make the time to be with each other.
Russ surprised me by saying that we needed to celebrate Valentine's day together this weekend since this will be our only chance.
I can't tell you how much that meant to me to hear. I hadn't thought about it and he did. You'd think I would have been all over this since I'm a romance writer and I love, love, even it it's most simple form. Maybe I'm losing my touch, but I have to say, it felt good for him to even acknowledge it. I'm thinking of what I'll do for him, but I'm not really sure what yet.
We have been married for 26 years and in March it will be 27. I'll post about that later, but even after all this time we both feel the need and want to have a little romance and we still want to spend time with each other.
What ever it is that you do for Valentine's Day, I hope it is a nice day for you. If you have someone in your life take the time to let them know how you feel about them. Don't wait, just go with what is in your heart.
Have a great Valentine's day to all.
My husband and I won't be doing anything special on Valentin's day sad to say, because I have to go to school that night after going to work all day. Not very romantic is it ... Oh, well. (Sigh)
My husband and I were making plans for this weekend last week and talking about what we wanted to do and what places to see. We like to get away to Las Vegas, because it is close and there is a lot to do. Our lives are so busy we don't get a lot of time together lately, and we'll take this time to catch up with each other. I think it is important to make the time to be with each other.
Russ surprised me by saying that we needed to celebrate Valentine's day together this weekend since this will be our only chance.
I can't tell you how much that meant to me to hear. I hadn't thought about it and he did. You'd think I would have been all over this since I'm a romance writer and I love, love, even it it's most simple form. Maybe I'm losing my touch, but I have to say, it felt good for him to even acknowledge it. I'm thinking of what I'll do for him, but I'm not really sure what yet.
We have been married for 26 years and in March it will be 27. I'll post about that later, but even after all this time we both feel the need and want to have a little romance and we still want to spend time with each other.
What ever it is that you do for Valentine's Day, I hope it is a nice day for you. If you have someone in your life take the time to let them know how you feel about them. Don't wait, just go with what is in your heart.
Have a great Valentine's day to all.
Everyday that I get to sit down and write, I get to live part of my dream. Writing romance has been a dream of mine ever since I read my first romance novel. The underlying theme I carry in all of my work is overcoming difficulty, believing in oneself and achieving dreams. It isn't hard to look to the stars and dream the impossible, because the only thing that stops you is your imagination.
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