10 Things I Like About Myself If someone asked me to make a list of what I like about myself, I might hesitate at first. It’s not something most of us do very often. But there’s real value in pausing to acknowledge what’s good, solid, and true about who we are. Here’s what came to…
Tag: Blog
25 Lies Writers Tell Themselves (and How to Fight Back)
One of the biggest challenges in writing is quieting the negative self-talk that can paralyze creativity. Below are 25 common thoughts that often surface—followed by a method I’ve discovered that helps combat these discouraging messages. Why I tell myself I shouldn’t write today: How to Combat Negative Self-Talk Set a timer, pick up your notebook…
The “Someday” List in Progress
I have a secret dream of becoming a yoga master. Never mind that I’m not currently doing yoga. Is that a requirement for the dream? I’d also like to learn Spanish, travel to Africa, and figure out how to scuba dive. And then there’s sailing—I’d love to learn how to sail and have a place…
“Anything Else,” Another Song Collaboration that Brother Sam and I Shared
Here is the link to our song, “Anything Else.” Here is the other song that Sam and I collaborated on. I came up with the hook for the song and Sam and I worked together on the lyrics. He then took the lyrics and created music for the song. From a writer’s point of view,…
Revisiting “Just a Little Hope,” A Song Written by My Little Brother and Me
Last night, one of the members of my writing group, Taffy Kennedy, mentioned the song that had “hope in the title” that I had written with my brother Sam. I was so touched she remembered, I promised I’d find it so she could hear it again. Here it is below from a previous post here…
Life on the Quirky Side
When my husband is bored or ready to leave or fed up with what someone is saying, he whistles. It is the same tune every time – a series of notes that go up and then go down – and he is not particularly aware that he is sending off this signal. When I comment…
The Road to Normal: Worth Repeating
I wrote this piece a while back, but it still rings true. I decided to share it with you tonight. Here’s to normal, however you may define that word in your particular, unique, and wonderful life. Len My husband said to me today, “Thank you for being so normal.” I replied, “Thank you back.” Not…
What I’ve Always Wanted: An Inconclusive List in No Particular Order
I’ve always wanted to be fluent in Spanish and Italian. I’ve always wanted to go on trips to many countries worldwide. I’ve always wanted a simple and nicely tailored wardrobe with at least two cashmere sweaters. I’ve always wanted to learn how to drive a motorcycle. I’ve always wanted a happy and fulfilling marriage that…
Letting Life Get Messy
I have always hated what comes first when contemplating change: the ruin of what is, the demolition of the status quo, and the process of undoing in order to redo. This has caused me great discomfort as a person with a strong need for tidiness and order. “Let’s knock down that wall,” my husband might…
The Value of a Good Wander in Personal Essay Writing
I referenced this piece in a class I was teaching today. I think this applies to not just writing but life in general. A good wander serves many good purposes. Any of my personal essay students will tell you that I often say, “It’s important to use writing as a form of discovery.” I contend…
20 Minutes a Day 