* Writing, Journaling, & Self Growth *

Yesterday I wrote about the 2012 desk calendar, Bylines, and what a wonderful aide it is for writers. Even though I love the technology and ease of my laptop, I still have to write things down if I'm going to remember them. Yes, I know there are calendars on the computer and on my Blackberry, but I am old-fashioned in many ways. I must write important notes, appointments, deadlines, etc. Then the words are right there, for me to see, in black and white (or whatever marvelous ink color I choose to use!) And because of my need for organization, I've just ordered my Bylines Calendar, and I'm establishing my goals.

*Note added 12/30/11 at 10:30am:  I just realized that Tama Kieves' photo looks remarkably like my profile photo! Mine was taken years ago. I swear I did not copy her pose!!

"My Life in 2012: Accomplishing My Goals." 

Part One:  Using my Bylines Calendar.

Part Two:  Writing Daily.

(And I don't mean blog writing, but there will be time for that, as well.)

My plan for daily writing will begin on January 2nd, (because it's Monday) and will involve Mari McCarthy's journaling book, "Peace of Mind and Body." Mari is a writer, singer, and journaling guru.
I received her jouraling book in a blog give-away a few months ago, but I never "found" the time to begin writing in it. I'm SO ready to begin now.

Tama Kieves is the author of "This Time I Dance! Creating the Work You Love." Tama's book was given to me a few years ago by someone who knew my dream of being a published writer. That book changed my life! Since then, I've purchased it once or twice to give as gifts to writer friends. It's one of those books you go back to from time to time, to re-read the inspiring words, to jump start that fire in your soul!

There are other writers and speakers who've written valuable books on these same subjects. I'll try to share them tomorrow.

Also, I've been reading blogs of other writers and their goals for next year. I'll try to share some of their ideas and suggestions tomorrow, too.

Instead of quotes this time, I'm posting two of the Sub Chapters in Tama's book:



"Just Start Dancing and The Band Will Find You."

"When You Nurture Yourself, You Nurture Your Dreams."

A Special Day

Twenty four years ago today I received a special gift.....my youngest son, Mark, was born! I could go on and on about what a wonderful boy he was and what a great guy he is now. But since we moms all feel that way, I don't feel the need to write about it.

I receive Mari McCarthy's e-newsletter and always get something really great from it. I was also fortunate to win one of her "Peace of Mind and Body" journaling book a few months ago. (Sorry to say I don't remember where I won it! Somewhere in Blog Land....and I still haven't begun to use it. Mari said to be sure and start it when I know I'll have the time and desire to keep at it every day....I hope I begin soon!) Be sure and check out Mari's website. She's an amazing woman.

The following was included in today's newsletter. It really grabbed me and made me say WOW. It perfectly fits my current self and that third sentence is the one I really need to remember...and achieve.

"Be vigilant with your mission. Be exuberant with your passion. Be gentle with yourself." -- Michelle James 

* Books, Contests, and 200 Followers! *

* Yesterday I received an e-mail from Angela Mackintosh of WOW! Women on Writing  telling me I'd won a copy of Mari McCarthy's new workbook, Peace of Mind and Body: 27 Days of Journaling to Health and Happiness.  I am so excited! This book definitely sounds like something I need. Maybe it will help me conquer writer's block and self-sabotage....and....?  The possibilities are endless!

* Remember my small collection of different characters holding books? I posted some photos last November of small statues of a Santa, a duck, and an angel, all holding books? Well...I have a new addition to my collection! I found it at a dollar store....yep, it cost $1.00! And it is adorable!! The only difference with this new statue is the book is closed instead of open. Isn't she sweet, holding her book to her heart and looking so happy? She must've just finished reading something wonderful. What book could it be? So many to dream about.

I love the way her dress hangs, as if the wind is gently blowing.

And look at that straw hat with the sweet flower on the side.

Pink purse, black shoes and white socks!

And look at that beautiful hair!

* In addition to this little girl, I bought another little statue or two since Christmas, plus I received an adorable one as a gift from a dear writer friend. I don't think I ever posted photos of them, so I'll try to do that next week sometime.

* Tonight at midnight, I'll let random.org choose the winner of Gone With a Handsomer Man. I'd like to say thank you to everyone who participated in my give-away....and particularly JOLENE who just became my 200th Follower about 9:30 pm this evening! Thank you and welcome, Jolene! I hope you always enjoy stopping at my blog and will come back often.

* When I announce the winner tomorrow of GWAHM, I'll also announce whatever I come up with, to celebrate reaching the 200 Follower Milestone! I remember how thrilled I was when I reached 50 followers, 75, and then 100, and on. It really amazes me and I thank each and every one of you, no matter how or why you found me.....I'm so very happy you did! ♥

“Good friends, good books and a sleepy conscience: this is the ideal life.” -- Mark Twain