I've got a secret...

I like working at home. And overall, I like the various ventures I'm involved in as a way to make money at home. BUT...if I could do anything and still make a living, I'd write. Not magazine articles. Not business writing. I'd write fiction. Not Oprah book club fiction but no-redeeming value mystery and even romance fiction:)

It took me a while to realize how much I enjoy writing. In high school, it took me a couple of tries to pass the written competency exam so I always felt I wasn't good at it. And, it was stressful. But a few years ago, I shared some of my work with my sister (okay...she's not a publisher but she is an avid reader....) who was very complementary. Ever since, she's been asking, "Have you sent anything off to a publisher."

So far, the answer is no. At least not the fiction stuff. (I am working on a non-fiction for moms who want to work online). First, I don't have anything finished. Second, I don't have time to finish it. Well, that's not really true. But when I do have time, I'm not inspired. And sometimes, that old doubt about the quality of my writing creeps in (as you may be able to tell, my grammar and punctuation needs work). What I have to remind myself is that I enjoy it, whether or not someone else will pay for it.

This week is the Virginia Festival of the Book. I love this event and am hoping it will help me get inspired to finish something. This week there are many events related to mystery writing ... yeah! Plus, you can rub elbows with published writers who have lots to share about writing and publishing.

I share this "secret" as a reminder to everyone that its okay to pursue a hobby or dream even if it seems like it will never come to fruition. The truth is, it won't happen if you don't at least try. So even if you think its dumb or silly; even if you think you are no good at it; even if you think others will laugh or criticize you and you want to keep it a secret; you owe it to yourself to pursue your hobby or dream.

Leslie