A Promise Fulfilled

October 2, 2008. Well, I promised a dear friend that I would attempt to set up a blog. I am more confused than ever . . . Where is the template I chose? How do I add those blogs I wish to follow? Boy, I need a tutorial. Until then, I can write and tell you about myself.

I am a writer. My discipline waxes and wanes with my mood and level of self-confidence. I love to write short stories with a bit of mystery and suspense keeping things alive. But, it seems I do my best writing when I settle down and write memoirs, historical fiction and romance.

My to be read stack of books consists mostly of mystery/suspense. I think there must be 10 or 12 there now. I have recently a non-mystery author who has captured my heart. Her name is Sara Gruen, she is the author of "Riding Lessons," "Flying Changes," and "Water for Elephants." She is a master of characterization, including the animals who are characters in all of her books. As an animal lover I find that irrestible.

One of my lifelines in this world is the Bayou Writers Group in Lake Charles, Louisiana. They are a part of my family. They encourage me and support me. They teach me. They are patient. I have learned to believe in the importance of having a support group. Writing may be solitary, but without the support of others it rarely makes it out of the computer.

I can't open my blogging experience without telling everyone about my family. Hubby, Frank, and I have been married for 37 years. Our two sons are healthy, happy and responsibleb young men. The oldest, Erick, is a school teacher in Sherman, Texas. He has some extraordinary writing talent of his own. I think he could become a great author if he chooses. The youngest, Bill, is married to the most wonderful girl in the world. My daughter-in-law, Sierra, is spectacular. And, they have blessed us with a granddaughter, Rosalyn, who is nothing less than magnificent. Rosalyn is 15 months old. Bill is in the Navy and has been since 1994. When he isn't working for the Navy he serves as a volunteer firefighter and paramedic. I also have a dog, Bear. She is half border collie/half lab. I love her and find she is one of the best anti-depressants in the world.

I am a retired (due to a disability) registered nurse. My specialty was mother's and newborns. I loved every year of it. I miss it every day. Writing gradually became my solace after the injury. As I said it has waxed and waned.

I am a 57 year old woman still dreaming of owning a horse. Never outgrew it. It seems silly, but it is as much a part of me as my eye color or size. People gift me often with horse statues, pictures, stationary, mugs, and other things. They all decorate my room, which is currently under construction. I can't imagine ever getting rid of any of them.

More about writing. I want to learn to discipline myself to make a "job" out of it. Any suggetions from the readers out there?

Until I figure this out and set up a proper site good evening and wish me luck. God bless you. And, Jess, I'm trying . . .

Winona

The book of James, chapter 1, verses 2,3 tell us to consider it pure joy when we face trials for they give us perserverance.