Wednesday, November 4, 2009

BEEginnings: BEEsy Writer Blog

About two months ago, I entered the world of blogging with my BEEsy Mama blog. I never realized how much I would enjoy blogging. And so I decided to create a second blog--BEEsy Writer. With BEEsy Writer, I hope to share my writing journey with you, with a focus on what I'm learning and the valuable advice I've received along the way.

Let me tell you a little about my writing past. I discovered a passion for writing when I was in second grade. After writing a story about an alligator chasing me around the world, my second grade teacher invited me to write stories on her typewriter after school one day each week. Pounding away on the typewriter keys, I fell in love with writing.

As a child, I was blessed with many people in my life who encouraged me to learn and grow in my writing. So when I entered college, I decided to pursue a degree in Journalism. I enjoyed my journalism classes and hoped to someday be a writer of some sort. But during my last year in college, I received an internship that took my career in a new direction. At that time, I placed my dream of being a fiction writer on the sidelines, where it remained for many years to follow.

Even though I took a sabbatical from fiction writing, I still continued to write. In fact, I learned much about writing during these years, particularly in my last job where I was involved in writing many reports on public policy issues and programs.

Two years ago, I left my job of ten years to be a work-at-home mom. It was at that time I started to explore the possibilities of writing fiction and articles and began taking steps toward pursuing this childhood dream. During the last several months, I've developed a habit of writing almost daily (although, I usually take Sundays off). I've also attended a couple of writing conferences, joined writing organizations, taken writing and editing classes, and read several books and magazines on the craft of writing.

I marvel at the many blessings I've encountered and lessons I've learned on this journey so far. The writers, agents, and editors I've met at conferences, writing groups, and classes have been so kind and gracious, offering valuable insights and guidance on how to become a better writer. What has been truly remarkable to me is how uplifting and supportive this group has been. It's a community I feel so blessed to be a part of.

A passion for writing is in my blood, and it's growing day by day as I sit and write. I realize I have much to learn about writing. But I'm eager to learn. I also recognize that the quest I am embarking on will require discipline, long-term commitment, courage, strength, and humility. I know it will challenge and stretch me beyond what I can imagine. I'm sure there will be times I want to give up. But for me, I am hopeful this will be a lifetime commitment. And perhaps my greatest desire is for my writing to be purposeful and to glorify God.

I am looking forward to sharing this journey with you!