I'd like to thank the academy...

Ok, the academy hasn't awarded me with anything, but for a short time last night, I felt like an Oscar had been bestowed upon me. One of the dreams I've had since I was old enough to read "Run Spot, Run", was to write. My hope was to one day write a novel, which I've started working on...very slowly. I've learned over the years that the best way to get better at writing is to do it...often. So, I joined a website called Helium.com. It's a website for writers. You can publish articles on just about any subject, and that includes creative writing pieces.

That brings me to what made me feel so good last night. The day before yesterday, I posted a short story I had written a few years ago for some of my students. When you post an article, it is rated by other writers. The day after I posted the story, I checked it's position, and it was rated #3 out of 31! I was so excited. It was my first story and my first time posting on the site.

Yesterday afternoon, I posted a devotion I had written about my sister and my twin nephews. When I checked it's rating last night, it was listed as the FEATURED article! It was #1 out of 37. I was walking on cloud nine. If you'd like to read the story and the devotion, just follow the link to Helium here on my page.

I feel inspired. Maybe this is the jump start I need to get me writing on a regular basis. That's my plan, anyway. I'll keep you "posted"!

My Favorite Day

I love Sundays. First, I get to spend a good part of my day at Church. We are so blessed that in such a small town, there is a place like FBC. It's filled with amazing people who love the Lord and love each other. I know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that if we needed anything at all, the members of FBC would be there to lend a hand. There are a lot of people out there who feel they have similar places of worship, but I feel like these folks are my family.

Second, in between morning service and evening service, I get to spend the day with my husband and little boy. Today, after lunch, all three of us took a much-needed nap. Then, we just enjoyed being together. I had to go to Church and help with our children's Bible drill in the evening, but when I got back, I had THE most fun rough-housing with Samuel in the floor. I can tell I'm getting older. Rolling around on the floor is much harder than it used to be. Hearing my son's laugh was so worth it. That sound is a special kind of music.

My hubby's working on grading papers right now. He's a Science teacher and teaches both junior high and high school kids. He also coaches tennis at the school. This is a busy time of year for him. They are getting ready for State tests and his tennis season is in full swing (pardon the pun). Yet another reason Sundays are so special. I get to look over and see him in his chair, intent on his work.

I like staying up while he works so we can chat some in between tasks, but it's getting late, and I'm beginning to fade. God bless and here's hoping your Sunday was as special as mine.

A New World

One could get very philosophical when they begin a new endeavor. I'm not one of those people. My name is Tina and I lead what many would call a regular life. I've been happily married for going on six years, and at age 38, found out I would have my first child. I was a high school English teacher at the time and decided to stay at home and raise our son - quite a change for me.

Before my blessed surprise, I was quite the career girl. My job defined me. I felt good getting up each day, going to work and being productive. Now, my day consists of chasing a toddler and trying to figure out how we're going to make it on one salary. It's been a struggle, but worth every bit of it.

I've decided to start this blog for several reasons, not the least of which is selfish. I hope to work on my writing skills, entertain, and keep in touch with family and friends. For now, I say to those who are brave enough to read this...welcome, and I look forward to this new relationship!