"In the beginning" are the words opening the first book in the Bible. Thus, all activity starts somewhere in a process. The progressive beginning of an intent to write has been burning within for several years; however, it was just last year an editor with HIGHLIGHTS took some time from her vacation after meeting me in conversation about my puppy on the street one winter day to look over a manuscript for a children's story. Taking her valuable time she edited my manuscript and then gave me what she usually gives authors who pay for it-- wonderful advice!

Yes, I reworked the manuscript for publication and sent it in for a contest. Although it didn't win the contest that meeting a deadline and reworking a story was an excellent exercise in what it means to edit and rework while not losing the story in the process. My feelings were mixed sending it off for I felt intuitively I had not accomplished it and as it turns out...I hadn't. Infact, it became less clear under a pressure of a deadline. Still, as I mentioned the experience was good for me. Also, the editor told me she felt I had a certain stylistic talent and gave me advice she usually gives to already published authors. That was both an encouragement and a motivating factor in continuing the process and progression. Undoubtedly, it was also a beginning. So, here I am and willing to learn and observe and write more! Working in a university writing center as a tutor does not help me edit for myself. Somehow, I correct it in my mind and cannot see the errors of my own page-- go figure? At any rate, any and all advice and critique is welcome and I welcome new friends, here!