Swamped

I wanted to add a post some time ago but things were kind of disappointing for a while. No committee selected my photos for their note cards, I didn’t make it into the Earth Day Book, I didn’t place in some contests, I didn’t get a grant, and I didn't get a library job I had applied for.

I kept a positive attitude though, kept at it, and focused on the positives.

The good...

1:  I enjoyed being in the Chesterton Photo exhibit and got to spend more time with my sister because of it.

2:  I wrote up the Tom Spencer interview for the POPP poetry book and even got quoted in the newspaper in the article about him. The assembly was successful as was the poetry reading at the library a few days later. I took pics and they came out pretty well.

3:  Our writers group gained new members and enjoyed productive meetings.

4:  An unexpected check came in the mail for some "volunteer" work I had done months earlier.

5:  Several people contacted me about taking pictures - for prom, senior photos, pregnancy pics, newborn baby, etc.

Better than good…

6:  Some advice and information I shared helped a young girl place first in the Indiana State Federation of Poetry Clubs Manningham Junior Division Poetry Contest. Earlier this week I officially met Emily, her mother, and brother and had lunch with them. They were very appreciative but I explained a few things. I belong to several writing groups and a photography club. Everyone I have encountered has been helpful and inspiring so I feel obligated to pass on what I learn and also be encouraging. But it’s not just obligation that motivates me – I honestly want others to succeed and be happy. I was thrilled that I made a difference in a young writer’s life and that I can continue to help her reach her goals. I know this is only the beginning for her and I’m excited to see what lies ahead.

Then something even more incredible happened!

7:  Highlights for Children bought one of my poems. I have been submitting to them for over 5 years. In fact, 3 poems were rejected along with the one they finally accepted for publication. A contract followed and then a check. This was on my bucket list so I am definitely celebrating and bragging!

More news today…

8.  On June 6th four Charter Members for the Ladies Auxiliary VFW Post 717 were honored at a luncheon for their 61 years of service. The article I wrote and pictures I took were published in the local paper. I also sent the information to the Ladies Auxiliary VFW Magazine. It would be nice if I can share their story across the country.

Summer is in full swing and I am swamped, figuratively and literally. I couldn’t be busier and ten days of heavy rains has also been challenging. I'm a happy camper though.