Making the Most of It

What is the secret to happiness?

Welcome to this month's Insecure Writers Support Group!

It seems like most people think, If this happens, then I will be happy. Unfortunately, there's always another something that needs to happen. Does that mean happiness is unattainable?

I can't believe I've been living here in "paradise" for three months. I'm slowly getting acclimated to my new surroundings--and just like everywhere, some is good, some is awful. I compare living down here to Christmas Every Day syndrome. Vacation-mode all the time was turning my brain into a puddle of useless mush! I have a strong need to be productive. And with no purpose, I was deep down dwelling.

It's hard to get out there and get involved in new activities on your own. All the new is scary! And I've been dreading the whole application/interview process, remembering how hard it was before. No one wants to hire an experienced, ornery old lady (no sugar coating for me)

So, how can I be happy again?

Some may not agree with this, but I've been praying my heart out.

And thank the Lord, some positives descended to help me dig out of my depression hole. 

• I forced myself to go to a local game night and met some friendly folks. 
• My teaching certificate was approved! And I applied to not one, but two positions that fit my credentials.
• And I've made plans to travel to visit family and do a couple of book events. 
• I've even done some writing and yoga!

My impatient heart needed to slow down and enjoy some simple pleasures before diving back into a hectic job. Now, I have a lot to look forward to, and that makes me happy!

The Key to Happiness:

No matter how low you feel, there's a surprise blessing right around the corner.

I've known this all my life, but when I'm sad, it's easy to forget. It's hard to get through the tough times, but the rainbows have been out in full force trying to tell me good days are coming.

Thanks for bearing with me. You all are a big part of helping me get through it all. And I hope this happy ending brings you some positive vibes!

I hope summer was good to you!

I'm ready for Fall.

Expand your Reach

Hey, Writers!

Welcome to the Insecure Writer Support Group - August 2025.

So, anyone still blogging? Well, of course we are--we're the diehards, and I love you guys! But if we want to reach more people, we must grow and change. Though at my age, that sounds ridiculous, and I've never been a fan of change (ugh!), I'm happy to report these changes are not as bad as they sound. I bet you already know some great ways to reach out, but by organizing my ideas and encouraging others, I also encourage myself.

Since I love charts, I'm presenting this in chart format...

I'm sure you know more and better ways to communicate with other writers and readers. I would love to hear your thoughts and advice! I also know each platform has its drawbacks (bots, AI, haters, etc) Life isn't a picnic, and as writers, we tend to worry about annoying ants and sunburn more than the charming company. Something I need to work on! Worry less and look for the positives!

If you're on Instagram, check out the Writer.Friends.Challenge I'm participating this month and hopefully longer... The lovely hostess, @susanleighneedham comes up with prompts for every day -- and puts it on each month! @mjfifield and @chrysfey are steady participants. Check it out!

Hope your August is steamy goodness (and not a hot mess!)

The Joys of Florida

Happy July IWSG!

I'll start with an update on my first month back in Florida. Here is a pro-con list:

• 

  pelican in the ocean

  I love all the wildlife sightings and hearings (the frogs & birds are awesome!)
• I hope I don't see any alligators up close while walking my dogs!

• I'm learning how to slow down
• I have to since the elderly choose their own speeds in every lane... haha

• I actually enjoyed my first visit to the beach by myself - people watching is primo!
• The second time, I went with my son and felt bad we had to leave early because the rising humidity literally took my breath away

• I'm lucky my blood type/skin type discourages bug bites
• Unfortunately, my poor husband is a magnet for them
• I'm taking time to walk the dogs every night (w/hubs too!) and exercise/stretch every morning--trying to be a healthier me
• I forgot about some of the negatives that are popping up--heat rash, dry eyes from the constant fans, and warm faucet water (it never gets cold!)
• I love how laid back it is here--I've gotten creative with many of my clothes by cutting off sleeves and long pants. Plus getting ready is easier with light make-up and easy beach hair days!
• I hate shaving  =P
• I don't mind the unpredictable weather--rainy-sunny-stormy-sunny--we take our chances since the rain doesn't usually last long, and the temps have been milder than most of the rest of the country! Plus, so many pretty rainbows =)
• Wondering if I am cursed as a lightning strike exploded the street light in front of our house, and we had a leak in the guest bedroom (brand new house!!) -- all while we were out to a sunny dinner at the time!
• We are really enjoying all the fun, non-chain restaurants
• Everything is way more expensive in Florida!

my fun fish pencil cup!

Overall, it's going pretty well. We're figuring out what works or what we need to do to make things work for us. I've also done some writing and visited the local downtown with a nice little bookstore. My next writing goal is to finish one of my books and have a book party with our new friends!

Hope you are surviving the fierce temps and have a

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!