Grab a cup of coffee and let's get to know each other. I set out on this journey about five years ago and it has been a learning experience. Maybe you can learn from my mistakes, and help me avoid making more. Two heads are better than one, right?

I have dreamed of being a writer for as long as I can remember. While other kids were outside playing catch during summer vacation, I was hidden away in my room. If I wasn't reading, I was writing. Teachers encouraged me. I even had a couple of stories published in anthologies. Then college took up a lot of time, and the reality of working full-time took over. My dreams of writing were replaced by dreams of owning a home, buying a new car and having a family. I decided to put off my dreams of writing until later.

Then, I spent my 36th birthday at the visitation for my best friend. She was 35 years old. It occurred to me as I sat there in the church, staring at her closed casket - at the beautiful portrait of her sitting atop it - that later was not a promise, but a possibility. Terri's death was a wake up call. I realized that I could no longer put off my dreams. It was time to start working to make my dream of being a writer a reality.

I began simply, with an old computer and a dial up connection. I sold a couple of articles, then started writing fiction. It has been difficult, learning the craft and the ropes while working full-time with a family, but it has been worth it. I am living my dream, and setting a good example for my teenage daughter. I urge you to join me on this journey, no matter what your dream might be. Together, we will make our dreams a reality!

Mike Blakely . . . and me, winning an award at the Ozark Creative Writers Conference. Woo-hoo!!