I’m pressed for time this evening, so I apologize in advance for the short post. I simply want to take a moment to mention that one of my short stories for kids – called “Conquering the Hurdles” – was sold to Stories that Lift and is now published on the website.

“Conquering the Hurdles” is an inspirational story about a girl and the valuable lesson she learns from her younger sister who has Downs Syndrome.

It’s a story dear to my heart. I have had several friends with Downs Syndrome or other disabilities over the years, and each one of them has taught me something unique. I’m a better person because of every one of those relationships. My desire is that this story will hit home with many individuals and families, and serve as a reminder that strength and beauty come in all kinds of shapes, sizes and forms. We are surrounded with inspiration and valuable life lessons from which we can grow and learn, if only we pay attention. Sometimes those lessons come when and from where we least expect them.

Anyhow, if you’re interested in reading the story, visit “Conquering the Hurdles” on the Stories that Lift website. I appreciate reader input, so please feel free to rate and comment on the story.

And, of course, pass the link along to anyone you think will enjoy it!

All right! So I started this blog to write about writing, and then I became so busy with my writing that I neglected to write about it. Make sense? Don’t worry. I’m still trying to figure it out too.

Not that I’m complaining about being busy with my writing projects. I wouldn’t want it any other way. After all, I am a freelance writer. Those projects are my livelihood. And, right now, I am blessed to have a writing project – a nonfiction book that I’ll share more about once it’s complete – that satisfies much more than monetary needs. It also appeals to the natural teacher inside of me that desires to share knowledge and help others learn and grow. This project allows me the opportunity and the platform to do that.

Have I mentioned that I really love my job? I do.

But… in addition to being a freelance writer, I’m also a devoted wife and the mom of two awesome kids. Oh yeah, and I’m working on fulfilling my dream of becoming a novelist. Somewhere in there – in my free time – I’m also trying to actually have a life! If my fairy godmother were to appear today, would I ask for millions of dollars or an elaborate home? Nope. I’d ask for more hours, quiet and uninterrupted hours, in my day to accomplish everything and still have time left to relax and enjoy my family. The sad thing is, I’d probably just look at those extra hours as excuses to add even more things to my already full plate!

Since my fairy godmother is apparently on vacation and a thirteenth, fourteenth, and fifteenth hour haven’t been miraculously added to my clock, I am resolving to become a better steward of my time and energy. Today, with the help of my handy dandy Outlook schedule, I managed to have one of the most productive – possibly THE most – and least stressful work day I’ve had all year long. All because I simply took five minutes this morning to plot out a rough schedule of what I needed to accomplish and create self-imposed deadlines. There’s something about seeing what I need to do and how much I’ve actually completed to motivate me to work harder and more efficiently. Not only did I finish everything I needed to for the day, I also managed to squeeze in a few extras. And I had time to simply enjoy playing with my kids at the end of the day. That matters to me most of all.

So, I’ll be back tomorrow. But only after I finish creating my new schedule!