I’ve loved being a part of this class. Your posts have been insightful and encouraging. I hope you all keep your blogs going. I plan on following all of you over the summer. My blog is public. I’m posting a link to it on my Facebook page and will convert to a paid site at the end of the term.

One trick that helps me think about my work in a different way is to copy or download my posts into one document, sorted by date. That way, I can see my progress and growth over time. It’s always my goal to improve my writing and learn to apply analytical thinking to my work, as I would to another writer’s submissions. This process helps me do just that.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this course as much as I have. Dave is a wonderful teacher. Over the past two years, he has fostered a growth mindset in both my work and in how I see myself. I feel fortunate to have had his guidance. How about you?

I’ve been giving a great deal of thought to writing since starting this blog. In less than two weeks, I’ll graduate from Clackamas Community College. My path to graduation started in 1974. It’s been a long journey for me.

As I’m also retiring from work on that same day, I’ve spent many hours thinking about what my next chapter would be about. My husband and I will travel, I’ll take more photographs, continue with my crafts, visit family. What else? That’s the real question. I’ve been so busy for so long, I haven’t allowed myself to listen to the voice of the writer in my head.

One of my students challenged me this week. He asked me to post about an audio book he recommended. He and I traded book recommendations about two months ago. I suggested he listen to “The Long Earth” by Terry Pratchett and Stephen Baxter. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006O41HTO/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1 He suggested that I listen to “Hatchet” by Gary Paulson. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Hatchet+Series&i=digital-text&ref=nb_sb_noss_2

I liked listening to this story. I’ve been interested in survival and outdoor experiences for many years. I used to teach first-aid and what to do if help is delayed. So, this story drew me in and kept me engaged.

At first, I could not really relate to the main character. I had little in common with a young teenage boy who was angry at the world. However, as the story developed, I found myself learning from the character and anxious for his safety. I laughed at some of the situations he found himself in, marveled at the way his mind worked and cheered when he reached each milestone. I really enjoyed the author’s writing style. I’m glad I listened to the story and to my student’s suggestion.

I believe what’s next for me is to return to writing and try to overcome my hesitation and fear of putting my work out to be reviewed by others. I think I’m ready to take a leap into the unknown! Do you have any suggestions for me on this next part of my journey?