It was another creative and enjoyable year with young writers across Wake County, North Carolina. I did notice there were several stories with chickens and a few about the Minnesota Vikings, something I have never experienced before. You never know where young writers' imaginations will take them, which makes it so much fun. Writing is a wonderful way for young people and adults to express themselves. It is a chance to be quiet in a world full of noise. As a child, when I faced challenges, I often found a place to write. My favorite place was under our silver maple tree in the backyard. There is nothing like creating a whole new world with your mind. I still love doing it today.
A few years ago, I got to know a brave and feisty woman who served with the American Red Cross during the Vietnam War. Her stories brought me laughter and tears. I shared many of them in a short story, "Not For The Faint of Heart." It was a finalist in the 2021 Rose Post Creative Nonfiction Competition. I tell young writers I still work on my writing, just like they do. Find your favorite place to write. You might be surprised where your imagination will take you.
Diane