Okay fine, my sanity is a bit questionable, but you know what I mean. A blogger/author friend of mine frequently posts lists of things she loves, so I thought I’d share four things that are helping transform my inner world:
- Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott – My best friend has been raving a
bout this book ever since I met her and although I’m only two chapters in, I can see why. It’s a must read for all writers. It has reminded me of the real reasons why I’m doing this whole novel writing thing: I love to write and I love to read and I want to write something others will love to read. Getting published will just be icing on the cake. (For those curious about the title, her dad once told her brother that he’d get through a school report on birds “bird by bird,” the same way we get through novels, paragraph by paragraph.) 
Dream Angels – This is an online community founded by musician Lee Safar for people who are focused on making their dreams come true. Dream Angels is all about choosing the path you want to live, working through the fear that stops you, and making it happen. A new site will launch this weekend on www.leesafar.com, but in the meantime, check out the Dream Angel Youtube channel where Miss Lee (as she likes to be called) posts video blogs about the Dream Angel process. 
- Tazo Chai Tea Latte Mix – This is the best stuff I’ve ever tasted. The smell and taste are inspirational and comforting at the same time. It’s like the woman from Mistress of Spices (if you haven’t seen the movie or read the book, it’s a good one) came into my life and gave me exactly the right blend I need for where I am right now. And best of all, it comes in decaf, so we don’t have to worry about me having a stroke or heart attack.
- All of you – Thank you to everyone who has volunteered to be a beta reader, listened to me talk about my book (especially those of you lucky enough to hear every single idea that springs to mind – good, bad and ugly), or supported me in any way. Writing can be lonely if you don’t have a strong support group – and I have one of the best.
So that is where I’m finding my strength and Zen right now. What about you? What works in your life? Please, share your tips and experiences in the comments. We can all use a few extra sources of positive energy in our lives.