Writing is fun, but difficult at times

There are a lot of things I am uncertain about in my life, but I know with certainty that I thoroughly enjoy writing. Growing up and on into my adult life I always enjoyed writing, whether it was creative, nonfiction, or research. It is absolutely freeing to put your thoughts and ideas into words. I love seeing something that began as a small, fleeting thought turn into a glorious story. 

The other thing freeing about writing is that no one can really judge me. My writings may have some awkward phrasing, incorrect punctuation or spelling, and do not appeal to everyone, but I like my writings and they have not yet been seen by the critics and remain pure. I somehow get a glimpse into my soul when I am hovering over a keyboard or pen, tirelessly putting out what is in my head. 

If I could finish a book and make somewhat of a living off my writings my life would be complete. Everything I love and want to do can be accomplished and shared through writing. Also, I thoroughly enjoy volunteering, afternoons outdoors (not in a stuffy office), and a flexible schedule which I can have by writing. So far I have started two books.. and it is really hard to stay consistent with my writing as well as mentally tolling to find the way you to say what you want to say. I do really well and knock out a couple of pages one day, then lose inspiration. The first book I started is a murder mystery, then yesterday I started a children's sci-fi story. I think starting the second book was a really good decision because it allowed me to completely switch worlds so if I get tired or bored with writing I can switch to a new world and be good to go, well, for a while.

I am afraid for the day when the critics do get a hold of my writings. I hate the idea of someone picking a part my each and every word thinking they have the right to demean my art. But, if the day ever comes that I do finish my book and it is being reviewed by a big wig in the New York Times, I guess I will deal with those fears then. 

That is what most of time consists of now-a-days. Helping mom around the house, running errands, playing Rollercoaster Tycoon, and writing my books! I am glad to find productivity in each day and hope that my momentum keeps increasing, my vision clears, and my work ethic pushes ahead so that I may finish what I have started. 

Wishing you prosperity in the things you love,

Alyssa

Hard to believe it's been so long since I've graduated

Sometimes I cannot believe it has been 9 months since I graduated college... I feel like I was just running weekly SGA meetings and seeing my friends on a daily basis. No one really explains to you what a hard adjustment it is from that life.. College is the place you meet best friends, learn what it is to be independent and a lot of times where you make your first home. Stetson was definitely home for me. It certainly has it's flaws, but you look past those at all of the good because there is just something different about the Stetson community. I really miss my ridiculously busy schedule, feeling like I could accomplish whatever I put my mind to, and my amazing friend group that became stronger each day.

Since leaving Stetson it's like starting all over again... I am reminded of our move to Florida my senior year of high school when I didn't know anyone and felt like I had no idea what I was doing. I hope that I will find my "Stetson" soon so that I can move on with my life and find productivity in each day. That is what is hardest for me... I feel really bad (in general and about myself) when I am not productive. I have got to find something to do that will keep me busy and help me fill the hours of the day. I feel as if I have accomplished a lot and grown but at the same time I feel completely lost and like I've squandered the past 9 months. I am nervous about what my family thinks about my decisions and hate the thought of my peers thinking they are better than me since I am taking longer to settle down.. But then I decide those things should not matter. I am happy and proud of myself for not settling. I have seen this beautiful country, discovered cool jobs and met new friends. Now it is just time to move along to the next thing.. just so I can find what else I don't want to do. Or maybe find the perfect fit! You never know.

While being home I wanted to work on art projects, help mom keep the house clean, and take photography nature walks but this cold weather makes me want to stay indoors! If you have any ideas about fun projects to start while remaining warm and inside I would greatly appreciate them- please comment on this post!

Anyways, I hope you are doing well and finding productivity and purpose with each passing day.

Until next time,
Alyssa

Bah Bah Bah Bah Bah I'm Bummin' It

I'm still living the gypsy life.

Trying to figure out this little thing called life... I've been helping my mom out the past few months. Between her surgery and moving I kept really busy from November through January. This month has definitely slowed down though. Time for me to really think about what I want to do and start moving forward with a career. I have applied for several jobs, but so far have no luck. Also, I don't want to get too settled because I don't know where I want to live just yet, so I'm taking things slow.

My grandpa has a project he needs my help with, so I decided I am going to head to Louisiana to spend a few months working with him. I have friends coming to visit in a couple of weeks so I'm setting early March as my moving date.

Then I have a friend in Tampa looking for a roommate, so I'm considering going to spend a year living there with her. I think it is important to travel and experience different things in this stage of my life before I settle down with a family. We were roommates in the past and had a blast together, so living with her is an opportunity I don't really want to pass up.

Overall, I am really enjoying this time with my family. I love helping my mom look for the perfect piece of furniture, and teaching Austin keyboarding. It has been a really good experience. My little Austy is going to be all grown up before too long, so I'm taking in all of the moments we are sharing together. I've also applied to volunteer with Girl's on the Run and a recreational area nearby.

I started writing a book this week, I have it all laid out so hopefully I can write it fairly quickly and self publish it. t is a suspenseful thriller novel! Once I'm finished I'll let you know! And hopefully you'll try a copy.

So life goes on! I'm having some good experiences and super lucky to have parents that support me and care about me discovering my dreams. I hope everyone reading is doing well and enjoying life! It doesn't matter what you're doing as long as your happy and making the most of your time.

Til next time,
Alyssa