The Power of Words

No matter your political views, President Obama's inauguration speech today was a vivid reminder of the power of words to touch, move and unite people. His words inspired hope in my heart and a feeling of connection with strangers across not only our nation, but our world as a whole.

Not only are words powerful when said aloud to others -- the words we say to ourselves are also incredibly powerful, perhaps the most powerful of all. What words do you say to yourself? Do you lift yourself up, encourage yourself, push yourself to be better and learn and grow? Or do you beat yourself up, discourage your ideas before they get a chance to live, and destroy your dreams with negative thoughts?

What do you want from your life? How will you achieve those things? What words can you surround yourself with to fill your thoughts and speech and life with positivity?

It is also incredibly important to write down your dreams and goals. Hang them where you see them every day. Write down powerful mantras -- what about "Yes I Can!" -- for yourself.

Today was an exciting, empowering and hope-filled day for our nation. Extend that sense of optimism and courage to other aspects of your life -- today and every day.

Article Published in Ventura County Star

I wrote a short piece about my experiences studying abroad in England, which was published today in my hometown newspaper. Perfect timing, as it was nearly a year ago -- January 7 -- when I left for my semester abroad in Norwich at the University of East Anglia.

Here's a link to the article:
http://www.venturacountystar.com/news/2008/dec/28/young-writers-study-in-england-unforgettable/

Article on Trojan Entrepreneur

I published an article titled "Turning Disadvantages into Advantages" on the Trojan Entrepreneur website. My thoughts about building a successful business are also very true about writing. Enjoy!

http://trojanentrepreneur.com/2008/11/turning-disadvantages-into-advantages/

Guest on Radio Show

Recently I was honored to be a guest on The Homeschool Companion Radio Show to talk about the cartoon I write for Listen Magazine, "Windermere Blogosphere." I also talked with the delightful hosts Rose and Candy about following my passion, overcoming rejection and disappointment, and lessons I've learned through my nonprofit literacy foundation "Write On!". You can listen to the full interview at this link:

http://www.lifetalk.net/media/HSCompanion/mp3/HS080924.mp3

Big thanks to Rose, Candy, and my amazing editor Celeste Perrino-Walker!

Story Published in "Faith, Hope, and Fiction"

I wrote a story about my experience studying abroad in England last semester called "Learning from a Distance." It is featured this month in the wonderful e-zine "Faith, Hope, and Fiction" -- a delightful and inspiration-filled publication for everyone who loves stories that tug on the heartstrings. Check it out (and subscribe to this wonderful free monthly publication) at www.FaithHopeandFiction.com.

The Ultimate Dog Lover Book

Wanted to let you all know that I have a story published in the just-released book The Ultimate Dog Lover. The book includes dozens of true, heartwarming stories about the special bond between people and dogs. It would be the perfect gift for any dog-loving people in your life!

Neat Writing Site

Who says writing is a solitary profession?

The people at "WeBook" think writing can -- and should -- be a fun, collaborative endeavor. The site features forums for writers to receive feedback on their work, avenues for readers to critique new writing, and provides a way for writers to work together, virtually, on projects. They even publish projects by "WeBook" authors!

Check it out: http://www.webook.com/