Dear Al
I'm fascinated why someone would decide to become a writer at your stage of life? How do you get started? Where do your ideas come from? I have thought about writing myself but earning a living seems to get in the way. I can't wait to order your book. You said it would be ready for Christmas. What happened?
Ashley

Dear Ashley
Whew, I'm glad you got that off your chest. Just kidding obviously. Thanks for your interest in me and my writing. I remember about a year ago, maybe longer, I bought a biography of John Steinbeck. While reading the book I was struck by something he said in response to a question from a reporter. He was asked about how it felt to a successful author. His reply was something on the order of he didn't think of himself as an author, but a writer. He said writers write, and that's how they learn their craft and become successful. He wasn't sure what an author did, but he was sure he did it poorly for a long time before he did it well. That month I sat at my keyboard to write with a purpose and not worry about the details.

I can't tell you exactly when I first began thinking I would like to write, but it was long before I did it. There were hurdles to overcome and many still but I tackle them one at a time. I find each day I sit to write I feel just a bit more comfortable with expressing myself freely and letting my imagination run. At first all I wrote was non-fiction because it's all I knew to do, but now I realize that by writing fiction I can create what I need to make a story fun and interesting. I started reading books on the subject by other writers and announcing my intentions to others to help keep me on track. Focus has been a challenge for me my whole life so I write in short sessions, do other things, and come back when I feel I can.

Stage of life has little to do with it. Dreams are ageless, so if you have a dream to do something and continue to think about it everyday, there comes a time in your life when that thought becomes action. If it doesn't it wasn't something you really wanted. I was talking to my son over the holidays and he said something interesting to me. He made the comment that I had talked about writing and I actually did it. He said that most of my life I eventually did what I said I was going to do, and he said that was something he admired. I thought it was very nice of him to say that. Some people say they will do things but for some reason or another they never get around to it. I've been around people long enough to understand that side, which doesn't mean I like it.

I let earning a living get in the way for forty years, and you know what? I've always been able to earn a living but I have nothing to show for it except frustration. I feel by pursuing this long delayed dream, at least I'll feel a sense of satisfaction that I've done it. I sincerely want to do it well, and you know what? I will. Now, if a lot of nice people like you like my stories and buy my books it will give me time to write a lot more. You don't need help with ideas. They're all around you. Just start and you'll find your imagination and creativity will take over.

Yes, I did tell you, and about anybody else who would listen, the book would be available for Christmas. Sorry, that's what I thought. But it should be out real soon. Some things I have no control over. I'm sure you understand that part. Happy New Year!
Al