I am a teacher, editor, freelance writer, former caregiver, and the author of You Want Me To Do What? – Journaling for Caregivers (Tate Publishing). I am published in Voices of Caregivers; Hip Mama; the Oakland Tribune; the Contra Costa Times; the Danville Weekly; Staying Sane When You’re Dieting; Small Press Review; Dramatics Magazine; Career, Caregiving, Self-Care NCDA Monograph; 24/7—a caregiving anthology; We Care: Families of Loved Ones Magazine; The Sun and numerous e-zines. I facilitate journaling workshops for caregivers and publish Writer Advice, www.writeradvice.com.

How did you get to where you are now?

QUICK ANSWER: I put one foot in front of the other, one day at a time.

One opportunity often leads to another, and life is an exciting adventure when I embrace what is right in my life. I try to stay open to all opportunities and am still learning which ones work and which ones are better for someone else.

How do you see yourself differently now than you did 10 years ago?

Ten years ago, I was a dutiful daughter, caring for my mother who did not need a caregiver. She was fine to live alone as long as I came by every day, took out her garbage, drove her to her appointments, did her grocery shopping, took her places, opened her mail....

I cringe writing that. I almost lost myself for a while, but journaling saved me more than once. Writing gave me perspective on my efforts to be super-daughter. It restored my sanity. 

Ten years ago, I was growing into the woman I am now. I hope my mother would be proud of the fact that she inspired me to write You Want Me to Do WHAT? Journaling for Caregivers.

 

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

So many possibilities--I see a swirl more than a destination. Life is what happens while you are making other plans. There is always more to learn, and there are always new adventures to enjoy.

Dear Lynn,

In the end it will be okay. If it's not okay, it's not the end. ;)

P & M

I respect women who chart their own course in life. I respect those who find self-acceptance and peace. There are many authors I admire. For some reason, I'm hesitant to name names. It's so nice to know I can edit this later.