I planted some seeds in the spring. I applied for a grant from the Anne McKee Artists Fund for my book Gut Instincts, to pay for editing and for the accountability to finish it so there was a book to actually edit. I submitted an essay entitled A Father By My Name to a WOW! Women On Writing contest. And I tried to quit my job by giving the following notice: “I think I’m going to go disappear into nature for awhile and write.” Key West was getting warmer and I felt the pull of literally greener pastures. As right as it felt at the time, I couldn’t sleep that night, which is unusual. The decision kept flipping around in me all unsettled like. I retracted said resignation the next morning. A few weeks later I’m offered a promotion — from my already cool job of playing games in swimming pools at resorts to regional manager. May first was my first day.

On May 12th I get to go to the awards ceremony for the Anne Mckee Fund and see the positive reaction to the name of my book and the inspiration the board of directors felt from my application. I’m handed a $500 check for half the grant award and tell myself do not spend this on a tattoo. I deposit it into its own savings account, just to make sure.

End of May I receive an email saying my essay has advanced to the top 40. The first time I submitted to this contest I didn’t advance at all. The second time, I made it to the top 40, but no further. This was my third entry and in June I see through tears of joy (bawling is more like it!) I’ve made it to the top 10 list, out of 244 entries. Regardless of where it places–first, second, third or one of the seven runner ups–my essay will be published, my bio and photo featured on their site along with an interview on their blog The Muffin. First, second and third come with cash prizes and if I’m fortunate enough to make it, I’m definitely getting a tattoo!

All these seeds sprouted–even the job one I tried to uproot and transplant–blooming in brilliance and then handed back to me, like a long-stemmed rose. The fact that I’ve touched someone with my words, took some chances and put myself out there, and went up a few steps in my resume` while trying to go a different direction are all pretty incredible gifts already.

Can’t wait to see what summer has in store. . .