Comment from suzanne eller
Time: July 9, 2008, 6:17 am

Happy birthday, Allison. Today is also my son and daughter’s birthday. 25!

My goals are to write. And to hire others do the non-writing things so that I can write. One thing at a time, as my budget is small, small, small. But I’ve started and I see the light at the end of the tunnel, and it’s not a train. I’ve been so scattered as I try to write, market, publicize, arrange speaking events, ta dah ta dee. . .

I made two very large steps in the past month, which I’ll share in the future, but it took the load of arranging speaking events off my plate, and the other step is still unfolding, but it’s in marketing.

I long to write every day.

Comment from Tracy
Time: July 9, 2008, 6:28 am

Happy Birthday, Allison!! May the Lord give you an extra special day and a year full of abundant blessings. (I’m sending a box of cyber-chocolates your way - they’re the most delicious ever, but totally fat-, cholesterol-, calorie-, carb-, and GUILT-free! Hope you enjoy! LOL!)

In the last few weeks, I’ve been working on time management and trying to rearrange schedules so I, too, can write more. I’m happiest, and feel like I’m doing exactly what I’m supposed to be doing, when I write. But because we are so dependent on my income, I’ve had to focus on so many other things to generate moola.

We’re making changes, though, and best of all, my mindset is changing.

Comment from Connie Pombo
Time: July 9, 2008, 7:23 am

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALLISON! Do you see the candles flickering on the cake that I baked? (It’s double-decker chocolate with mocha cappuccino frosting!) YUMMY!

I’ve been organizing my office for the past two days. I’m amazed–shocked really–at this writer’s panache for writing on: receipts, envelopes, Starbucks napkins, and yes–even toilet paper (in a pinch!). Now they are all in manilla folders, labeled, and properly filed away. Phew!

Plans:

1) Speaking will be in my area of expertise ONLY (breast cancer events–months of June and October).

2) Writing: Retreat days every two weeks (alone, by myself, in a remote place)–no laptop! Just my thoughts and my Bible.

3) Hire an Assistant: I thought that was hubby while he was recuperating. No such luck (he won’t even log on e-mail addresses). What was I thinking?

4) Answer e-mail: Twice a day ONLY. Turn away from the screen!

Ah…I feel better already. Great post, Allison!

HUGS!

Comment from Cheryl Barker
Time: July 9, 2008, 7:58 am

Allison, this must be a popular day for birthdays — I have a nephew celebrating a birthday today, too. Hope yours is wonderful!

My goals at this point are writing related, too. I’m much more of a beginner than you gals on the blog team, though, so my goals reflect that — things like attending a writers conference, improving in the craft through reading more, writing more, etc. My goal is also to persevere and trust God with the results of my writing efforts. Easier said than done at times, right?

Comment from Karen Power
Time: July 9, 2008, 1:53 pm

I have spent the past weeks–especially this week refocusing on the dream that God gave me. I’ve been repainting the barn (i.e. my business web site) and reconnecting with some amazing Christian speakers and writers. I’m also redefining my boundaries around time and projects trying to find a way for fun and fellowship instead of working 24/7. Very refreshing!

I’m looking forward seeing what God does in the next couple of weeks and months. Lots of GOOD THINGS in store and coming down the pike.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR LADY! And many moooooorrrrreeee

Comment from Cheryl Wrght
Time: July 10, 2008, 4:47 am

WOO HOO! Happy Birthday Allison.

If I knew how to insert bells and whistles, balloons and streamers, I would. So, in the absence of that know that my birthday greetings come to you with love and admiration, wrapped in prayer that God will bestow immeasurable grace and blessings on you, the quinessential Baby Boomer as you continue to live your life in the light of His will.

Have a wonderful day.

Comment from Cheryl Wrght
Time: July 10, 2008, 7:37 am

I saw it was your birthday and I hastily scrolled to the comment section to send you greetings.

Having just read the whole post I share my plans for the future:

1. Minimize surfing, subscribing to and read online newsletters and checking incoming emails to the detriment of my writing.
2. Write 1000 words or four pages or one chapter each week for each of the two books I am supposed to be writing.
3. Update my 3 blogs twice a week.
4. Re-enforce and strengthen my boundaries to accomplish more writing.
5. Pray and seek opportunities for speaking.

Thank you for asking the question and inspiring me to revisit some of the goals I set earlier this year.

If God spares my life, I too, will be celebrating my 53rd birthday on September 17th. Your question prompted me to get a jump on my usual birthday reflection.

Comment from Susan R.
Time: July 10, 2008, 7:49 am

Happy Birthday!

I am in the middle of working on my Bachelor’s in History with a minor in English. I would love to be a writer, but I’m kind of “waiting” to see what happens. Many times I say I’m going to do something and the Lord changes my direction. Originally I was going to major in Psychology, but ended up changing course. Once I’m clearer I will share.

Comment from Flea
Time: July 10, 2008, 2:47 pm

Happy birthday! This seems to be the theme of Boomers at the moment - simplify. It’s a good goal. I turned 40 last fall and my goal was to get my master’s. So far so good. I don’t set many goals. One at a time will do nicely.

Pingback from Boomer Babes Rock » What She Said. . .
Time: July 11, 2008, 6:42 am

[…] BIRTHDAY GREETINGS! […]

Comment from Dotsie
Time: July 11, 2008, 7:00 am

Another birthday wisher popping in. Hope you had a great day Allison!

This isn’t specific, but I’m touching base each morning with my gracious Lord and contemplating the day prior and how to spend the new one. The results are amazing. I fret less and enjoy more.

Comment from dianne
Time: July 11, 2008, 7:25 am

Do belated wishes count extra? I hope so! What a great idea to do this kind of planning and dreaming on your birthday. I hope this turns out to be a wonderful year for you.

I spent the majority of last week (on vacation from my day job) writing and refocusing so this challenge is timely.