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When I began to be serious about leaving my ex and getting a divorce, one of the things I did was to make a list of things I would never do if I stayed married to him. I knew that if I stayed with him, he would keep me too timid to do any of the things on my list, and they were things that I really wanted to do. I've still got that list, somewhere in my writings, but I still haven't done many of those things; instead, I have accomplished other things.

I do remember that two of the things I had on my list, near the top, were to walk the Appalachian Trail, and to drive to Alaska. I have adjusted the Appalachian Trail to walking at least a part of it; I'm not sure I have the stamina left for walking the entire trail! However, my new son-in-law is enthusiastic about it, and has promised that he will walk with me, when I do decide to go. As for the drive to Alaska, he and his family have done it, and would be more than willing for me to go along with them if they decide to do it again. They have family there, and visit every couple of years or more.

Another dream I have had for years is to have a book published. I have written several short stories, and am expanding the first one into a full-length book. Maybe, if i live long enough, I'll still achieve that dream. I also have written poetry for years, and hope someday to publish a book of poetry. I have, a couple of times, sent a poem in to a contest, but have found that most of these that are advertised are publishers who will put almost anything in a book, provided the writer buys their book! A niece of mine actually bought one of the books, and was thrilled that her poem was on the first page. This is the same publisher who writes me, year after year, telling me that my poem (the very same one I first submitted!) has won and will be published, and offering me the book! (They also send blurbs about their expensive conference, inviting me to come be awarded a prize, etc. So now I just throw their information away.)

There are also several places I would love to visit: Australia, especially the outback; Scotland and Ireland, especially Loch Ness; Venice, Rome, France, and Hawaii. Here in the States, I'd love to visit the Tetons, California, Pennsylvania, New York, and even Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon. Seeing some of the places that I've read about so many times would really be enjoyable to me. Actually, if I had the time and money, I think I would drive through every state in the Continental US, taking my time along the way and enjoying the drive.

There may be other things that I had on my list that I can't think of right now, but these would be enough to make me "one happy camper" if I could achieve even a third of them! I am now a senior citizen, but that does NOT mean that I should stop dreaming and hoping. One of these days.......

Learn more about this author, Barbara A. Black.
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