Skiing went pretty much the same way, except I crashed into a tree. Now it's the sport I do best (after many more crashes).
The first time I tried out for my high school dance team, my arms flapped like a condor attempting flight. Ew, it was bad. Embarrassing, too. But I really did want to make that team, so I drove my curvy sixteen-year-old body to a ballet class of slim twelve year olds. Each week I humbled myself, working on the basics of movement and routine. The next year I did make the team, but I always had to work a little harder to perfect routines.
Twenty-five years later, my husband can still make me blush, teasing me about the awkwardness of our first kiss... (Okay, best practice ever!)
Writing progressed much the same way. I created some really, truly awful short stories. But again I practiced, filling volumes and volumes of notebooks with my handwritten scrawl. The sentences bubbled on the page with the pressure of my handwriting, and I filled every speck of white space with words. Oh, how I wanted to learn how to write! Success began with a published poem, a magazine short story, a contest win, and eventually three novels. I even published my first manuscript, because I continued working and working and working on it. And I'm still practicing.
Sometimes I envy those people who seem to do things right the first time. But I know I'll get there eventually!
First time surfing--still haven't mastered this sport! |
Neat side panels....NEW FOLLOWER.
ReplyDeleteIf you need another book, try my giveaway. :)
Book Giveaway on my blog….THE WICKED WIVES.
Stop by and complete the entry form if you like.
http://silversolara.blogspot.com/2012/01/give-away-of-wicked-wives.html
It's really so rare to do anything perfectly the first time. We might as well enjoy the learning curve--bumps, stumbles and all!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Jen :)
ReplyDeleteI still crash into objects with my bicycle. Practice makes us better if it doesn't kill us in the process. I'm impressed that you're even trying to surf!
ReplyDeleteOkay, as a Missourian in the midst of winter, that surfing pic looks fantastic! I love what you said about selling your first book because of revision, Sydney...There's just never a dead-end with any book!
ReplyDelete