Of Mist and Magic cover design by Daniel Pennystone

Fairy tales…our childhood imaginations thrived on a steady diet of dragons and danger, legends and lore, myths and magic, perilous quests and forbidden love…We never outgrow our fondness for the fantastical. Our favorite tales evolve as our creative outlets expand. Alice and Wonderland fell down the futuristic rabbit hole of The Matrix, Pinocchio grew into the cybertronic shoes of Spielberg’s, A.I., and Shrek spun a pop culture phenomenon across the fairy tale realm. There have been countless classic retellings across generations–what are some of YOUR favorites?

I want to take this moment to encourage everyone out there to follow their dreams, their passions, their inner-voice that whispers wondrous tales of creative freedom! It’s never too late to find a more rewarding path, one that instills a sense of accomplishment beyond anything you’ve experienced. Be daring, be bold, be brave! Take chances, take a step forward, take on the world!

I’ve run the gamut of occupations, from bar tending during college *this fact will surprise no one*, to donning a lab coat in genetic engineering research and pharmaceutical development. I traded my white coat for a Special Agent training badge in forensics when recruited by the FBI–a dream job that would have swallowed my life whole, had I not come to my senses *I have a problem with authority, oh, and running*. So, I traded my badge for a suit, traveling near and far as a scientific consultant for big pharma–not the job for me *though the expense account and company car were nice perks, it wasn’t worth the daily aggravation*. Even as a marketing machine, pulling in a six-figure salary, I felt little satisfaction and zero reward.

My career went on hiatus whilst I raised two beautiful little girls. Though the joys of motherhood were beyond fulfilling, a part of me still yearned for something…more.

It wasn’t until 2013 that I FINALLY discovered the RIGHT path–one paved with words and music, creative adventures and endless imaginative possibilities *and coffee, lots of steamy, satisfying coffee*. So you see, it took me AWHILE before I found my calling, and now I can’t imagine doing anything else.

Anyone can do this, anyone can FIND that something that excites them, a passion that drives them. You just have to not let your dreams stay dreams…

IWSG, a community of brilliant writers led by Alex J. Cavanaugh, meets the first Wednesday of every month. Visit the Insecure Writer’s Support Group website and database! You’ll find  everything from writing to marketing, along with encouragement and support!