I’ve worn a lot of titles in my life: Professional ones like analyst, negotiator, supervisor. Personal ones like daughter, sister, cousin, and my favorite of all: Mom. Until recently, I never really considered myself a “writer”, at least not in the career or professional sense of the word…  Even though writing is what I do.  It’s what I’ve always done.  It’s what I’ve always loved doing. And now, it’s what pays the bills. I’ve kept a journal for as long as I can remember. Made lists of lists. Took detailed classroom / meeting notes. And don’t get me started on school supplies — oh lawd!  I just thought I was a nerd (and proud of it).  It wasn’t until I turned 40 that I started to really claim the title of “writer.” As long as I can remember, I have kept a journal and journaling helps me slow my mind down enough to process what I’m feeling. Then in my late 20s I started writing poetry, which gave me permission to actually feel those emotions. Even back in high sc...