i can write to me all day - putting thoughts on paper, making notes, forming ideas. but this is different. always. it is writing to you - in book or blog - that demands an assurance from the Holy Spirit that is His leadership and my obedience. 

if i might encourage those who are writing, want to write, dream of writing. for me, on my writing journey, i am thirsty for knowledge of how others are writing and succeeding, pushing through, staying focused, and fulfilling their call to use words to bring about life change. 

i've shared how i get to write a book and how i am writing a book and want to tell you what happens in the book process. one that is still ongoing. one i'm in the thick of and am loving! i'm a fan of timelines and bullet points that get to the point and make it easy to follow. but i greatly appreciate the stories that give depth to the timeline. 

so here's my timeline and bullet points with the story woven in...

a city is better explored with gelato in one hand after a full belly. 

note: we walked vienna on the two hottest days in june 2017. we were visiting friends who gave us the grandest tour. when we put the fork down, we were walking a few blocks to pick up the spoon. 

here is day one itinerary:

take the train from the airport to the city center. super clean and easy. 

lunch at figlmuller. known for amazing schnitzel. eat downstairs in the cellar. 

gelato at castelletto. no sampling allowed. go with your gut. i'm certain you won't be disappointed. 

demel for melange coffee and apple strudel. melange is the german word for the viennese blend. similar to a cappuccino. the desserts were on display. it's an art here. and you are expected to sit and enjoy. it's a good thing. we had literally finished up our gelato outside this place to throw away the remnants and step into this dessert place. 

you keep eating, but allow me to pause and say we need more "sweet" places to meet up at rather than happy hour and meal time. places to sit down with chandeliers overhead and talk long over coffee and sweets without being rushed.

40 is not a big deal if you've already passed over. it's no longer a big deal to me either. i'm crossing over today. 

but if it's on the horizon -- if it's still in front of you -- ah, yes, you're the one i'm writing to. (40 year olds and up, stand with me as the COUNSEL of THOSE WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE) 

treat sleep as a gift rather than something you have to do. 

have a set wake up time and bedtime. your body will rejoice with each passing year that you don't spring on surprises. 

make up your bed when you get out of it.