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THERE IS NO TOMORROW "There is no tomorrow" I blurted out one day at the family dinner table. I didn't want to hear the words, "I'll do it tomorrow" from my husband or two sons ever again. It was exhausting, keeping track of their duties and responsibilities which they kept putting off doing, and I had to be the nag. I tried to explain, "There is no time like the present. There won't be a better time. Consequences will ensue when deadlines matter." I was single-handedly on a mission to stamp out procrastination. This same philosophy applies to our bigger goals in life, not just the mundane. TODAY is the day to start writing that book or whatever it is that you've been putting off. It's time to go beyond your comfort level, be vulnerable, and follow your passion. Writers can procrastinate for years or even a lifetime. Their book may never get started, or the project may get started but never finished. Taking baby steps in the right direction will help you accomplish your goal. Writers write - so, the first step is to start writing. You don't need to worry about marketing or publishing at this point. Next, join a writing group. It will provide you with valuable information and the necessary moral support. Whenever you invest time in learning about the craft, it will be helpful. There are webinars you can attend while staying at home in your pj's and slippers. Or, you can travel to conferences to meet like- minded individuals and learn what is going on in the industry. Even if you don't plan on publishing anything, but want to write because it's cathartic, start writing. It's just like anything else; once you take the initial steps, it becomes a whole lot easier to continue with your newfound interest. I followed my advice. My goal was to write a memoir. I joined the Four Seasons Writers' Club and other writing groups, attended classes, and did online research. I also set a deadline for attaining that goal — December 2019. What an accomplishment when my books arrived in time to give to family and friends for Christmas gifts — just as I had planned! Join us at our next Writers' Club meeting on the second Tuesday of the month in the RCN Conference Room from 1:30 to 3 pm. For more info, email mlarchibald@ mac.com, or zehnercorked@gmail.com. ~ Andrea Zehner FOUR SEASONS BREEZE | APRIL 2020 43 The rainbow is a powerful symbol that represents beauty, balance, peace, and hope. As such, we believe it is a perfect representation for our group. We are residents who also happen to be gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender. The rainbow is so perfect because it really fits our group's diversity in terms of race, gender, ages, and beliefs. While we strive to serve the interests of our members, we do welcome all supportive homeowners and encourage everyone to attend any of our functions. We believe you'll enjoy our company. Everyone leads busy lives (even at our age!) and we often find it difficult to stay connected with our neighbors. Therefore, the Rainbow Group has monthly get-togethers on the fourth Thursday of each month in the Game Room at The Lodge, at 6 pm. Our next gathering will be on Thursday, April 23. Our monthly get-togethers are mostly informal social gatherings which give members an opportunity to meet new neighbors, catch up on member and community activities or news, and just chat — no stuffy agenda items, roll calls, or minutes for us! If you are hungry, feel free to bring your own food and adult beverages, or bring something from the Bistro. The Rainbow Group also hosts periodic gatherings for socializing (such as BBQs, potlucks and holiday parties), LGBT-themed movie nights in The Lodge Theater, and other events the group may sponsor. Maybe you'd even like to suggest your own activity, we are always open to new ideas. Please direct any questions to Dale at (951) 797-0364, dalebeckes@ gmail.com or on Facebook, search for Four Seasons Beaumont Pride. ~ Dale Beckes Rainbow Group Writers' Club

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