It is interesting . . . the things we collect . . . how they become the inspiration and details behind the tales we write. On my desk sits a small shell collection gathered from a remote beach in Mersing, Malaysia.
I became an avid collector of shells while living in Kluang, Malaysia with my husband for nine incredible months. Some years later I am still impacted by that life-changing experience, and my home has a definite Asian feel to this day (elephants everywhere . . . and more).
The Mersing shells hold top billing on my desk at present. Small and unremarkable to the eye at first glance, they are the basis of a novel I am writing. They sit atop a small box holding a collection of sailing knots and instruction for the novice sailor (also in my novel). The box is titled, "Learn the Ropes," and indeed, since I am still learning the ropes as a writer, it seems perfect.
However, I do know how to sail. For a time I borrowed every sailing saga I could get my hands on. I loved the adventure of sailing and the thrill of learning something new. I finally talked my husband into buying a small Montgomery 15-foot sailboat, which led to a week long camping trip in the San Juan Islands (WA). The sails I take . . . or the adventures I make . . . continue to have their allure.
Copyright 2011 © Sharon Himsl
Sharon M. Himsl
Writer/Author. Blogging since 2011.
Published with Evernight Teen:
~~The Shells of Mersing
A ship in port is safe, but this is not what ships are for. Sail out to sea and do new things. ~Grace Hopper~
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About Me
- Sharon Himsl
- You could call me an eternal optimist, but I'm really just a dreamer. l believe in dream fulfillment, because 'sometimes' dreams come true. This is a blog about my journey as a writer and things that inspire and motivate me.
Would love to hear about one of your sailing adventures some time :)
ReplyDeletewhat a great post Sharon, I get so wrapped up in politics ever since Diane bought me a Bill Reilly book a couple years ago. that i lose track of the important things sometimes. Thanks for sharing Tom
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