I was sorry when I turned the trail's corner and startled this family. Eleven ducklings scattered throughout the reeds on a steep bank. With quick motions, their mother tried to gather them together again. She searched through the reeds until all the ducklings were accounted for and heading out into the water.

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I'm reminded of this when I get busy and fail to gather up my writing ideas when I first think of them. I'm going "retro" now. I keep a real notebook and a pencil on my bedside table and in my purse. Using a smooth, old-fashioned yellow pencil on an expanse of white paper helps me connect with the words better and remember the ideas I want to use in my books.

 

So, I'll learn a lesson from this mom. I'll gather up my ideas and keep them safe.