Every week Rory posts 9 questions to pause and get the juices flowing.

What do you find yourself splurging on the most?

My ideas on splurging have changed significantly over the years. At one time, it was clothes and shoes, followed by special things for my children and vacations; now, it’s organic fruits, vegetables, and meat. Which are equally as expensive these days.

What is your top writing tip?

As Nike says, Just Do It.

Are you a regular recycler, and if so, what are five of your top recycling tips?

Yes, reuse what you can for as long as possible. Be creative. Rinse the glass. Break down the boxes. Be mindful of the long-term effects.

Are you someone that wants to be or needs to be heard and seen, or are you content to be found behind the scenes?

It depends on the circumstances. I want to be heard and seen if it’s something important to myself and the common good. Otherwise, I’m very content behind the scenes.

How approachable do you think you are in real life and away from the keyboard, and do others feel the same way about you?

Apparently, I am very approachable. How do I know this to be true? I am constantly approached by strangers asking questions or just starting a conversation.

Do you sit more on the fence or the edge of the knife?

Over the years, I’ve spent a good amount of time on the fence, and I find that it causes anxiety. I’ve been learning to trust my instincts more as I’ve gotten older to become more comfortable jumping in when necessary.

What do you remember the most about your grandparents?

I did not have grandparents, but I’m glad I had the opportunity to witness my children be loved unconditionally by theirs.

How important to you is validation from your readers to your written content – do you need acknowledgment from others to create?

It was important in the past. However, after reading that my favorite authors of all time struggled with validation, I let down my guard. It just doesn’t matter; do it for yourself, and the rest will follow.

What is it you would have liked to have been asked about your life but have yet to be?  

I feel I’ve told a good amount of my story before it was ever asked of me. One thing no one really inquires about is how did it all make me feel along the way.