Contests

I've been on a "contest kick" lately. Yes, it's true. I've been entering dozens of contests - perhaps up to 100. My favorite kind of contests are - surprise - any that involve writing. I especially am drawn to short paragraph/essay contests on a prescribed topic ("In 250 words or less, describe your dream vacation...", something like that). I also compete in other writing contests - historical essays, poetry, grant proposals, nominations. And, I confess, I enter sweepstakes as well. The lure is the possibility of winning an all-expenses-paid vacation, a makeover, a shopping spree, a new bike, a donation to the charity of my choice, or any other number of things. I am attracted to the hope that perhaps my essay might win over the hearts of the judges or that my name might be pulled out of the proverbial hat.

Wish me luck on this wild and crazy venture. You can check back with me in about six months to see if my efforts were futile or if my hopeful attempts resulted in anything fun or fabulous.

If you happen to run across any contests in the newspaper or your favorite magazine or the local department store, please send me a link or a cut-out. It's a silly hobby, I know - but my imagination about the prospect of what could be keeps me energized.