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I'm writing today from Orlando, Florida. It's been a beautiful week of relaxing and going to places I have never visited. My husband's company has given us a fabulous trip with private dinners and private showings at Universal Studios. I walked through Hogsmeade ~ the Harry Potter village, rode the Dragon Challenge roller coaster, at night no less, and survived the forbidden journey through Hogwart Castle. I drank butter beer, a bit too sweet for me, but tasty, and I enjoyed buying rolling eye balls at the novelty shop. I purchased the perfect wand and my suitcase will be strained with my purchase of Fluffy, the three-headed stuffed dog and a few other treasures I couldn't live without.

My real triumph was riding in a Richard Petty race car! I do love the need for speed. Three laps around the track at over 140 mph left me grinning and knees a bit wobbly. The rest of the day was a blur of activity watching Shrek in moveable chairs, helping Spiderman capture the bad guys and finding Poisidon's lost treasure. I got soaked in Jurassic Park and felt deprived because the cable rides were for those with children. I desperately wanted to borrow a child so I could soar above the trees and view the park from above.

Last night at our gala dinner the entertainment was spectacular with an artist who happens to be reknown as the fastest artist in the world. Watching him splatter paint on a black canvas enthralled me. In a matter of minutes the image took shape, and Jeff Gordon, the famous race car driver came on stage and signed the painting of his likeness. Jeff was our guest speaker for the evening and spoke about chasing after dreams, not giving up and always, always to keep trying. He was relating his life's journey to that of my husband's business, but I realized Jeff's message was just as true for my profession ~ writing!

As Jeff Gordon said last night, "if you want to succeed, you have to put yourself out there."

I intend to do just that!

Til next time ~

DL Larson