vim & vinegar

"She is full of vim and vinegar."

These were the words my elderly neighbor, Mary Miller, used to describe me as a two-year-old. 

The antiquated phrase -which means feisty or headstrong - seemed to fit. I refused to wear the outfits that my mom laid out for me, opting for my pink sparkly kitten shirt with rhinestone eyes every time (and then changing my outfit three times in the same day).

It was not until a few years ago that I discovered the book on my parent's shelf, "Raising Your Spirited Child: A Guide for Parents Whose Child Is More Intense, Sensitive, Perceptive, Persistent and Energetic," was purchased with me (not my brother) in mind.

I am now 24, and thankfully no longer wearing cat shirts. But those closest to me know that my core personality traits have not changed: I can still be fiery (also known as difficult) and persistent. These attributes have their obvious downsides. On the other hand, I am rarely accused of apathy.

I hope, I pray, that my writing never becomes apathetic. I can think of no greater sin as a writer, than to write without conviction, without the spark of creativity. Instead, I want my writing to be "spirited" -- intense, sensitive, perceptive, persistent, energetic. 

I know it is a tall order to fill, so please hold me accountable. Because the best stories, in my opinion, are those flavored with vim and vinegar.