This summer was long, trying, and incredibly rewarding. I sang songs, saved lives (well, one life), cleaned poop, and (I hope) changed lives. My post as Waterfront Director at the Akron Rotary Camp for Children and Adults with special needs was an incredible experience that is certainly no walk in the park, but allowed me the opportunity to see things I would never see in my lifetime otherwise.
What does this have to do with writing? Well, for starter, everything. As writers, our life experiences shape and form every part of our attitude and being—which directly translates in every word we type. Facing challenges that require creative solutions will help us to practice approaching different subject manner in new and innovative ways. And if nothing else, I’ve become a person with a fuller understanding of the wide spectrum of special needs, an audience that often goes overlooked in the world of writing.
What am I getting at, you ask? Nothing, really. I would certainly encourage you to do any sort of volunteer work (as I always do), and working with this particular population is a fantastic way to broaden your appreciation of the capabilities and achievements of human (not disabled, human) potential.
I also just wanted to let anyone interested know that I am back in action. My writing went on hold for the last three months, and I have returned in full swing. Glory be. I’m happy to be back 
I’ll close by posting a fabulous picture of myself and another staff member, being awesome. That is all.
