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There’s an old adage that says we make time for things we want to make time for.

I’m always amazed at what my daughters can accomplish when they decide it’s important enough, i.e. slide-shows of their Christmas gifts, clean rooms (when an immediate incentive is involved) and any number of tasks.

I’m also amazed at what I can accomplish when I decide it’s important enough. Since the completion of my novel, The Second First Lady, many mothers, friends and family members have asked me when I found the time.

I don’t really have a clear-cut answer – other than the fact I just kept at it, writing whenever I could. It wasn’t easy, since I work full-time, have two kids and cook, clean and shop every week. I also help with homework, grade my students’ papers and spend time with the family. Still, somehow, I got it done with God’s help.

I can think of other examples in my life, too. I earned my Master’s Degree while working and managing the household, and I gained National Board Certification in the same manner. In the midst of it all, I did wonder… Why am I doing this? But I kept on. There were doubts, discouragements and fears along the way, but I kept at it. Completing the novel was no different.

As I reflect, I got it done through consistency. Some days I wrote for two hours or less; other days I wrote longer. But I did it, because writing creatively is one of my passions and I was determined.

So the message for all you Moms (and everyone else): You really can do it, if you want.

--Vanessa W. Snyder