I woke up with this phrase in my head: “Writing is a feast, not a diet.” It had nothing to do with my dreams, so I wasn’t sure where the idea came from. I recognized at once its similarity to a quote from a movie I love: Auntie Mame (1958).

Life’s a banquet and most poor suckers are starving to death! — Rosalind Russell, as Auntie Mame

I’ve always adored Auntie Mame’s exuberance, her love of abundance, her willingness to immerse herself in whatever interest catches her fancy with no concern for what others might think of her

I’m not as brave or adventurous as she is, but I’ve realized the power of her philosophy. My subconscious was just reminding me of something I’ve been aware of for years.

I have a tendency to restrict myself when it comes to making things. I know that writing, sewing, drawing, making keeps me whole, balanced, and happy. And yet, I often limit myself, exactly as if I were on a diet and creativity could make me fat.

Can we have too much sanity? Too much happiness? Too much creativity?

I don’t think so, but I act as if it were so.

Today’s goal is to be creative when I can, and to let myself play a little.

Today, I will spend a few minutes pretending I’m Auntie Mame.