All notes by year

"Originality is hard to define in words, but it is possible to describe and reproduce the emotional state it evokes. I try to attain that emotional state each time I sit down to write my novels. That's because it feels so wonderfully invigorating. It's as if a new and dif ferent day is being born from the day that is today. If possible, I would like my readers to savor that same emotion when they read my books. I want to open a window in their souls and let the fresh air in. This is what I think of, and hope for, as I write--purely and simply." - Haruki Murakami

"Originality is hard to define in words, but it is possible to describe and reproduce the emotional state it evokes. I try to attain that emotional state each time I sit down to write my novels. That's because it feels so wonderfully invigorating. It's as if a new and dif ferent day is being born from the day that is today. If possible, I would like my readers to savor that same emotion when they read my books. I want to open a window in their souls and let the fresh air in. This is what I think of, and hope for, as I write--purely and simply." - Haruki Murakami

Is it acceptable to encourage competition between your kids? To get one to want to be better than the other at a skill or pursuit? To let them know that "You need to push a little harder to stay ahead your brother - he's gaining on you." Or "Are you just going to let her be better than you?"