In ancient Greece, the Muses were nine goddesses believed to inspire art and literature. Today, writers and artists still believe in them. Maybe not specifically the Greek muses, but we all have a muse, don't we?

They all come in different forms. For some, maybe their muse is a song or singer. Others, maybe a celebrity. Or maybe your muse is someone you know in real life.

As for me, my muse looks a little something like this:

There's just something about Audrey Hepburn that inspires me. Her charm and grace are impeccable. She's just so classy and stylish and timeless. Which is something I hope my writing has.

My other muse is Dana. She pushes me to be better than I am and she believes that I can reach my dreams. Without her, I'm sure I would have given up years ago.

So there ya have it. What about you guys? What or who are your muses? Why?

Yesterday's post inspired this one. All that mythology soaking into my brain, at least one Greek god or goddess was bound to make an appearance.

D is for Demeter.

Demeter is the Greek goddess of harvest. One of the most beloved gods, the ancient Greeks would set a plate for her at their tables. She was responsible for the crops being plentiful, the earth producing enough to care for her people.

One of my favorite myths revolves around Demeter and her daughter, Persephone.

One day, Persephone was out, picking flowers and just enjoying the day, when Hades (God of the Underworld) was struck by an arrow shot by Eros (aka Cupid) and fell instantly in love with her. In spite of her protests, he dragged her down to the Underworld to be his bride.

Demeter adored her daughter and was devastated when she disappeared. She let the earth grow cold and all the crops die as she roamed the earth looking for her beloved daughter. After learning what happened, Demeter begged Zeus to make Hades release her, to which Zeus said that he would -- as long as Persephone hadn't consumed any food while in the Underworld. Well, she was down there for a while, and a girl is gonna get hungry, right? So she ate a few pomegranate seeds.

Afraid Demeter would condemn all the human race for her daughter's fate, Zeus reached a compromise. Persephone would remain in the Underworld for half the year, and spend the rest with her mother. Thus, the seasons were created.

How cool is that? I love that the ancient Greeks needed an explanation for the seasons so they created this myth. It's so fascinating.

What about you? Do you have any favorite myths? A favorite god or goddess?