Thursday, July 28, 2011

A Day in the Life of Writing ....

One of my writing friends, whom I always consult when I'm deciding an issue on a WIP, lamented to me that every once in a while she finds herself in a writing rut.  She asked me if I ever had the same experience; and I assured her I, as well as many other writers, often do.  That's when our conversation turned to deliberate steps we needed to take to get out of our comfort zone when we find ourselves in the same writing circumstances day after day. 

So, today, I decided to write at the base of this waterfall very near my home.  This is where I usually do Tai Chi every morning, and after that I made a day of it - taking my picnic basket filled with a great sandwich, wine and cheese, and other goodies designed to get those creative thoughts out of my head, across my fingertips and down on paper. It worked - and so well that I may even go back tomorrow.

On another note, I'm re-reading a book written by a well-known author who has some sage advice for writers of any stage in their writing process.  The Maeve Binchy Writers' Club  published by Anchor Books and released in March, 2010 is filled with lots of good insights and encouragements for those who make their living by pen.  More information can be found here: readinggroupcenter.com or here: www.maevebinchy.com

Earlier this week, I was privileged to make another progress note on someone else who has a life in writing.  Jane Friedman - author, muse, consultant, writing coach and speaker, extraordinaire - has now dedicated her efforts completely to her website: janefriedman.com   I've had the good fortune of following Jane's advice since 2005 and have referred many others to her over the years.  For those of you who were fans of her former blog, "There Are No Rules, you'll be happy to learn that all of the subjects covered there will continue to be addressed at her new residence.  Be sure to check out the "Free Advice for Writers" page.  Jane has proved herself to be a trusted and reliable source of guidance for many writers finding their way in the world of letters.

Finally, a word about a website specifically designed to assist writers.  Penmusings.com was launched May, 2011 as a way of giving back to the writing community.  Many of you already know you can follow Penmusings on FacebookTwitter  - and soon, Google+ .  You'll find all the resources you need to write your book, movie, poetry and other prose - and get it published - on the Publishing Processes page. For those who summon  your muse through crossword puzzles, author quotes or other words of wisdom, you'll find writing resources on every page of Penmusings.com.   Enjoy!

I'll close for now so I can get back to that picnic basket for tomorrow; but, in the meantime . . .

. . . keep writing!