Books & Writing
-
Still, I Write
I’ve been to a lot of writing conferences and workshops over the past twelve years. One of my favorite experiences was three years ago with Emma D Dryden on Martha’s Vineyard. We were a small group of writers who wrote, learned, and cooked together. That’s where I met Beverly. I’m grateful she agreed to write a post for VOICES. I look forward to reading her novel. Introducing Beverly James!
-
The Power Of Persistence
Everyone needs a cheerleader. My husband, Eric, listened to me for three days. “I don’t know what to write for my blog. I can’t believe I don’t have any ideas.” He offers suggestions which I contemplate, “Meh.” He listens to me plan our evening which revolves around getting this blog post done. I disappear for two hours and return with, “I tried, but I’ve got nothing.” He tells me it’s okay, I’m a great writer, and I’ll think of something. I tell him maybe I’ll have an idea next week. He nods. The next morning I ask if he minds if I disappear for a bit to work on a post.…
-
To Heal Or Not To Heal
A little voice carried across the table. “Why did you end MYSTIC that way?” Students gathered around waiting for me to sign their books. I heard her question and desperately wanted to answer. However, I had made a promise not to give away the ending to some of her fellow students who were halfway through MYSTIC.
-
Playing With Memories
I Remember Make a wish! We baked a cake for Nikki’s birthday. Wet kisses on my cheek. You taught me the joy of loving a pet. I stood on my tiptoes watching you slide the golden brown raisin bread from the coffee can. Scents of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. Cooking with you made me feel special. ANN CAN FLY. Sitting on the edge of the twin bed. Feet dangling. “Will you read it again?” Now I understand you were planting seeds showing me what girls could do. You asked me what was wrong. I didn’t want you to leave. You gave me a hug. There on the top shelf…
-
Walk Confidently In The Direction Of Your Fear
There are two things I must do. One is write, and the other is run. The problem is there are days when I don’t feel like doing either. On days when I accomplish both, I feel complete. I feel like me. Yet, for as many miles as I’ve run each time I begin, I must fight the demons that tell me to stop. Every step I take fuels me to keep going until I reach a stride where my mind focuses, and running is enjoyable. The first two miles are always the toughest. It’s the same for writing. Getting started can be a battle. I’m working on my third novel,…
-
How A Backpack Sent Me Running
It takes a lot to make me laugh. I mean a real laugh out loud, belly laugh. Well, it happened several weeks ago while I was watching a YouTube video. Then as soon as I started laughing I was overcome with guilt. Was it terrible that I found the video so funny?