A Keeper

I’m currently in the process of writing my fourteenth novel. I adore the early stages of crafting a story. I’ve also learned to pay close attention to an idea when the faucet transitions from a drip to a steady flow. In the past few months I’ve brainstormed several unique concepts for future novels. Most don’t stick. But there are those that do. These are the ones worth exploring for me.

One question I’ve pondered over years and years of writing is how I know when a story is a keeper.

How do I know when an idea is a keeper?

When the story begins to tell itself.

I wake up with character revelations. I go to bed with dialogue running through my thoughts. During conversations with friends I draw mental connections with what’s going on with my characters. I can’t shake the plot. It infiltrates my life—until somehow it’s become this undeniable thing I must address.

I trust I’m to pursue an idea when the characters begin telling me their story.

So, have a seat. Tell me, how do you know when you’ve begun something worth your time and investment?

Know What Keeps You Sane

Between the nightly school events to attend, work demands my husband has been dealing with, writing transitions, as well as a flurry of other stressors competing for my attention, I’ve learned the necessity of relying on my go-to list. For the sake of my sanity. What’s a go-to list? It’s a compilation of tried-and-true, time-tested methods that are sure to either put me in a state of peace or light a needed fire under me.

Here are some of the methods on my list…

Go for a run.

Grab a paintbrush and paint something—anything.

Carve out a day—an entire day—to write. Something. Anything.

Read a book with an addictive plot or hook-me writing.

Dance or be goofy with my kids.

Pet the dog for at least five minutes.

Spend time reflecting in a state of gratitude.

Get outside.

Soak in the tub. Lock the door. ;-)

Watch a movie like Bridesmaids, Pitch Perfect, or Couples Retreat (so wrong, but oh so right). Boom.

Reach out when I’ve been alone with my thoughts too long.

Encourage others when I begin to feel defeated.

Be emphatic about not giving up.

It’s not a comprehensive list. These are just a few of my lifesavers. But they work. They’re my reboot, do-overs and mind simmers. Do you have a list of things that help you to stay sane?

Significant Price Drop ~ THE FLOWER GIRLS

Over the past two years I’ve had a blast visiting local book clubs to answer questions about THE FLOWER GIRLS. I loved the book signings I held at two fantastic coffee roasters and the library talk I gave. Readers have amazed me by capturing dozens of shots of my book with their favorite blossoming flowers.

I’m thrilled with the reception THE FLOWER GIRLS has received. For this reason, and many others, I’m significantly dropping the price for a limited time.

THE FLOWER GIRLS is only 99 cents right now.

Buy your Kindle copy today! Tell your family & friends.

*meet you back here May 16th