Monday, June 5, 2017

Top of the morning... O'Connell is over the moon

Writing outside your comfort zone can feel intimidating, exhilarating, depressing.

When I worked, I had to find time to write. I woke early every morning, searched markets, and wrote from about 5:00 a.m.-8:00 a.m. before I went to school to teach little learners and budding writers.

 I did writing projects with them all the time using picture prompts, encouraging their good ideas. "Tell me more. Then what? where? why? when? how?" It is never too soon to develop a love of writing/reading. Kids love to see THEIR words in print.



I have been retired two years, and I've found myself dawdling instead of doing. By the time I piddle half the morning away watching news, reading blogs, and fooling around on Facebook, I decide it's time to write. Just about the time I sit down, my funny honey decides to go to the store, or out to lunch, and off we go... and there goes another day.

I am in the process of doing a final edit on my dust collector, my novel. My self-imposed deadline is this week. I will finish it TODAY!

Last month I challenged myself to submit to places I have never considered, and to write in genres that require more construction than writing memoir. Rejections  kept pouring in, but that is part of the game.

Did you ever try to write 100 words flash fiction? Every word has to count. I tried my hand at it. I submitted a condensed version of a 1,000 word story to Lagan on Line. Click the link to decide if this is a place where you would like to submit.

This morning when I read, "Thank you for your submission..." I shrugged and thought, "Eh, here's another rejection."

It was an international acceptance! This literary magazine is in Northern Ireland. I am beyond thrilled. And it will be featured on 6/24, a significant loved one's birthday. Happy dance.

Have you written anything lately? I presented Sean, the recent graduate, with his journal (photos included) which I have written for him since he was born.

Do you keep journals for grandchildren?
Do you jot an idea and write on topic later? Why wait? Write something today.



12 comments:

Dianna Graveman said...

Great post, Linda. I have let the turmoil of the past nine months (plus long work hours) keep me from writing. I started a journal but found it made me dwell too much on the daily mishaps. But I DO like the idea of starting a journal for my granddaughter Ada, who will be born in August! I think I'll get started on it today. Thanks for the inspiration!

Pat Wahler said...

Congrats on the acceptance and on finishing your novel, Linda! I, too, find that I'm not writing as much since retirement. Now it's far too easy for me to adopt the Scarlett O'Hara syndrome and think, "I'll do it tomorrow", instead of structuring my time as I did while working.

Pat
www.patwahler.com

Bookie said...

Congrats on acceptance. Every stamp of approval helps, doesn't it? Wish I could write right now, but mind is a jumble. Can't sort it out. Can't believe it is June! Have a good week.

Cathy C. Hall said...

Yes, there is something about having all the time in the world that keeps one from writing...:-)

So big congrats on joining the international market; you always inspire me with your can-do attitude. Even when you think you're not doing, you're doing more than me!

Susan Sundwall said...

Linda, I just finished a blog post urging my readers to write down their stories. Ha. We are kindred spirits! I don't journal for my grandchildren, but they each have a "file" and they often look at me in alarm when I mention it. LOL Just memorabilia from all their precious moments. I hope some day they'll know from that how much I love them. Great post and congrats on going International!Also loved your story in Sasee this month. Hugs.

Gerry Mandel said...

I'm glad I'm not the only one letting the day escape before churning out some words. Got to get back to it...thanks to your inspiring accomplishments. I want to buy a first edition/signed of your novel. Congrats on the Irish acceptance. They are obviously a literary race.

Julia Gordon-Bramer said...

Wonderful! It befits your surname!

Val said...

Congrats on your story!

I've been slacking. At least I still write two blog posts a day. I tell myself that's productive, but I know I can do more. Just lazy, enjoying that first year of retirement.

Karen Lange said...

Congratulations on the acceptance! I'm impressed with the 100 word flash fiction. That is a feat! :)

Connie said...

That's wonderful news about the literary magazine in Ireland! Congratulations on the acceptance and way to go for finishing your book too! You are an inspiration.

Susan said...

Great news about your writing going international, Linda! Fabulous. Congratulations. I have begun to put things in files for my grands and will transfer all to individual journals. It is a wonderful way to keep them informed of their growing up years. Susan

Sioux Roslawski said...

Congratulations on the international publishing notch. And a finished novel? Finished this week? I can't wait to hear about it.