Getting Squared Away

Ok... so here's a thing I have been thinking about. One thing about writing is that it really helps to have a place for it. It doesn't have to be fancy -- but it does help to have a little space cleared, supplies situated, stuff ready to go. A lot of us -- and of your parents -- may have been stocking up a little bit this week -- cleaning things and space and thoughts so that when we are ready to hunker down we will be as comfortable and feel as cozy as possible.

Next week I thought I would do a five part fictional building block set of days that will build on each other.
I write in many genres, so you can expect different things on here -- not just fiction... so if you are a poet or a memoirist -- fear not! Adapt and be patient... which seems to be the name of the game right now...

So today, I was thinking, let's just set up.

You need paper (unless you are working on a computer or other device).
Do you like white paper? Do you like lines?
You can write on shopping bags, on the back of used printer paper...
Do you have a notebook you can designate your writing notebook?
Pencils.
Pens.


Elementary:

You can make a notebook very easily by taken a small stack of computer paper, fold it in half and then use something to hold it together -- staples, an elastic, if you have a hole punch and ribbon that can be extra fancy. I suggest that today you draw on the outside. Write your name. Make it your special place for writing.

If you have any favorite books you could place this notebook on top of your favorite books. I think this makes everything feel like friends. Your writing and your books! Who are your favorite characters? Can you draw them on your notebook?


Middle:

After you get your supplies together -- make some sort of holder. Use a folder, a box -- decorate. Make this your special spot for writing.
Then, make a list.
List your favorite books, poems, children's books. This will remind you to connect with the art and that you can create stories that will bring other people into your world.
Next -- take a little while to list any story, character or poem ideas you already have. I like to keep this list in a little notebook titled "idea book." This helps me remember my ideas and gives me things to do not he days that I am stuck. Ideas are a little like toilet paper... sometimes you never think about it's absence... then one day the shelves are bare! It's good to have a few rolls on the shelf.


High school and beyond:

I know some of you will start thinking about school work again soon. I will keep posting for you though. For me, writing is a really important outlet during times of stress -- it can be a hobby, and even when there is work to be done it can be very sustaining...

Recently something I read suggested putting your three favorite books on your desk. I have many books surrounding me -- but it was really good to dig out my favorites. It reminds me of their enduring nature, their comfort and their inspiration.

Next, make a list. Do you have any ideas for things you have been wanting to write? Ideas that you have had but never got around to? Do you have a larger project you have been wanting to try? If you do -- you could think of the things you find here as warm up exercises -- a little bit of play before you get down to business. If not, the writing along will find you somewhere, I am sure of it.

Having idea books is crucial for me -- I use them all the time.

See you next week!
Please feel free to send me any thoughts or ideas -- and please please send me writing!