Studying Writing Picture Books by Ann Whitford Paul

Today marks the begin of my study group for Ann Whitford Paul's "Writing Picture Books: A Hands-On Guide from Story Creation to Publication." I am super excited!

A FB buddy of mine suggested that we go through the book together. Of course I said yes! Then we opened it up to some of our Facebook writing groups, and within less then a week we had close to 50 people joining in!!!

I'm amazed, but I guess I shouldn't be, by how many wonderful, dedicated (did I mention friendly) writers there are out there, who are just aching to improve their craft. It makes me feel good. And, not only that, but now I have a group of people to work this book with!

So, I'll be posting over the next weeks. Sharing the process and what I learn. Hope you get something out of it too!

Stories swirling in my mind!

The one who says it cannot be done should never interrupt the one who is doing it.
-- The Roman Rule

I've been thinking about this quote. It feels appropriate for the Writing Life. 

Writing is hard. Let me say it again. WRITING IS HARD. 

It would be so easy to quit during times, like now, when I'm exhausted, not feeling well, brain fried, blocked, and simply lost. 

And, if putting pen to page wasn't something that I needed to do, well, I guess I probably would have quit a long time ago. But how could I, how can I do that when the words swirl inside my head, talking to me at night in my dreams, and creep into my mind caressing my thoughts when I'm awake. 

Writing is something I need to do, and it makes me feel good. I love those moments when I get lost in a story, both writing and reading them. It just feels good to be connected to something bigger. I'm in love with words, stories, characters, plots. Oh my, that's what I like. 

Times like this, I just need to open myself up to the world around me. Let the inspiration sink in, and refuel. Go out, and live life. I'll keep filling my cup and the rest will come.

Let's begin

I love reading blogs about writing journeys. But, for some reason, I've always been hesitant to put my own journey out there. Funny, that for a person who gets by on my stories, writing about myself could be so daunting. Maybe they won't like what I have to say. Maybe no one will understand me. . . Maybe, it's not about that. When people put their journeys out there, others can be a part of it. We are a community. I'm a part of it. One way or another. So, here I am. I'll share what I've learned. If it helps someone, if someone can relate, cool beans. :-)