Two weeks ago I finished my substantive edit on
Barefoot Summer, the first book in my new Chapel Springs series. Every writer has their own traditions and habits, but one of mine is that I take a week or two off between books to refill the creative well.
If you were looking in my living room window during this time, it would look more like the making of a couch potato. But trust me, it's part of my process. I rebound from the long and arduous journey of writing a novel by reading novels and watching movies.
It's especially important to immerse myself in the romance genre, remembering what it's like to fall in love again. This week or two is filled with lots of happy sighing and contented smiles.
Also during this time, the plot of my next book is simmering in the back of my mind. I find myself pausing the movies and putting down the novels to make notes on my next story. The idea being that, by the time my break is over, my plot is fleshed out enough to begin writing.
Eventually I reach a point when I know my creative well has been refilled. Story ideas are abundant, and I feel excited about new ideas that are now flowing easily.
Kevin and I were at the theater Friday seeing Spiderman. Story ideas were popping into my head all throughout the previews.
I leaned over and said, "The creative itch is back."
Time to get writing.
Next up:
Dancing with Fireflies, book 2 of the Chapel Springs series. I can't wait to see where Jade and Daniel's journey leads them.
What do you do to recharge your batteries?
9 Comments:
I never could get my batteries, to hold a charge, so I went back to the hand crank! ;)
going fishing , helps alot!
I'm learning to write and it much harder than I thought! Non-writers don't give writing enough credit for being tough. Even coming up with ideas and fleshing out plots is challenging, at least for me! I thought I'd have a brilliant idea fully pop into my head & then of write it....nope. Lately I've wanted to write a story about great friedship, like the sisterhood of the traveling pants. That's about as far as I've gotten. Ugh.
Hand crank works too, Jel. LOL
Tonya, don't give up. It is hard, but as you go, you'll start to figure out what works for you and what doesn't. I loved the Sisterhood books. Try reading up on "ensemble casts". Hang in there!
Denise, I loved hearing about your creative process! I'm glad to know I'm not the only one who loves watching romantic movies (for me it's rom coms) to get inspired. I Gilmore Girl-ed myself through my last book! :)
Loved your blog...will keep stalking it....
I always love to keep up with you and read your blogs.
I am the same as you - to unwind, give me a good movie, or a good Christian Fiction book ! ! ! or my adorable grandkids of course :-)
I usually take a break in between projects to recharge, too. Yes, watching movies and catching up on all the shows I had to dvr...oh, and I try to spend more time outside. :)
I usually take a break in between projects to recharge, too. Yes, watching movies and catching up on all the shows I had to dvr...oh, and I try to spend more time outside. :)
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Itching under cast
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