Finding Some Direction

As a new writer, I am trying to find the genre I enjoy writing most.  I think all new writers should try writing in a number of genres to see what best suits them.  Find your preferred audience.  Try writing an adult novel, young adult, middle grade and even a chapter or picture book.  You may be surprised as to what age you enjoy writing to.  Take a stab at writing a mystery, thriller, romance or fantasy story.  Find your niche, what excites you.  I also think it's a good idea to try writing a story in first person and one in third person to see which flows easier for you. 

As for me, I am currently working on two projects and have many ideas to experiment with.  My first piece is a YA novel.  A paranormal suspense story written in the third person.  My second project is a children's picture book series written in rhyme.  I have many ideas, some for middle grade novels, a memoir, a fiction novel based on a true story and so on.

I am still finding my unique voice and which genres I prefer to write.  Writing in the first person is my next challenge.  So far, I am enjoying writing.  It keeps me sane, is a great way to express myself, live out my life long fantasies and deal with past hurts.  Writing is what makes you a better writer...so I say keep on writing.  Don't be afraid to get out of your comfort zone and explore new writing styles and techniques.  Dig deep inside yourself and use that which is within you to create a compelling story.   

My Life in Piles

Lately, it feels like time is flying.  Days are shorter, hours are going by faster and yet there is still so much to get done.  As a homeschool mom of an active five year old boy I definately have my hands full.  Every day is an adventure, with new things to be discovered, made, played with and learned.  My days are packed with the typical house cleaning, laundry and never ending dishes as well as school work and when I find the time - writing.  I noticed the other day as I was talking to one of Zachariah's therapists that my life has become "creatively organized".  I have always known where to find important paperwork, bills, recipes etc.  When I was filling out some papers with his therapist she had asked me, "Do you have another pen?" and I said, "Sure, let me get one for you."  I stopped and scanned the room quick.  I thought, now which pile is it in again? Every time I was asked for an address or phone number, doctor's card or driver's license I stopped and looked at each "pile" to think which one the needed info. was in.  I realized that instead of filing my life, it has become "creatively organized".  Scanning the piles, I knew exactly what was in each one.  Each one unique and colorful, a different size, a different location but all an important part of my life.  I had let my piles get away from me!  Organization is a good thing, even if you do know what is in each of your piles.  Decluttering your workspace helps to declutter your mind as well.  I have decided I will be making time to declutter my "creatively organized" life so I can better focus on the most important things in my life; my family, friends and my writing.  Make a commitment to declutter your life today and focus on what's most important to you.