New Territory

November 24, 2009 by Chris · Comments Off
Filed under: Lessons Learned

Thanksgiving isn’t even over yet, but I’m looking forward to Christmas. There’s nothing better than being with my family. This year, however, things are going to be a little different. Rather than being an adult holiday as it’s been for several years, there will be kids celebrating Christmas too.

Day-to-day, I really don’t have much contact with children. I admit to being ignorant about what kids like these days. I don’t know Barefoot Dreams from Appaman. Now, ask me about Blackberries or open source computer applications, and I can help you out. So, I had to do a bit of research.

As a writer, I’m going to embrace the holiday for another reason. It’s a perfect opportunity to observe. Writers have to always be on the lookout for new experiences. So, it’ll be fun to see the new interactions, to observe how everyone will talk and act with kids around. Better pick up that Jellycat for my niece. I have some extra Christmas shopping to do.

Tags: observation

Writing Tip–See To Write Better

August 31, 2009 by Chris · Comments Off
Filed under: Lessons Learned, Writing Tip

Today’s writing tip is about tapping into a vast resource for ideas, characters, and plots. Everything you need to know about writing is there. It’s all around you.

You know the places. They’re not necessarily destinations, but they certainly provide entertainment. They are those places known for their people-watching value. We have a few of them. One such place is a swanky restaurant on the water. During the boating season, it becomes the place to go. The crowds it attracts are as diverse as they’ll come. You’ll find anglers looking for a bite to eat, guys out for a guys day on the lake, families on an outing, and the ultra-rich with money to burn. Needless to say, there are lots of stories here.

Today’s tip offers this challenge. Find that place with the great people watching. Bring your laptop or a notebook and just observe. Look for the stories all around you. Gather some ideas for your next writing project.