September at Writual
Confession: Even though I tell everyone who ever steps foot in any of my writing classes to make time in their day to write, I don’t always do it myself. And now I’m going to backpedal a bit…I actually do write every day—I work on my books, my essays, my proposals, my workshops. But what I don’t do is write in a journal anymore and I used to do that incessantly.
Then, a few months ago, I put out a challenge to one of my writing groups as we headed into a two-week break between sessions: Write every day for five minutes. That’s it…everyone has five minutes in their day. Even me.
A friend had recently given me a tiny notebook and I decided that it would be perfect for this challenge. My go-to journals in the past were either steno pads or blank books the size of a paperback, but this one felt less daunting. I christened the little book “my new journal” and made sure I popped it in my purse when I went out or had it next to me on my desk when I was in. And it worked! I wrote for two weeks and kept it going when I went to Maine.
I think the size of the journals helped…it wasn’t daunting. I changed up the challenge when I went to Maine; instead of 5 minutes, I changed it to “write yourself a love note each morning” which worked out perfectly as I sat and had coffee each day in a chair next to Annie’s tree. Tiny, gentle goals…that’s what’s working for me these days. Try it—and let me know how it goes.
Writing Groups & Classes
The Saturday AM Writing group continues to meet regularly from 10-11:30am 3 Saturdays a month. If you’re interested in the Sat. AM group, click this button:
I continue to hold the Writing Through Grief workshop in Southbury, CT. It’s open to new members, too, if you’re in the area and would like to join us. We resume on September 10th at the Vicinanza Studios & Gallery
Other Writing Opportunities & Events & Writers
If you’re in Connecticut, make plans to attend this event at the Curious Cat Bookshop in Winsted. If you’re not in Connecticut, you can still order the book! Register for the event or buy the book by clicking on the picture!
Memoir Workshop
If you’re thinking about writing a memoir, please look into this workshop presented by Brooke Warner and Linda Joy Myers, two of the hardest working women in memoir today. But they’re not the only teachers for this workshop—Maggie Smith, Melissa Febos and Regina Brooks are among others who will guide your story and your words into the memoir you dream of.
I’m at the Woodbury Library again, but this time it’s for a
Book Launch!
September 17th is the actual pub date for my next book, True Confessions of an Ambivalent Caregiver. I can’t believe the day is almost here and I’m both excited and nervous about it. The Woodbury Library has graciously offered to host a launch event and I think it will be an amazing night—if you’ve even been to one of their events, they know how to throw a party! I hope to see you there!
You can register in advance at this link or call the library for more information. You can also preorder books from your favorite independent bookstore or call The Hickory Stick (one of my favorites!)
Still have questions, suggestions or comments?
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And finally, thanks—all of you—for your support & love. I appreciate all of it and couldn’t do it without you.
xo
Cindy
Yes to tiny gentle goals. They work wonders. Baby steps as they say. And congrats again! Super excited for you!