Let Go, Let It Flow

Yes, I’m still working on that novel I started this last November for NaNoWriMo. I finally got through the worst of the battle scene and am now wrapping up that chapter. That was a tough section to write. Actually, I don’t know that ‘write’ is a very good definition of what I accomplished there.

Maybe a better word would be ‘dumped’.

This section has no energy, no real intensity, and very little to redeem itself. I had absolutely no epiphanies or enlightened moments. It was simply an arduous daily task to pound out. All I can hope for is that when it comes time to revise, I will finally get some sort of inspiration to make this section become fulfilled.

The nice thing I discovered through writing this particular piece is that I don’t have to make it perfect the first time. In fact, it is better that I don’t. So, I'm okay the battle is less than perfect.

My writing skills in all of the areas that I write took a huge leap forward when I discovered the enormous merits of just putting everything down and revise it to the piece it should finally be. It allows so much more to work with and makes the piece more rounded and effective.

By putting down all of my thoughts and ideas as I go, I open myself and the story up to all it can possibly be. In other words, I’m not limiting the story, but allowing the story to drive the writing. In allowing the story to be the master, I’m not controlling the ebb and flow or the final outcome. I actually am surprised by what shows up on the page.

This is what makes writing so addictive.

The other novel I was working on before November, I was definitely the one in control. It’s plain to see. In that piece, I was trying to write it perfect the first time.

This is so stupid.

It’s also being very narrow-minded.

The reason I say this, is all you have to do is look at the word count. In not allowing the story to have its say, the story is short, stilted, and doesn’t explore all the areas that make a story so compelling. Now, I’m not saying the one I’m working on now is compelling, but it has a whole lot more potential than the first one. When I’m done with this first draft, it will be set aside and let to rest for a while.

During that time, I will go back to the first story and try to write a second draft that is more like a first draft. I really hope I can make that happen, as I really believe the story has a lot of merit and needs to be told. I just have to let it do the telling, not me.

What Nurtures Your Soul?

There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as if everything is. - Albert Einstein, physicist

I have written before about the incredible beauty of where my husband and I live. The surrounding mountains are like majestic arms, offering protection within their tree-covered embrace. The varied green textures of the trees, shrubs, ferns and other plants bring peace and healing to the deepest parts of my soul. I especially love the contrast between the deep green of the trees against the amazing blue of the sky when I look at the ridge line.

Living in the Pacific Northwest gives residents the opportunity to take advantage of varied vistas of tremendous beauty, all within a relatively short distance. Ocean or desert, mountain or valley, each is possible in easy day trips. We count ourselves fortunate, grateful, and blessed to live in the natural splendor that surrounds us.

What is it that makes you feel nurtured and refreshed? Life is short and we never know how long we have. Make time for the things that help you feel alive and energized.

Lettuce Grow Some

Depending on where you live and what the current weather cycle is running, you may be able to start growing lettuce, now. This year, here in Oregon with El Nino causing warmer weather, we can actually begin growing some cold crops such as lettuce. This is exciting news, as there is nothing better than the flavor of fresh produce.

Even if you live in an area that is not quite warm enough, yet, especially if the fear of freezing is still possible, using a small greenhouse or clear plastic covering may still enable you to plant some early lettuce varieties. Remember, when starting seeds, keep them moist. By keeping the seeds and seedlings protected by a sheet of clear plastic over the growing container, but not touching them, gives them the oxygen necessary while retaining moisture for healthy germination.

Many leaf lettuce varieties are fairly hardy in cooler temperatures and if you are able to plant in a large container and keep it close to the house to offer protection, you may be quite successful. Oak barrels make an effective growing container and are tall enough to make picking easy while helping to keep pests out.

The nice thing about leaf lettuce is that you can pick what you need for sandwiches and salads. As the lettuce grows out, it is easy to just seed in some more. Try growing different lettuce varieties to add flavor and color. Plant some peas and radishes for more salad ingredients and texture and enjoy healthy eating.