Poetic Paws

Seeing as how yesterday was my birthday and I didn't post, today we're doing double duty. So, what does it mean to read like a writer? Have you had moments when reading that something on the page stands out to you as awkward and you find yourself annoyed and pulled out of the story? Have you been reading and all of a sudden a line stands out to you as awesome and you really wish you'd come up with it? Reading is often seen as a way to relax or gather information. But what if

This holiday season dialogue will be the most influential element in our stress. Buying presents, getting and cooking the food, wearing the perfect outfit are all just a part of leading the dialogue toward good thoughts and pleasant family get togethers. Dialogue is one of the most powerful tools a writer has. It brings characters to life, reveals their personalities, and moves the story forward. Yet, writing dialogue that feels natural and engaging can be challenging. Many

On this Thanksgiving I've stopped and helped feed those less fortunate than me. I'm always helping someone somewhere do something I hadn't planned. From washing someone's clothes, to moving furniture with my wagon, to sharing a plate with a neighbor when I cook, I'm always busy these days. So, today I'm spending the day at a non-profit serving Thanksgiving meals to those who are living on the street or, like me, have no family to share the day with. This brings us to the idea

Write the scene The scene: A little girl is asleep reading a book, leaning up against an aged tree. Her frisky kitty chases butterflies next to her. How did she get there? What wisdom does that old tree have to share? Is this a fairytale, a nightmare, serene, or is something funny about to happen? What's the kitty's name? What is the little girl dreaming about? Stories shape how we understand the world. Yet, in an age flooded with content, many narratives feel predictable or