I'm not a disciplined writer. I don't spend a few hours everyday writing. Unfortunately for me, writing is all about being in the mood; waiting for inspiration if you like or in my case waiting for the flow.
When this happens I write in long hand in a notebook with the words racing out of me. It doesn't matter about spelling, grammar or punctuation; even my handwriting becomes illegible at times! Well, most of the time! No, it is all about getting the ideas, the words down on paper.
Once this has been completed I can then read it through. I usually do my editing when I type up my idea on the computer. It takes me more time to type than write free hand so I have time to review and reflect.
By starting this website and blog I'm hoping to encourage myself to write daily or at least more regularly. To this end I have joined a fortnightly writing group, which encourages me to write each week for discussion in the sessions. I have attended writing courses, both physically and online and added to my list of writing exercises to help me to develop my writing further. Wish me luck!
When planning this website, I thought that it would be a great opportunity to include ideas to help others to start writing. First of all, as a teacher, although now retired, I knew that getting children to write can be difficult. Putting pen to paper for some is a tremendous ask so I have added a page with ideas to help children get over the fear of the blank page and encourage them to start writing. This could be used by parents teachers and children alike. Nothing too taxing I promise. Just enjoyable snippets to encourage the imagination.
Sometimes adults need help too! Why not check out my ideas page for simple exercises to 'get the creative juices flowing!' I have also added some of my own work for you to read. Any comments (not too earth-shatteringly bad please) would be appreciated.
I have also included a story page, and a poetry page, which contains some of my work for both adults and children.
I hope that as you browse you will find something of interest and if you have any comments to make please feel free to do so. However, please be gentle as I am a fragile flower when it comes to harsh criticism. Anything positive or constructive would be welcome.
I would also be grateful if you could share my website with your friends- the more the merrier!