My writing process is simple: I just write and keep writing until my brain stops working. That’s how I work. Then, I look back at what I managed to write and try to unwind it. Half the time I don’t even realize where a story is going before I finish. I don’t usually have some end game that came to me. I don’t reverse engineer my work, starting with the ending and working my way back to the beginning. Instead, I rely on my characters to tell me where they should be going. It’s probably not the best approach. Arguably, I’d probably be a more successful writer if that weren’t my approach, because if it did work I’d probably have sold more works. (Though, considering my inability to promote myself and such, making over $100 in total on my works isn’t actually that bad.)

We returned from our vacation on Sunday. I did read Seth Rogen’s “Yearbook”. It was fantastic. If you want to laugh and forget about your troubles for a bit, it’s definitely a great read. At the local bookstore in the Berkshires, I did manage to find a single copy of “Crying in H Mart” by Michelle Zauner. While I didn’t have the time to read the book in a day like I did “Yearbook” (I’m a very fast reader), I also definitely recommend “Crying in H Mart”. Being able to relax, take 2 very relaxing bubble baths, and just read was essential in getting the recharge that I needed to get back into things. Sure enough, a little before passing out at night, I sat down with my “Anything is Pawsable” notebook my husband bought me for inspiration and started to sketch out a character. Then, all of a sudden, words came to me. And I started to flood a few pages with excitement. I’m not good at much, but cooking and words are absolutely my strengths.

What is the story about? No clue. I have a main character named Elise. I have words that start a story, which I’m hoping will be part of a serial. But, I won’t know until I get in there. I can picture her. I know the basics of her situation. From there? I guess I’ll see where the story takes me.

What I like about this approach to writing is that it takes me on the same journey as the reader. I connect with the characters. I feel bad for their situation. I laugh at their jokes. I put so much of myself into these works that it’s like watching a child grow. You can only do so much to help, but eventually they are going to take the reigns and you are just along for the ride.

The only thing I know is that this is the first time that I was really able to write something outside of blogs or ghostwriting work. This was something that I think I’m going to love. This is a journey that I hope I can continue on. I guess we’ll see what happens.