“Writing is important because it helps me hear
what my mind is saying.”
Evalee Age 4
My 4 year old granddaughter said this as she ‘wrote’ lines and lines in her notebook.
She and I agreed that it would be nice also to share this drawing.
I say, Go do what a four year old does.
Ps.
If you are anywhere between 2 and 6, you already know you are a creative person.
If you are a 1: Bet you are busy creating your life, but perhaps showing up to ‘creativity’ (process or product) isn’t calling to you. And that’s cool. But then, I suspect not too many 1′s have landed on this page, anyway. And if they have, they probably are wondering how they got ‘dragged’ here.
But for the rest of you, want to scooch a little closer to the 6?
1. Awareness alone is a good start! So.. look, you’ve already taken a step!
2. Sometimes we need to give ourselves permission to show up to our creativity. To do that, you might want to find ways to truly appreciate how important the creative process is in your life:
a. External ways to find value: Do a little research, watch the Happy Movie, read or watch or listen to works by Sir Ken Robinson or Jill Badonsky.
b.Internal ways to find value: Thnk about the times you are creative.. creative thinking, creative doing, aha creative moments in conversations, etc. and ask yourself “How is that important for me?”
Yes, that creative process..it’s not just a fun little past time, my friends. It may well be your “soul feeding, finding answers, calm your stress, life is good, meditative, and oh, life is fun, too” process. How ’bout that.
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I’m talking about the bottoms of my pottery pots… sometimes messy. The more intricate the design in the pot, the messier the bottoms. That’s against the general rules that the critics would believe makes a good pot: MUST. BE. PERFECTLY. Smooth. Bottoms.
Ya, whatever. In cross-stitch it’s ‘important’ to have the back side look as clean, almost, as the front side. But what if the front side had some wild and amazing intricate design, but the only technique to do that was to have a lot of knots on the backside? Do you not bother to create the new and wondrous and wild design to save ‘face’ for the back side? I hope that wouldn’t be true. Something stunning wouldn’t happen. (I know squat about cross stitch.. just creating a scenario here.)
What if a pottery piece was wildly designed with extensive detailed carving, and handbuilt additions? DO YOU KNOW HOW INSANE IT IS to keep a bottom perfectly clean as a billion tiny pieces of clay, while carving, fly like Edward Scissorhand trimming a hedge? Or what about flipping over that odd shape pot for a final cleaning on the wheel, when the rim it sits on is not symmetrical, and the added pieces would be damaged in the process? Sure I’ll trim the bottoms beautifully before carving begins. But keeping them ideal just doesn’t work. A wipe, afterward,yes.. but “proper” cleaning, no.
So, I have messy bottoms and dang it, I’m proud of them. The rules of proper bottoms have had to be broken for the rest of the piece to evolve.
Have you broken any rules lately? Ever noticed how ‘must do’s’ in art actually stop you? Or is the rebel in you inspired when you see a possibility of breaking the rules? And what about ‘rules’ in the rest of your life? I personally have given up on “House must be clean for guests” and trust me, this took many years evolving. Now I figure it’s my job to model imperfection. ~smile~
What rules would you like to break? Noticing them is a trick in itself when we live by them but we don’t ’notice’ them consciously. Once noticed, once we ask ‘do I have to adhere to that rule?” we can usually find some way to justify our breaking the rules that serves that part of us that does appreciate rules. Like I just justified my messy bottoms and sometimes messy home. Works for me. What works for you?
As the 2nd Annual Muse A-Fair approaches, I thought I’d re-share this post about why the first event was so successful!
The Story of the Muse A-Fair really has become the epitome of why we, who are advocates of those wanting to live inspired lives, do what we do.
What was it that made the Muse A-Fair such a success? Oh there’s the obvious – people who walked into the show have never seen anything like it. Really, when else has artwork of vaginas and altered cabbage patch dolls been combined with the teachings of a shamanic healer, a promoter of the written word, and a most eclectic and unusual collection of visual artwork, jewellery, photography, owl pellet dissecting kits, duct tape wallets, soaps , witches wands and baked goods?
The quality of the works was top notch… I was in awe at what had been produced and at the glorious effort that went into displays.
People who came to see the event, despite the bomb threat that shut down the downtown core (we were on the edge of that shutdown) stayed and stayed and stayed. Yes, there was so much to see and absorb. One person left and came back, commenting she was overwhelmed with the inspiration in the space and had to take a break.
But here is the true success of the show:
When you go into a traditional art or craft show, how often do you find yourself wanting to get out of there quickly? Traditionally, many of the vendors, although pursuing their creative endeavour, are suffering from the characteristics of the un-mused: they are doubting themselves, comparing themselves with others, judging others, still thinking that they can only justify their creations if they sell, are competitive with other vendors, (and can even be caught verbally disparaging them), are finding all kinds of outside people and things to blame if things aren’t going as well as they should be, and they show up to the event in high defence mode in preparation for any rude comments that might never actually happen….. and thus, there is an energy hovering over the show that is not all that light.
The muse a-fair, however, included people who have had coaching and/ or muse group training. The energy of compassion and gentleness for themselves was obvious. Their collective caring for each other literally shone. If they found themselves comparing, or fearful, or doubting.. that was okay… they knew how to manage that. They have Bodyguards and Spills and all the muses to call on. But more than that, they’ve bonded with their own creative soul. So much
that may have caused doubts in the past no longer even exists.
They understand each other. We could all laugh with each other at the sleepless nights prior to the event for those of us who create on a deadline. It wasn’t wrong to stay up all night. It just happens to be a characteristic of some creative people.
We didn’t necessarily have high dollar sales, (although without the bomb scare I think we would have) but not one of the Muses would say this wasn’t the most awesome show ever. They got to be in their process and they knew how brave they were to step out and share their brilliance. They knew they had the full support of every other creative being there.
The depth of their stories were not blatantly shared, although I hope over time they feel comfortable sharing all. There are stories of overcoming huge challenges, of moving forward despite pain, of crazy success… Observers were touched to the very depth of their soul and said so, and purchased pieces that touched their heart. Some muses have commented that this event has been life changing.
The group of Muses of the Muse A-Fair are people who have chosen to live inspired lives. That energy, and the collective love and support of each other is what made this event a success. This is what people who came to see felt. This is what inspired them to stay and talk and meander and purchase and be inspired.
And this why I do what I do. That is why life coaches and creativity coaches do what we do. We are changing the energy of the world by honouring the inspired soul.
Learn more about the event and the work and inspiration of the Muses of the first ever Muse A-Fair here! As well on my site, you can learn more about becoming a muse yourself, or even, training to be a certified creativity group leader.
LIz Gow
Liz Gow
Do you have tips to help others find their tribe locally or internationally?
LIz's Front Garden!
A few years ago, I googled an interest and discovered ‘Body Blissmas’. I explored the site (The Muse is In) and initially thought, “Wow that is a bit out there for me”, but that was my head talking -I had a smile on my face. I can honestly say that I felt my whole body smiling and I thought “why the hell not?” It was different and I wanted different. Being open to trying something that you have never done before can open up your horizons. As you search for your tribe, try to notice the reaction on your face and in your body; Do you feel good, simply by being present?
In New Zealand I have attended so many networking meetings and am so networked out. Now I simply ask, “Do I feel comfortable here?” “Do I feel myself here?” “Am I having fun being here?” As a result, I have now dwindled down to 2 networks that I am happy with. I have learned about my passion, interests, likes and use this as a guide. If you find yourself smiling, laughing out loud and feeling “I so get what they mean”, these are wonderful clues to tell you perhaps you are in the right place. Noticing that someone ‘gets you’ is another great clue.
Your thoughts on the creative process?
Creative Mind Mapping
I had not appreciated just how creative we all are in whatever we do so I had to work through my preconceived ideas of what artists, writers, sculptures, musicians, etc were. I had this feeling of being in awe and that I was not worthy.
Being a part of Renegade Muses and KMCC, I feel totally safe, I don’t feel judged, and it’s helped me find courage; to be vulnerable; and to know what it is like to connect to who I really am. I am not an artist, author or whatever, but I am a creative being and recognizing that, it blows me away the shift I’ve experienced in all that is me. I am getting bolder as I bring creativity into my practice. I’ve written things that I would have normally kept to myself . I have fun. I make way more mistakes, do heaps of colouring in, and I am doing a painting class next weekend. I have more compassion; I give myself permission to take small steps.
Any stories to tell about what’s stopped you in the past from being your creative self?
Thinking Ahead by Liz Gow
Many years ago, I took a stained glass class. I had wanted to do this for years, but after 2 sessions I gave up. I also attended a water colour workshop and gave up. I had not realised at the time that I gave up because what I created was ‘not good enough’. The end result was ‘crap’. I was not allowing myself to be a beginner and constantly compared myself to others each time, thinking, “Wow their stuff is so good, they are creative, this is not for me.” Now when I write this, I think, “How crazy is that?” but it stopped me from trying things, well, I stopped me from trying things and from believing I was a creative person. Right now I am learning to crochet. I make so many mistakes and I’m actually looking forward to putting a photo of it on face book; I may even blog about it. I laugh because it is not how it is meant to be, however I am enjoying being a beginner. Even the ‘Greats’ of our time had to start somewhere. It gives me so much freedom to try new stuff and giggle and be proud at the same time of not giving up. Being in the creative process gives me joy.
Any quirky secrets/ rituals/ silly thoughts that help you show up to honouring your creative self?
Well to be honest I call on the Muses, even mentioning them somehow makes me feel mischievous. Sometimes I just think of Bea Silly and that helps me do something. In the morning, I give myself 5 mins and just ‘colour in.’ I doodle while on the phone at work.. and this is something new for me and it feels good. I love it when I go to meet someone and they are late because I get my wee book out and pen and doodle. I have started getting there earlier so I can play.
Creative planning
Ever feel like you don’t exactly ‘fit in’ in this world?
To be honest I feel like that more and more – ha ha- and yet I feel like I am fitting with me more and more. I still step back from many things because I don’t want to be influenced to fit. What I am noticing is now that I try to not make myself fit in I am in my bliss and the better my energy is. I am getting known for well being, having fun and laughing. I now speak my truth more and have written approximately 4 articles for my Professions newsletter that are a little different.
My muse tribe has shown me that I can be who I am and they are who they are and it works, albeit scary at times. I guess I feel like I belong to this tribe without the strings. It feels more spiritual and bigger than anything I have ever known. What I know is that I am surrounded by like minded people like you, KMCC tribe, my husband, friends, acquaintances. I have been approached by a couple of other people just because I am who I am. I feel now it is more important to absolutely belong to your ‘self’ and the ripple effects are absolutely amazing.
What’s coming up for you in the future?
More of Liz's Home
Next year I am going to do a counselling course – 18 months. I want to work with people who have disordered eating, one to one and groups. Now I know I will want to do it differently with the Muses and coaching and creativity workshops/tools. This means I may not ‘fit’ but now that will not stop me. I will make sure I am professional, safe and ethical and will do it my way. Wow, I said that out loud. How cool is that!
Thanks, Liz, for sharing your journey here. I’m delighted that you are one of my kindred spirits and I think I would love to come visit you in beautiful New Zealand and take one of your workshops!
You can connect with Liz at Liz Gow Life Coach on facebook
Learn more about leading creativity groups here. The Nine Modern Day Muse Facilitator Training is based on the works of, and in collaboration with, Jill Badonsky, and is facilitated by life and creativity coach, Janet Whitehead, who tosses in some of her wily ways to boot.
The Muse A-Fairian Interviews: Inspired people showing up to their inspired lives – there are trials, there are tribulations, but they keep showing up and honouring their passions and purpose. All are a part of the collaborative second annual Muse A-Fair event in December.
Welcome Linda!
Linda McRae
Linda McRae
Views by Linda Photography
Linda discovered photography when she purchased her first digital camera in 2002 for use in her technical writing work at Nortel Networks in Ontario. She never did get to use the camera for that purpose, but instead found herself on a journey of passion in creating fine art images. Since then, she has shown and sold her work in art shows and galleries, and won several awards (including an Award of Excellence in Photography from Muskoka Arts and Crafts Inc. in Bracebridge, Ontario, and an Honourable Mention from the Kamloops Art Council). In Kamloops, Linda continues to show and sell her fine art images. In addition, she also captures “extraordinary moments” at action events.
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Have you always been creative?
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I struggle always with this question and usually, my first response was always no. But when I really think about it, yes, I believe that I have always been creative, in some form, but always in the sense of replicating something that someone else had created. I don’t remember much about being creative as a child, but as a teen, I tried a lot of different things, such as reproducing vinyl record album covers freehand, embroidery, and making a beaded belt. I never did finish the embroidery and beading projects, but I did keep them, and I still have them. That belt would make a good choker, now!
As a young adult, I knitted and crocheted lots, and tried my hand at designing and knitting sweaters on a knitting machine and designing and hand-knitting or crocheting bedspreads or afghans. I still have a couple of those unfinished projects too.
Nothing seemed to work for me. Anything I did create always fell short of expectation; it was just never good enough and did not excite me enough to keep going. Until one day in 2002, the digital camera I purchased on eBay (for work) arrived at my door and I used it to photograph the flowers in my garden. My life was changed. All other interests fell to the wayside as my passion for photography was ignited and continues to burn almost 10 years later. Has it really only been that long? It feels like a lifetime because I’ve achieved so much in that time.
And recently, through my friendship with Janet and her Creative Muse students, I’ve discovered a creative ability in doodling and painting too, but photography is where my heart is at.
Kamloopa Pow Wow by Linda McRae
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Any stories to tell about what stops you from showing up to your creativity?
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I work the equivalent of two full-time jobs 1) technical writing which provides my bread and butter income, creating software configuration manuals in the telecommunications industry, and 2) freelance action event photographer, capturing extraordinary moments of dogs and humans in action which I then offer for sale as prints or digital files; the volume I shoot is very high, and my workload is heavy. I find it hard to justify taking time off to “play”. My friends literally have to drag me kicking and screaming away from my desk, so friends…. please drag me away from my desk more often!
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Has small steps or lowering expectations helped you to show up?
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I believe that small steps and lowering expectations are a really great way to help one show up, but my mindset has always been that if I can’t spend some considerable time on “something” in one sitting, what’s the point in starting?
But on the other hand, the projects I want to work on are usually so big that sheer overwhelm stops me from showing up. I really need to work on that, to break those really big projects into smaller bite-sized pieces and just keep processing those bite-size pieces a bit at a time. Because I know that all of a sudden, the project will be finished! I need to apply that concept to keeping my house clean too. I can’t remember the last time I dragged my vacuum cleaner out of the closet!
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Do you get the feeling of being in the zone when you are in
your creative process? Can you describe that?
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I have experienced being “in the zone” while working behind the lens.
I become quite absorbed in what I’m doing to the point that I lose awareness of time, my environment, and the people around me. And when I capture an image that really works for me, I feel a kind of “click” deep inside my core. Interesting… click goes the shutter, click goes my soul.
Band Abstract by Linda McRae
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What projects are you currently working on?
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The photos of my work here demonstrate some creative photography techniques that I’ve been working on. Some people paint with paint and brush. I am learning to paint with light and motion.
I have in mind to create huge (and I mean “HUGE”) pieces of photographic wall art. They are expensive to produce, and I only have the financial means to create one or two, but first, I have to decide “which images.” I have so many that I like, it’s really hard to choose!
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Events/shows that you’d like to tell us about?
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* RIH Craft A Fair, November 6, Interior Savings Centre
* Christmas at the Square, November 18-19, St. Andrews on the Square
AND of course…
* Muse-A-Fair, December 2-3, Pavillion Theatre
I’m one of those last minute decision makers… what I’ll be showing at Muse A Fair will not be revealed until you get there, because right now… even I don’t know!
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Note from Janet: Oh, I think you do so know now… and I’m excited about seeing your works! ~smile~ Thanks so much for being here, Linda, and helping others to see themselves and know they are normal if they have big projects, and that feeling that one must dedicate huge blocks of time. Thanks for the reminder that breaking it down and small steps can bring results. There are many tools to help get to your dreams, and Linda’s? She gives herself permission to keep showing up.. LOOK at the amazing works she produces!!!!!!! I adore following your “Views by Linda Photography” pages, Linda. Thank you for the visual wonders that inspire me.
Here’s how to contact Linda and where to follow her inspired works!
View by Linda Photography www.viewsbylindaphotography.com
Self Portrait by Hope Mikal
Hope Mikal
Age 22
Artist – Painter, Haiku Writer, Lover Of Photography (and all mediums really!)
Creative Workshop Facilitator
Hope, you are an adventure in creativity… what would you like people to know for sure?
My ideal creative space is a live demonstration where I am surrounded by others and their positive energy although, I create mostly in my home studio with my art loving cat, Rembrandt. (Janet’s note: I’ve SEEN kitty prints on Hope’s works!)
My pieces have been described as ‘refreshing,’ ‘happy,’ and ‘sensual.’ I’ve even heard my work is a mixture of Rainbow Brite, the 80’s cartoon character and Mary Engelbreit, who is known worldwide as an arts related Martha Stewart.
I’ve always wanted to be an artist ever since I was a child. Through coaching with Janet Whitehead, I realised my worries about money and having a ‘suitable career’ were keeping me from calling myself an ‘artist’. Once I let myself play with paint on a daily basis and publically show my art, it was so satisfying! That was more than two years ago, now my artwork can be viewed year round at The Art We Are in Kamloops, B.C.
I host workshops once in while for creative souls, paint shop windows, love life. I have recently joined on as a Kamloops Arts Council Board Director. In December, I will be at the second annual Muse A-Fair.
Do family and friends support your creativeness?
I am so grateful for my many friends and family who support my artwork. In July, my solo exhibition ‘Rainbow Wonderland’ was a great success because of my many friends who helped me with little things such as picking out an outfit, setting up the food and drinks, and sticking around to enjoy the evening. (One friend even held the chocolate fountain full of melted chocolate in the passenger seat of my car in an attempt to safely get it home for baking. Not a fantastic idea… but let’s just say it was a delicious disaster!)
My fiance, Jordan, is always supporting my crazy ideas, even when our apartment is covered in paint and paper mache, he has a good laugh about it, sometimes he helps with cleaning the huge mess later. When I am talking to myself out loud, he is the little man on my shoulder feeding the conversation.
‘Some Good Karma, Some Bad Writing’ is the name of a writing group I meet up with usually once a week; talking to these lovely friends about projects and life keeps me creatively in check. I believe having a great support system is an important part of being an artist to help one grow… from a hatchling… to taking her first steps out of the nest… and spreading her wings.
(pssst, Hope, do you have this photo in a bigger image file? I’d love for everyone to see that inspiration in your eyes!)
Hope of Hope-Full Universe
Were you a creative kid? An imaginative kid?
As a child, playing outdoors was where I spent a lot of my time. My brother and a few
of the neighbour children played in our two storey tree house, playing ‘house,’ ‘store,’ and ‘librarian.’ I always had my nose in a book, especially during the summer reading program at the local library. In grade five, each student was assigned a journal that we handed in weekly. Mine was filled with reports about the endangered Vanouver Island Marmots, whales, poems, and stories I wrote. Art was my favourite school subject and I’m pretty sure I have always had a passion for painting. The first time I won something was a local poster contest, my grandma and I went on a helicopter ride! Whenever a family member or teacher asked me what I want to be when I grow up, I earnestly replied, ”an artist!”
What does creativity mean to you?
I believe creativity is letting go of expectations and the how to’s. Art is an expression of the soul, of who you are, whatever form it comes in it needs to be acknowledged and patted on the back. Everyone is creative, even a left brained politician doodles on his memos. I really encourage my friends in their creative adventures as Charles Horton Cooley said, “An artist cannot fail; it a success to be one.” My interpretation: it is a success to pay attention, and allow the time, supplies and just ‘show up’ to your art. Anything is possible.
I have two of your paintings in my home that feed my soul! Please tell us what we can look forward to in the future?
Projects I am currently working on… Well, I need to plan what I’m showing at The Muse A-Fair… haha, which is coming up sooner than later. I have several paintings half finished. One is a stuffed rabbit from my childhood. I am working on getting the eyes ‘just right’. Another one is a set of rainbow surround sound speakers. It’s going to look really cool when it’s done. I’m dreaming big and thinking of writing a book of haiku poetry called Haiku 365, with a haiku and possibly art for every day of the year.
A favourite quote?
“The easiest thing to be in the world is you.
The most difficult thing to be is what other people want you to be.”
– Leo Buscaglia
Thanks for having me, Janet! =)
Thanks for inspiring us, Hope!
Who wouldn’t want to contact Hope Mikal , Artist, Writer, and Certified Creative Workshop Facilitator…. here’s where you can do that!
Hopefull.Universe@Gmail.com
www.facebook.com/hopefulluniverse
The Muse A-Fairians Interviews:
Real people, magical people, inspired people, people I have the blessing of getting to know through my work, people just like you. In this series, they will be sharing their trials, tribulations, creative passions and reminding you of your wisdom, wonder, and even ‘normalness’.. for a creative soul, that is.
Una Connor,
Kamloops BC
Where does your inspiration come from?
I am inspired by the journey and Love of life. Every time I turn a corner I am inspired by nature, other people, and of course the universe…… that is such a great mystery. Sometimes I even go deep enough into my own vortex that I inspire and a-muse myself. Music lights the fires of inspiration deeply, and as I create and listen and dance in between projects and drum to the beats that move me, I hope that my art can inspire the same joy and healing for others.
Do you easily consider yourself an artist?
It’s really apparent that I am an artist, and if I were to say that I am not would be pure denial or loss of self. Every day, even when I don’t want to, my brain somehow transforms everyday life to art somehow.
I can’t look at a crab apple tree without wondering if the star in the middle is a teeny tinny version of an apple, If I cut it in half, can I make cute little tiny stamps for some kind of miniature art project?
Or, walking I see a weed growing out of a crack, and feel compelled to photograph it, cause you just never know, that could make a really cool tshirt iron on if I decide to make tshirts one day…….
Inspired? Music inspires me! I make art to music all the time and even sing out my frustrations by making up a good venting session to the tune of say, You are my Sunshine.
Every day is an inspiration to see the world through my artists eye. I believe everyone has this within themselves. I consider everyone to be an artist in their own right.
Projects you are working on now?
My most current projects , involve power tools . I have been learning about and using a reciprocal scroll saw, dremel tool and drill, for preparing shells, bone and antler, or tiles and wood for designing and incorporating in home decor designs, sculptures, and jewelry.
I am also currently working on self publishing and promotion /distribution of my art book called, “My Vision of Energy Healing.” Copies of the book and prints of the art work will be available to order on line soon!
One of the most exciting up and coming events in my current life is The 2nd annual *Muse a Fair*,along side some of my “Tribalmusekins”( my new favorite add to dictionary word)
We will be showing and promoting and /or selling our creations and ideas and services from Friday Dec 2, 12 – 9 pm to Dec 3rd 10 am to 4 pm at The Pavillion Theatre, Kamloops BC. Learn more here!
If you would like to know more about my art, contact me at unacreations@shaw.ca (web site coming soon!)
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Thank you, Una! Grateful to know you!
Coreena McBurnie
Writer, Reader and Creative Adventurer
Kamloops, BC
Coreena and her children reading their published Nanowrimo books
About Coreena:
When Coreena was nine months old her mom gave her a picture book which showed a baby getting out of its crib. That was it, she never stayed in her crib again and a love affair with books, a source of information and entertainment, was born. Over the last few years, she has allowed her Muse to emerge and has learned to recognize the creative process in her everyday life, to feel empowered by it, and to take time for it. One of the ways she does this is through writing. For three years, she has not only participated in the National Novel Writing Month, she has been instrumental in helping many young people participate as well. At the Muse A-Fair, Coreena will showcase Nanowrimo and provide a space for unfettered, enthusiastic, fun, fly by the seat of your pants writing.
What projects you are currently working on?
I am getting ready to participate in my third year of National Novel Writing Month where the goal is to write a 50,000 word novel in the month of November.
Also, I am almost done editing my first Nano novel from two years ago. It is a middle school fantasy called The Prophesy of Ilverzah.
What helps you to show up to your creative projects?
I have a writing buddy (yes, you Janet)!!! This has been amazing for me to get things done. Every (most every) morning, I call her at 9:30 in the morning, set the timer for 20 minutes, then get writing or editing – 20 minutes is such a non threatening amount of time. After 20 minutes I call her back and debrief. This is such a supportive, gentle way to write. After 20 minutes, I am often eager to keep going, but in the back of my mind, I know if I only ever do the 20 minutes, I have still done something. This is also a great way to celebrate the baby steps. Sometimes all I can do in 20 minutes is edit one page or get my notes organized. These are all important steps, but are often overlooked as part of the process.
Also, I am part of a very informal writing group. We meet most weeks for coffee and talk about our projects, brainstorm and do writing exercises. It is so much fun to meet with this great group of writers.
Then there is the threat of deadlines. I think that is why Nanowrimo works so well for me. There is a crazy deadline which makes me work crazy hard.
The last one is chocolate. I often wonder if Nano was picked to be in November because it is the day after Hallowe’en. I get through November by raiding my kid’s Hallowe’en chocolate.
Any quirky secrets/ rituals/ silly thoughts that help you show up to your creativity?
Often, showing up for me means getting some quiet time and keeping my kids busy. This quite frequently involves playdates and movies. I think the first year I did Nanowrimo, my daughter, who was not yet in school, watched Alladin every day. I found that I can usually write 1000 words in the space of one Disney movie.
The next one is a bit embarrassing. I have this crown that I put on last year when I was writing. It got me into writing mode and was a signal for my kids to leave me alone unless there was an emergency.
When you create do you ever wonder ‘who did that?’
Yes. In fact when I reread my last Nano novel, I could not even remember writing some of it. I was on the edge of my seat wondering how certain issues would get resolved! It was the strangest feeling.
Was there a moment or event that you can remember that triggered knowing you are a creative person?
Taking your Muse class was very powerful for me. I think I always knew I had something creative in me, but taking this course made me realize I could make it a priority and explore it in a fun, non threatening way.
I suspect you have an inner critic… how do you pay attention and move past that nagging little brat?
Again, this is another reason I like Nanowrimo. The goal is not to write a good 50,000 word novel, just to write a 50,000 word novel. You should see some of the terrible things I write in November (or maybe not…). This crazy deadline shifts the focus from quality to quantity. Whenever I worried about writing a good novel, I barely got started. I ask my inner critic brat to go on vacation for one month and let it know it can come back in December. This works for me, I already have 2 novels written and plan to have a third by the end of November. Sure, they were bad, but they were done and gave me something to edit. Editing makes a novel good.
Do you easily consider yourself an artist/ writer/ chef/healer (etc)? or if that’s hard for you, please share any thoughts around this.
This is definitely hard for me. I haven’t sold anything, I haven’t even sent off anything to a publisher yet. But my thoughts are changing just because I show up to my writing most days. I am making writing a priority in my life and am ever so slowly changing how I think about being a writer and what a writer is. Does publishing matter? Or is my enjoyment of it enough?
Do you know what you’ll be showing at the Muse A-fair.. or are you still percolating? Or procrastinating? Or planning to go crazy on a deadline? Or all of the above?
I plan on showcasing writing and National Novel Writing Month – and I get to share a table with the creative Melanie Van Mol, who is also going to participate in Nanowrimo this year. She has read me some of her work and I love her writing, it is so sensitive and beautiful. I would love for people to share their writing with us at our table. We may even have a book corner for kids. The Muse A-Fair takes place 3 days after Nanowrimo ends, so we might be a bit frazzled, but we will plan something fun.
Thanks so much, Janet, for having me on your blog today. It was fun.
And thank you, Coreena… I’m gonna get me a crown….
Coreena’s links:
Blog: Books & Other Creative Adventures
email: coreenamcburnie@gmail.com
Facebook: Books & Other Creative Adventures
Twitter
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