DOING THE WORK IS SOMETIMES MESSY

BOOK 1 of
The Collie Chronicles

I'm in the process of writing the second book of The Collie Chronicles series. This is an exploration that many times seems like chaos. Jotting down notes and pieces of scenes and random thoughts about characters or what might happen because of their choices. And research! I invariably come up with a great idea for the story that requires more knowledge, a field trip or talking to an expert. 

Then comes trying to bring order to these pieces. Last month's class on the Heroine's Journey helped with that. So does my ten steps to happily ever after process, and a scene outline similar to one Christine Young posted recently . 

Wish I could say magic happens when I start writing, and sometimes it does. But usually that magic comes together slowly after the first draft, second or third draft, then layering in details and making edits. 

Sure, I get frustrated--usually because of "interruptions" like sleeping and eating that mean I can't write 24 hours a day. And pretty much guaranteed the journey to "The End" makes unexpected side trips and detours, delaying my arrival at that coveted goal. 

Finally, another story is complete that will hopefully sweep readers up in adventure, joy, and gasps of surprise before wrapping them in a feeling of satisfaction.

Chaos, order, surprises, magic, satisfaction. I've come a long way from a first-grader who always colored inside the lines to a writer who enjoys the sometimes messy work of being creative!