tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1445763253287799872024-03-05T14:30:11.169+00:00First Draft CafeA place for writers to drop in, unwind, and relax between drafts. This blog is updated as and when I can manage it, between real life and fiction. Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.comBlogger435125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-77672285065799127602023-08-24T15:59:00.003+00:002023-08-25T08:56:19.118+00:00The Comeback Post <p></p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9FLoc-CN0erDM6guP0NsPSHWGEXuuir_251HxrDNGdnK_vzDzxK8-5bSj6lbdfmGIIOtDgNe5xdiErspVFIR-Vk1qm5sRXTA-8NQPgtokfZXZWFwAsgzX6GsMWzRdhn9F56QQzl2y8E94JxQbEJK6WwUCeF2bP9BxSPB2OOplQjJ9pOk7-TGTBiKhdeh_/s2426/IMG_1735%202.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2426" data-original-width="2263" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9FLoc-CN0erDM6guP0NsPSHWGEXuuir_251HxrDNGdnK_vzDzxK8-5bSj6lbdfmGIIOtDgNe5xdiErspVFIR-Vk1qm5sRXTA-8NQPgtokfZXZWFwAsgzX6GsMWzRdhn9F56QQzl2y8E94JxQbEJK6WwUCeF2bP9BxSPB2OOplQjJ9pOk7-TGTBiKhdeh_/s320/IMG_1735%202.jpeg" width="298" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p>Where have I been for the last two and a half years? </p><p>I could tell you the mothership came back for me, but somehow I don't think you'd believe me. Although the world has felt very alien these last few years. So much has happened globally and personally. </p><p>Mostly, I've been umming and arring about blogging again, maybe because I'm hearing, and reading that blogs aren't worth the effort. And that made me feel sad. It does seem that many of my friends have quit their blogs in favour of other ways to communicate with the world. YouTube, Tick Tock, Facebook, Instagram and a few other platforms are all still popular.</p><p>Instagram has gained strength, vlogging via YouTube is very popular and Facebook seems to have become the way forward for many individuals and especially groups. </p><p>Twitter has disappeared with a change of ownership, in its place some ghastly thing called X and I'm not even going there as I really don't get what is happening. Instagram Threads is the new kid on the block, it's text based and taking the world of social media by storm. </p><p>In the end it boils down to why you're doing it, and what suits you best. Or more specifically, why I want to do it? </p><p>Looking back, I regret not blogging for all of that time, and not recording the places I've been, the things I've seen, and the chit chat between bloggers with similar interests, like writing, travel, walking and much more. First Draft Cafe was a wonderful record of time well spent. Of the things I was doing, of the good times and the hard times too. I like to think I inspired and uplifted my friends and followers with my chattty style. </p><p>However, that missed time has vanished into the ether, and it's history now, and as you get older you appreciate the past much more. My memory isn't as sharp as it once was, and I regret not being able to look back on this blog as I did before. I'm not going to dwell on it though, instead I'm going to push the 'restart' button and see where it takes me. </p><p>I might be a little clumsy but here we go.</p><p><b>Where I'm Up to Now</b></p><p><b>Writing News</b> - This last week I've been planning out how I was going to put all the pieces I've written together and try and call it a book! I'm a panster and planning my novel is alien to me. I wish it wasn't the case and I've tried doing an outline and structuring everything but it just doesn't work for my muddled brain. But then neither does having lots of scenes written and trying to see where they all go! Any tips would be very much appreciated. This writing a novel lark is such hard work - readers have no idea do they? </p><p>I've also got to knuckle down and do a flash fiction piece in the next few days, so today I'm going to doodle a mind map which I know will throw up lots of different ideas. The theme is DAY TRIP and there isn't a prize, it's just for fun and I've got three hundred words to play with, but if I can do it in less, that'd be great! </p><p><b>Time Out </b>- Such an important part of life and something I truly believe makes all of us function better. It's no good to be 'on' all the time. Even in the busiest of days it's good practice to give ourselves the necessary down time to unwind and recharge. </p><p><b>So far this week - </b></p><p><b>Saturday</b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFPZGbJ-ZtROIJvvhKNweNyI4NqGSZq0fV1h30a2kbzBZogql79uVEqJNwxPJ4LyUCS6Hv1DhOWKhkl5U9Zq-VFMAxbzUU9GGEwRjw9AFKBQIvZ5mcb6mT1gTgsE7TVAYNSlMCworVu8uHUENi4D8uavhvsEBVm4BwEUZysKNmHft6qH1cOZW-LZbwlkCA/s1020/Cafe%20in%20the%20Tiled%20Hall%20Leeds%20.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1020" data-original-width="816" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFPZGbJ-ZtROIJvvhKNweNyI4NqGSZq0fV1h30a2kbzBZogql79uVEqJNwxPJ4LyUCS6Hv1DhOWKhkl5U9Zq-VFMAxbzUU9GGEwRjw9AFKBQIvZ5mcb6mT1gTgsE7TVAYNSlMCworVu8uHUENi4D8uavhvsEBVm4BwEUZysKNmHft6qH1cOZW-LZbwlkCA/w256-h320/Cafe%20in%20the%20Tiled%20Hall%20Leeds%20.jpeg" width="256" /></a></div>At the weekend I met up with my daughter in Leeds and we had a lovely day out. We visited the Leeds Art Gallery, which has much to offer, and we spent quite a bit of time in this exhibition. <p></p><p><a href="https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/events/leeds-art-gallery/things-left-unsaid-percy-wyndham-lewis-iris-barry-helen-saunders-and-the-story-of-praxitella/?occurrence=2023-06-22">Things Left Unsaid: Percy Wyndham Lewis, Iris Barry, Helen Saunders and the story of Praxitella</a></p><p>I'm not familiar with the artwork and it was interesting to see the paintings, but for me, a writer with a very active imagination, it was much more interesting to hear the story about the relationships between Percy Wyndham and the two women. Some shenanigans went on there I'm sure. </p><p>There was such a lot in the gallery to see but we decided that one exhibition was enough for us as we still had more places to go, we did however nip into the amazing cafe. The Tiled Hall as its known, originally the main library reading room, and from 1888-1941 a sculpture court was renovated extensively in 2007 with the help of English Heritage, to reveal the original fabric of the room. The space is now one of the most popular and iconic eateries in the city of Leeds and you can see why. A truly magnificent Victorian hall. </p>We also visited <a href="https://www.leedscornexchange.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Corn Exchange</a> which is an iconic cultural masterpiece and one of Britain's finest Victorian buildings. However once you walk inside, surprisingly it is still a centre for trade. It houses the most amazing array of individual businesses, and I have to say I was tempted, as behind every door was a different business, Lots of individual gifts, crammed into these tiny we shops. I couldn't resist a new pair of earrings. It's well worth a visit if you're in Leeds. <div><div><br /></div><div>I had a lovely time with my daughter. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Tuesday </b><br /><p>My neighbour gifted me some plants from her allotment, antirinhams which she advised might survive, and might not. </p><p>I've got a new shrub bed and I'd mentioned to my next door neighbour that it needed a splash of colour, but we're at the end of most things now so I'd given up looking and had decided to wait until the winter bedding plants become available, which won't be too long now. Anyhow, I ended up planting the antirinhams and now I'm playing the hokey cokey watering them. </p><p>They're in my front garden, and lots of my neighbours, many of whom I don't know came by and said hello and enquired what I was doing. Maybe they thought I was some mad lady trying to revive the almost dead bucket of flowers, or perhaps it was just the opening they needed to start a conversation. It's good to talk. We're all pretty new here and I've noticed people are keen to be part of the community. </p><p>It's 50/50 on if the plants survive, I'm happy in the knowledge that I've given them a chance. They could just give me a nice little display too. Fingers crossed. </p><p><b>Wednesday</b></p><p>I went straight out after work for a cheapy meal at one of the 'budget brand' pubs. It was lovely to catch up and chat with a friend. We were only there for a couple of hours but it was enjoyable, and took us both out of what had been a busy day at our respective jobs. </p><p>I've noticed as I'm getting older, my energy levels are changing. It's a weird feeling because you do a mental checklist of everything in your head.</p><p><i>Am I overdoing it? Did I take my vitamins? Am I eating enough protein? Enough fibre? Am I exercising enough? Getting enough sleep? </i></p><p>The truth is I probably do need to go a little slower with things but its a tall order when you are ever curious about things. </p><p>Thank you for taking the time to read my blog. There will be more soon. </p><p>Please do leave me a comment, I love interacting and if you've got a blog, let me know so I can visit. </p><p>Have a great week! </p></div></div>Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-32949020516237216422021-01-01T00:00:00.001+00:002021-01-01T00:00:07.836+00:00Happy New Year! - 2021 is Here<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rVWFhYwoXPU/X-vgfnA4hAI/AAAAAAAAssE/N5mgM_o5VGEAD2QE4RoauaB9ERHMu25SgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1920/happy-new-year-5810635_1920.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" height="461" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rVWFhYwoXPU/X-vgfnA4hAI/AAAAAAAAssE/N5mgM_o5VGEAD2QE4RoauaB9ERHMu25SgCLcBGAsYHQ/w677-h461/happy-new-year-5810635_1920.jpg" width="677" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/geralt-9301/" target="_blank">Gerd Altmann </a>from Pixabay <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>It's here! <p></p><p>2021 is a very much longed for year so let's get it underway. </p><p>Firstly, may I wish you all good health and happiness, and I mean that from the bottom of my heart.</p><p>What's in store for us, no one can say, but as long as we keep leaning forward we'll be going in the right direction. </p><p>Make this the year to:</p><p><b>1. Be kind</b> - Kindness improves our quality of life. It brings people together and it will make you feel part of something good. Kindness can change the world.</p><p><b>2. Stop being busy being busy -</b> S-L-O-W your life down. We're not on this earth to be busy, we're here to build relationships, go places, be creative, help others. It's up to you to decide how you should be spending your time but being busy being busy isn't the way. </p><p><b>3. Ask yourself every night: 'What 3 good things happened to me today?' </b> <b>- </b>Be grateful and keep a gratitude journal. It'll feel weird at first but the more you do it the more this world will look better and brighter. Get others onboard, make time around the dinner table with your children to share what each of you is grateful for at the end of each day. Give it a few weeks and see the difference. </p><p><b>4. Make time for your friends and family -</b> Spending time with people close to us makes us feel happy. Social time is especially important. So go on and make that call to Granny, do that date night, make your other half a special meal. Spend quality time with your children, go kick a ball round the park, or make a cake together. Make memories. </p><p><b>5. Drink more water - </b>It helps to maintain the balance of your body fluids. Flushing toxins away from your kidneys, it also increases your energy and relieves fatigue. You'll be more alert and you'll think clearer. </p><p><b>6. Go for walks - </b>Apart from boosting your mood, helping with weight loss and strengthening your heart, walking can ease joint pain and lower your blood sugar. You'll also see things you've never seen before, do the same walk through the changing season and you'll see the difference. </p><p><b>7. Think positively -</b> Get an optimistic outlook on things and you'll stress less. It will have a big impact on your physical and mental health too. Positivity is infectious so you'll be helping other people too. </p><p><b>8. Eat fewer calories -</b> Rustle up some healthy new meals and drop some excess weight. We all know the health benefits of being a healthy weight, and who knows you could be rediscovering clothes at the back of the wardrobe before too long. </p><p><b>9. Read more books -</b> Or start listening to audio books. Escape to places you've never been to before. Be someone else. Walk in their shoes. Learn about history or how something works. </p><p><b>10. Work on your dreams - </b>Set time aside every day to learn how to play that instrument, make that business plan or sell those clothes online. Remember you only get out what you put in, and this time next year who knows where you'll be if you put the time in now. </p><p>2021 is here now, so grab it with both hands and take control. </p><p>What are you going to learn or do in 2021? </p><p><br /></p>
Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-23196851766625199112020-12-30T00:15:00.057+00:002020-12-31T17:12:29.476+00:00Making my Way Back Slowly and Planning for a 'Grab & Go' Year<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9uWt5TZiKSA/X-vCGwjRboI/AAAAAAAAsr4/pyZYKPGN9wI59KPcWyY7OvYkPAh0q7cWACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/5EDE4345-5CF6-4344-8CED-E456E7DFB5F4_1_201_a.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1866" height="478" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9uWt5TZiKSA/X-vCGwjRboI/AAAAAAAAsr4/pyZYKPGN9wI59KPcWyY7OvYkPAh0q7cWACLcBGAsYHQ/w638-h478/5EDE4345-5CF6-4344-8CED-E456E7DFB5F4_1_201_a.jpeg" width="638" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter Walk - Thornton Reservoir, Leicestershire </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>A lot has happened since I last posted, which has made it very difficult for me to pen any words, I'm not going to talk about it, but I'm here now. </p><p>I've missed you dear readers and I've missed blogging. </p><p>Going forward I hope to bring you more of my photography, as well as what I hope will be a generous amount of helpful and thought provoking articles on creative writing. As well as lots of inspiring and motivational words too, because many of us could do with a little motivation right now. </p><p>Usually at this time of year, I'd sit down with a coffee and notepad and do a bit of mental decluttering - I'd attempt to sort my time, energy and money, in other words I'd organise things more efficiently - not only things I need to do, but also things I want to do and can't seem to afford or get around to doing. Big life changes or small life changes I'd be setting myself quite a few goals. </p><p>However, in 2021 I'll be thinking differently, I'm not making a long list, with lots of sub lists, instead I'm focusing on one or two big things for each quarter of the year and then I'll have a couple of smaller achievable monthly goals. </p><p>I've jotted stuff down, I have a very short list of big goals and a longer list of smaller achievable things. For example, my first big goal of the year will be focusing on decluttering my home, which will require many different steps. I'm going to call it 'Operation Declutter' and suspect my master plan will get derailed several times, therefore I declare 2021 to be my 'Grab and Go' year!</p><p>In other words, when I see an opportunity to get on and realise any part of my plan, I'll grab it and go with it. Let's see what I can achieve as I'm sure it'll have it's highlights and I expect there to be both laughter and tears. </p><p>January is a good time to get back on track with health and fitness stuff, which requires focus. So one of my monthly goals is to plan out healthy meal menus and shop and cook accordingly. </p><p>I'm also keen to kickstart daily walking again, which is much harder to do on darker days when it's cold outside. </p><p>Lastly, I'll definitely be writing in January - predominantly working on this blog to make it the best it can be. </p><p>That's definitely enough to be going on with, so to summarize here are my goals.</p><p><b>Quarterly Goal - January/February/March 2021 - Operation Declutter</b> </p><p><b>Monthly Goals for January</b></p><p>Eat healthily. </p><p>Daily Walks</p><p>Blogging</p><p>I'll let you know how I get on. </p><p>Do share in the comments if you're setting goals for the new year, or perhaps you're taking a different approach in 2021? </p><p>I'm looking forward to reading your replies. </p><p><br /></p>Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com20United Kingdom55.378051 -3.43597327.067817163821154 -38.592223 83.688284836178838 31.720277tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-44004377991483050952019-01-13T18:40:00.001+00:002019-01-13T18:42:30.212+00:00Two Weeks into the New Year<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kPh0hAFnmho/XDt5BGrPbjI/AAAAAAAAc4I/7XWBob9BAwUFX6ybxx3VMF5qguSgFsCJACLcBGAs/s1600/6th%2BJanuary%2B2019%2BRagdale%2BWalk%2B.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kPh0hAFnmho/XDt5BGrPbjI/AAAAAAAAc4I/7XWBob9BAwUFX6ybxx3VMF5qguSgFsCJACLcBGAs/s640/6th%2BJanuary%2B2019%2BRagdale%2BWalk%2B.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Winter Walk, 6th January 2019 - Maria A Smith</i></td></tr>
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Almost two weeks into the new year, and I've come to grinding halt. I've caught the dreaded lurgy that's doing the rounds, a really nasty cold virus which has left me literally speechless! And laid low.<br />
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And, to top that, this morning, I broke yet another tooth! I tell you I'm keeping my dentist in business, I reckon I must own a share of the practice the amount of times I've been in and out of there in the last few years. Never mind, worse things happen, and everything was going well up until the 7th of January, and I've accomplished some of what I set out to do this month. It's merely a set back.<br />
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I kicked my #Walk1000miles challenge off, on the first day of the year, and managed to get out daily. On the first weekend, I enjoyed a lovely walk on a beautiful January afternoon. It really was a delight to breath in the fresh air and see the bare trees and the empty fields. I was quite surprised to see early blossom though, as I've been past that spot before and it's been March before I've seen any blossom on the branches.<br />
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I also did the King Richard III Walking Trail last weekend, which is a tour around the city visiting sites Richard would be familiar with back in his day, the churches he would of attended, bridges he would of crossed and all that sort of thing. You buy a booklet with the trail map in it and you set off on your own, at your own pace. I didn't have time to go into the Visitors Centre, or the Cathedral as it was just closing it's doors when I got back off the trail walk. As I'm local, I can do it on another day.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mDGdR-9MX8I/XDuC740ypAI/AAAAAAAAc4c/UiKqOxtkt_szjjUXLEd_v8RSMBCs1UgfwCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_c4d.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mDGdR-9MX8I/XDuC740ypAI/AAAAAAAAc4c/UiKqOxtkt_szjjUXLEd_v8RSMBCs1UgfwCLcBGAs/s400/fullsizeoutput_c4d.jpeg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Leicester - January 2019 - Maria A Smith</i></td></tr>
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Writing wise, I've done very little other than some edits on my novel, a flash fiction piece, and the beginnings of a non fiction chapter.<br />
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There isn't much else to report, other than I've had my hair cut shorter as you can see in the images above, well perhaps not the one with the hat.<br />
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As for finding calm, I have been resting, but that has been forced rest due to the virus. To tell you the truth, I've not had much energy, it's sort of took my legs from under me, so the next week will be all about recovery.<br />
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What have you been up to?<br />
<br />Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-62116424487148938082019-01-01T18:00:00.001+00:002020-12-30T02:00:55.656+00:00Living Your Best Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello, and a Happy New Year to you, and thank you for taking the time to visit, it's been a bit mad and I've got bogged down with other things, but I'm here now.<br />
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Don't you just love the beginning of a new year? We can start afresh, it's an opportunity to rethink our game and make a new plan or readjust an old one.<br />
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<b> I've got three big goals for 2019</b><br />
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<b>BIG GOAL #1 - Define My Writing Life</b> - It's time to establish what I really want to do. Here are three projects I'll definitely be working on this year.<br />
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# Non-fiction project - As mentioned in a previous post, I'm teaming up with <a href="https://joinedupwritingpodcast.wordpress.com/category/blog-posts/" target="_blank">Wayne Kelly, from over at The Joined Up Writing Podcast</a>, we're collaborating to produce a book together, and we'll be sharing details in the coming months.<br />
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#The Novel - I still have a lot to do, and I'll be continuing with it this year.<br />
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#Filling my Creative Well - Attending writerly events and other inspiring days out.<br />
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<b>BIG GOAL #2 - Health & Fitness - </b>Things have crept up on me over the years, I'm asthmatic, I suffer with horrendous backache from time to time and I'm overweight. I want to take control of things.<br />
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#Walking Challenge - <a href="https://www.walk1000miles.co.uk/" target="_blank">Walk1000miles</a> is a national countrywide challenge, which involves walking 1000 miles over the year - I've signed up, and yes, it's scary mad, but after speaking to others who have done the challenge, I'm hopeful I'll become healthier.<br />
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<b>BIG GOAL #3 Finding Calm - </b>Time to get off the 'Busy Bandwagon' - I've got to for my sanity, and enjoyment of life.<br />
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#The Chimp Paradox - Read and digest this mind management programme.<br />
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#Sleep - Go to bed earlier. I'm hoping it's as simple as that!<br />
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That's it, three big goals, broken down, the next step is organising them into manageable chunks and doing the work.<br />
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What have you planned for the year ahead and how are you going to get there? <br />
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-39260002038205753562018-09-09T12:25:00.003+00:002020-03-26T14:11:31.946+00:00Making Time When You Have No Time, 0r Stop Being Lazy - Which is it? <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0okDFhA_jmM/W5Q1KmNiNkI/AAAAAAAAMj0/2R8Sl3Kqd4IOb9u2AX-MJJlNvp4nMVInwCLcBGAs/s1600/Oxford%2BCollage_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0okDFhA_jmM/W5Q1KmNiNkI/AAAAAAAAMj0/2R8Sl3Kqd4IOb9u2AX-MJJlNvp4nMVInwCLcBGAs/s640/Oxford%2BCollage_1.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Filling the 'Creative Well' in Oxford - Maria A Smith </i></td></tr>
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The title of this post is long, I couldn't decide between 'Making Time When You Have No Time' which seemed apt until I got into it, then I thought, or is 'Or Stop Being Lazy' more the truth of the matter?<br />
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If you're feeling fed up and irritated because you aren't getting your writing done, reading through the points here may hold the answer to what's stopping you?<br />
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<b>Be Kind to Yourself </b>- There's no point in beating yourself up about being lazy, it'll just make you feel worse, instead give yourself permission to draw a line under what's gone before and move forward. Do it now.<br />
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<b>Take a Small Step Forward </b>- Beat that inner resistance (you know what I'm talking about) by doing one small thing towards your writing project today. Getting started can seem the hardiest part so grab a pen and notebook, or your laptop and sit down for 10 minutes and write. Do it again tomorrow, and the day after, chances are you'll find you're writing for longer.<br />
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<b>Remove Distractions </b> - Whatever it is that's helping you to procrastinate, remove it. If it's the internet, switch it off. If it's your phone, turn it to silent and put it in a drawer. If it's because you're at home, go out, find a cafe or somewhere you're not going to start doing laundry or talk to passing family members.<br />
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<b>Declutter Your Mind</b> - If you've got too much going on you'll feel overwhelmed and it'll have the negative effect of making you want to do nothing. Step back, ask yourself, what can I cut from my work hours and what can I cut from my private time?<br />
Question yourself, if you only had an hours free time today what would you do with it? Find your top priorities, see what you can eliminate, minimise or delegate. Examples are, teaching other members of your family to cook a meal, that's at least an hour saved, record your favourite TV programme for later, thus avoiding watching adverts and gaining extra minutes. Stop ironing everything! Stop working through your dinner break for someone else.<br />
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<b>Write a Short List - </b>Prioritise three things you'll do today. Be it, write for 20 minutes, pay the electric bill and cut the lawn. Be sure to tick things off as you do them. Add three new things to the list tomorrow, and the next day, and if for some reason you can't get your three things done, just add them to tomorrows list. Before you know it you'll be playing a game with yourself to get all your tasks finished. Review your list at the end of the week. Feels good to see progress doesn't it?<br />
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<b>See Setbacks as Learning Curves - </b>Going after what you want will inevitably lead to stumbling blocks now and again. Anything new or outside your comfort zone can fail from time to time. It's life, and proof you're living it well, so put it down as a learning experience and move on.<br />
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<b>Hang Out With Positive People - </b>Whoever you hang out with and spend time with will have an influence on your mood. Enthusiasm is infectious so surround yourself with positive people who make you feel good. Listen to uplifting podcasts and audio books, read articles and books that motivate you. Think about what you let into your mind every day and make changes if necessary. Get rid of anything toxic.<br />
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<b>Appreciate Downtime - </b>Think about how you're going to spend time relaxing and recharging. It's good to take breaks and do something different but don't be aimless. Plan when you're going to watch that movie or take that walk, or catch up with old friends. Be conscious about what you're going to do, it'll make you feel more energised and motivated when you go back to your writing. Downtime is truly beneficial and necessary.<br />
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<b>Fill Up Your Creative Well - </b>Never underestimate the power of your creative well. Make sure you're regularly pouring ideas into your well by getting out and about and seeing people and experiencing new things on a regular basis. Go visit the local museum, take a day trip to the seaside or walk about the local market. Book a theatre trip or go listen to the local talent playing live at the pub. You'll find a big payback in your creativity when you do new things - figure out what speaks to your heart and soul and do it often.<br />
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I hope you find the above helpful - now go create!Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-68722376009102829922018-08-26T09:33:00.000+00:002018-08-30T22:34:24.732+00:00Be Kind Every Day<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zl6P94UIyiY/W4SChgl3YAI/AAAAAAAAMjY/C6gvUjh5NsUXVA5qkWgG_nfQTbwVxDw1ACLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_aa4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="916" data-original-width="696" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zl6P94UIyiY/W4SChgl3YAI/AAAAAAAAMjY/C6gvUjh5NsUXVA5qkWgG_nfQTbwVxDw1ACLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_aa4.jpeg" width="484" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Not Quite Singing in the Rain! - Maria A Smith</i></td></tr>
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In recent weeks I've been out and about all over the place, at my own writing group, attended workshops at other groups and have also visited other writerly events. I started to think about how I'd been greeted, and how welcoming each of them had been, and how welcoming my own group is to others.<br />
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Something as simple as a smile, or making sure someone has a seat, or having a chat with them can transform their experience and possibly their life and yours too. You really don't know where kindness to others is going to lead. We're all wired to be kind, and witnessing kindness inspires kindness, making it infectious.<br />
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There's a <a href="http://www.366daysofkindness.com/" target="_blank">blog devoted to acts of kindness, set up by Bernadette Russel</a>, who is also the author of The Little Book of Kindness. In 2011, London was experiencing terrifying rioting and unrest, people were getting hurt and the news was full of bad things. Bernadette was deeply unhappy with things that were happening in the world around her, so in August 2011 she was in a Post Office queue and in front of her was a young man with his hood up, eyes down, someone a lot of people would not approach because right then they were scared. He looked like a rioter.<br />
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He thought his letter was free post only to discover it wasn't. He said he's come back later. Bernadette doesn't know why she did it but she paid his postage for him. He was so grateful, and happy. Bernadette went home feeling good about her actions, it was her way of coping, and she decided that she was going to be kind to a stranger every day for a year, and recorded everything on her blog.<br />
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The blog is testament that being kind is good for all of us, it can be fun and it can change the way you see the world and others.<br />
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Getting back to writing groups, here are my tips for spreading kindness.<br />
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<b># Give Kind Comments </b>- I don't mean you should gush about how good someones work is if it isn't, that's not it at all, what I'm saying is be constructive, but also find a few kind words, such as how their characters names fit the genre, or how well they've described something, or that what they've written is improved from when you last heard it. Tell them you're really glad they've bought their manuscript along today and you're looking forward to hearing more of it soon. Be encouraging.<br />
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<b># Be Kind to Unkind Folk</b> - Always try to respond with kindness when someone is being unpleasant or rude, this will not only have a positive effect on you but it may also change their attitude and mood.<br />
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<b># Buy Someone a Coffee </b>- This never fails to make people feel welcome and it's an opportunity for you to have a chat with them and share what you're working on. Chances are you may have something to offer each other.<br />
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<b># Do Something for Nothing </b>- Yes, that's right, offer to help someone set their work out for a competition, or offer additional critique on a piece of their work, or perhaps help them with a synopsis.<br />
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<b># Say You're Sorry</b> - Occasionally all of us feel angry or frustrated, and we'll take it out on those around us. Be brave and apologise, it'll make the person you're apologising to and you much happier.<br />
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<b># Smile </b>- It's contagious and simple, so go on, spread some happiness around.<br />
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<b># Volunteer </b>- Offer to run a workshop, lead the group, buddy up with new writers or whatever else needs doing to help the group run smoothly. Volunteering is good for you, it boosts mood and beats depression.<br />
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When you're kind to someone you feel closer to them, and it also makes you feel happy. Don't believe me? I challenge you to go out today and commit an act of random kindness, and when you have, do share it here in the comments.<br />
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Oh and if you're wondering about the image above, like how is it relevant? It isn't, it's me over the Bank Holiday weekend returning from a walk. The weather was a washout, but I managed to stay dry in my new waterproof trousers and mac.<br />
<br />Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-36305889144586289922018-08-12T13:24:00.003+00:002018-08-12T13:30:14.818+00:00How to Stop Feeling Guilty About Not Writing Enough<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B8Nm2pGgIIw/W3A0jBTGNfI/AAAAAAAAMKs/U1vF08HGuuIfoJHuckusufLbdv1hiO0IQCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_a85.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B8Nm2pGgIIw/W3A0jBTGNfI/AAAAAAAAMKs/U1vF08HGuuIfoJHuckusufLbdv1hiO0IQCLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_a85.jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Hardwick Hall Garden, Derbyshire - Maria A Smith</i></td></tr>
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Do you sometimes feel a bit of a fraud? Think to yourself, 'Who am I kidding? I'm not a writer, I'm not writing any words. I'm a failure, I should pack it in and forget about writing a novel.' This is a mindset amongst writers that is much more common than you think. Many feel they're failing, but it is possible to turn these thoughts and fears around.<br />
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Here are three hacks that will help you to overcome self doubt and allow you to celebrate your successes.<br />
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<ul>
<li><b>Shut Your Inner-Critic Up - </b>When the voice in your head tells you you're no good and you can't do this, you must tell it the very opposite. Say to yourself, out-loud if it's possible 'I can do this, I'm in control and I'm learning and growing everyday.' When the voice says you've messed that up, respond with, 'Okay, that hasn't worked, but I can do this!' Use self-talk to flip negatives into positives. It really works. </li>
</ul>
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<ul>
<li><b>Write Yourself a Reverse 'To Do List' - An Achievement List - </b>Instead of a huge list of all the writing tasks you've got to do this week - write a list of all your past achievements, and put it on view somewhere where you're going to see it regularly. Stick it on the fridge, or on the wall near to where you write. You'll still need your 'to do list' for the week ahead but having your achievement list nearby will remind you that you're a writer and you can do it! </li>
</ul>
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<ul>
<li><b>Shift Your Perspective - </b>If you're disappointed because you haven't done any writing this week, then you need to shift your perspective. It's a state of mind that can be shifted. Being disappointed or doubting yourself is a sign that you really care about something in the first place, and that's a positive thing. Start telling yourself about the brilliant things you've already done this week. It might not be three thousand new words on your novel, but you may have listened to a helpful podcast on outlining or helped a writing buddy out with their writing, or ran a writing group session. Sometimes, we have to make allowances, but there is usually something writing related that we have done. </li>
</ul>
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Break through those blocks that are making you feel inadequate, turn 'can't into 'can' and celebrate your successes, no matter how small. </div>
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-66348050439926612652018-07-29T10:57:00.001+00:002018-07-31T07:06:49.634+00:00And Relax...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9EDbpAzH0ec/W12bEjeCelI/AAAAAAAAMCE/Lu3xxx8LELst6c_K_kuKrr64AKv4OgnUwCLcBGAs/s1600/camera-1839998_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9EDbpAzH0ec/W12bEjeCelI/AAAAAAAAMCE/Lu3xxx8LELst6c_K_kuKrr64AKv4OgnUwCLcBGAs/s640/camera-1839998_1280.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pixabay Image </td></tr>
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I got to thinking, what do writerly folk do to chill out?<br />
If it's your full-time thing - What do you do in your spare time? What makes your heart sing?<br />
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Perhaps you write in your spare time, and it may be all you do at any available opportunity, or perhaps there are other things you do too? I'm curious, personally writing keeps me sane in an insane world. I can't imagine me not doing it, but I've got a full-time job, so I do write in my spare time. Some would call it my hobby, but I don't like that word applied to my writing.<br />
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When I'm not writing, I'm reading or listening to audio books and watching movies on the big screen. I like to switch off and lose myself in the story, and try hard not to dissect how it's structured. Often I manage it but it's hard not to pick things apart.<br />
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I enjoy walking for health, and listening to music at the same time which makes me happy. I love getting away in my caravan to explore the beautiful English countryside, and I especially love a city break where I soak up the culture, check out art galleries, exhibitions and museums. My camera's never far away. Photography, like writing has mostly always featured in my life.<br />
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I've definitely got too many things going on that I love to do! And I haven't mentioned cooking yet, I usually cook at least a couple of new recipes every week.<br />
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Then I've a shortish list of things I'd like to do in the future. Crazy I know. I'm one of these annoyingly ever curious types. On my 'future things to do' list I have knitting, joining a proper walking group, growing things in pots, joining a book club and taking some sort of relaxation class. I'm quite mad! Oh, but that's another writerly thing altogether isn't it?<br />
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Do tell me how you relax - lets see if there are any similarities between writers, I suspect there will be a lot of common interests because we're all creatives darling.<br />
Do tell what's on your future list?<br />
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<br />Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-2978732055403633322018-07-15T09:30:00.000+00:002018-07-17T13:59:02.622+00:00Planning Your Time - How Hard Can it Be? <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wuqqYYkm27Q/W005_HQYTPI/AAAAAAAAL8M/sue9qNNvVVcZAdoAFtLH9GIJOpWGOfpFgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_3043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wuqqYYkm27Q/W005_HQYTPI/AAAAAAAAL8M/sue9qNNvVVcZAdoAFtLH9GIJOpWGOfpFgCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_3043.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Blue Skies Over Tenby - Maria A Smith </i></td></tr>
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Planning your time is often much harder than you ever dreamt or expected it to be, and if you don't get it right it can make you feel frustrated. Here are some tips to help you get started and make the most of your available time.<br />
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<b># Know Your Goals </b>- Decide what you want to do and make sure it's relevant. Each day identify two or three tasks that support both your short and long term goals and write them down somewhere. As you complete each task, strike it through with a coloured marker pen<br />
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<b># Separate the irrelevant stuff from what's important </b>- Easier said than done and you'll need to learn to say 'no' to those around you - getting your priorities right will help you to move forward in the long term.<br />
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<b># Plan </b>- Plan as much as you can, using online tools and calendars, or pen and paper and an old fashioned diary or 'To Do' list. Whichever way suits you better, do it!<br />
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<b># Delegate more often </b>- This can be anything from teaching the children to tidy their toys away to getting your partner to cook a meal. Or simply declaring a 'Kitchen Closed' night. Any extra time you can grab is a bonus.<br />
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<b># Sleep </b>- Don't underestimate the power of sleep. Most people need 7-8 hours a night to function. It's important to get enough sleep.<br />
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<b># Make it habitual </b>- Turn your writing into a habit. If you can't write at the same time each day or each week, try saying to yourself that you'll complete a chapter a week, or a page a day. Get your mind into a habit of doing the same thing regularly.<br />
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<b># Cut it! </b> - Cut down on the time you're spending on social media or watching TV because both are time sucks, only you don't realise it until it's too late.<br />
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<b># Allow yourself downtime </b>- This is very important, our brains need to rest and recover. Make sure you take regular breaks to go off and do nothing, or go for a walk or a swim, or something else that feeds your creativity.<br />
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<b># Waiting Time </b>- Don't get frustrated when you have to sit and wait at the dentist or the solicitors, instead whip out a pen and note book and get to work, even if it's only next weeks 'to do' list. Alternatively, read a book.<br />
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The above is by no means a comprehensive list, it's a start to help you work smarter, not harder.<br />
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Let me know what I can add to the above list - I'd love to know what works for you?Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-48614817909914438412018-07-01T07:00:00.000+00:002018-07-03T22:51:28.818+00:00Your New Fresh Start<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TNaDvHI6otY/Wzq3axtutmI/AAAAAAAAL6E/Ya-J3w1KK9wYoSiUZXBZEyfe_-ZnmbRxwCLcBGAs/s1600/Changing%2BPlans%2B%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1329" data-original-width="1600" height="530" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TNaDvHI6otY/Wzq3axtutmI/AAAAAAAAL6E/Ya-J3w1KK9wYoSiUZXBZEyfe_-ZnmbRxwCLcBGAs/s640/Changing%2BPlans%2B%25282%2529.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Let's Make a Plan </i></td></tr>
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Hello and welcome to the First Draft Cafe. I haven't said that for a while, but it feels good to reconnect. So this post is meant to get you thinking about what you've been up to in the last six months, yes, I know, non of us can believe we're half way through 2018, but the truth is, we are, so let's take stock.<br />
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How's that list coming along? You know, the one you made on January 1st? Along with lots of other good intentions. Are you still on track? Or has your focus shifted? Or have things gone totally out of focus?<br />
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Let's begin with plans that have changed. I imagine there are quite a few people who have altered their writing plans. Six months is a long time, and much can happen.<br />
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It might be that you don't want to write a novel anymore, perhaps you've discovered you want to write poetry instead, or your personal commitments have altered, or you've decided to go backpacking and can't fit your laptop in your rucksack. Whatever's happened, have you been able to push the re-set button and replan your writing life?<br />
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Or have things gone completely out of focus for you as a writer? It can easily happen. Or are you a little lost and just need to take some time out to re-focus on what matters to you now?<br />
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Whichever camp you fall into - have a look back at what you've achieved already in 2018. If it's a lot and you're on-track that's great! If not, all is not lost, we have six months to create. And to have something to show for our efforts at the end of December. So come on, make a start, take time out during this week to start making your new revamped plans. The sooner you do it, the sooner you can knuckle down and decide how your going to get there.<br />
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Find somewhere quiet where you can make yourself comfortable, and have a look back at those January notes. Ask yourself, 'Are they still relevant?' If they aren't then spend time thinking about what it is you really want to do. It's a tough question and one you might not have answers for right now, but you'll get a feel for something that may have possibilities, or maybe you'll decide there is something you don't want to do anymore.<br />
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Remember, you're the boss of you.<br />
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If you want to get things moving you will. Make a plan, and let this be your new fresh start. Like I said right at the beginning of this post, it's good to reconnect.<br />
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More about making plans in my next post. Have a great week folks and do share your thoughts with me in the comments, I look forward to hearing from you soon. .<br />
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<br />Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-23088526424374368042018-05-28T13:25:00.000+00:002018-05-28T18:00:53.279+00:00Making Things Happen<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kD_rDqZNu8U/Wwv8LHeeGaI/AAAAAAAALb4/cQOzy07vd2kPFIvAkwnIbl2s7-BxlyTzACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_1884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1104" data-original-width="1600" height="440" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kD_rDqZNu8U/Wwv8LHeeGaI/AAAAAAAALb4/cQOzy07vd2kPFIvAkwnIbl2s7-BxlyTzACKgBGAs/s640/IMG_1884.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Bluebells in the grounds of Chatsworth, Derbyshire - Maria A Smith</i></td></tr>
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Nearly two months ago I made this list of goals - See how I've got on.<br />
<ul>
<li>Continue to re-write my novel in first person - I've done some. </li>
<li>Enter two competitions - Not yet.</li>
<li>Join in with #Writingchat (Twitter - Wednesdays 8pm-9pm UK time) when I can - I have done. </li>
<li>Have a writerly day out - Fabulous adventure to Soundhouse Studios in London and an Urban Writing Retreat in Nottingham, as well as a night out in Leicester. </li>
<li>Start going for walks again - I've started! I've stopped! And I've restarted. </li>
<li>Get out and about with my camera - Sort of...yes, I've been snapping away. </li>
<li>Change my look - Oh yes, I'm looking different, and I have plans. </li>
</ul>
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I've managed to pack a lot into the last few months, and I've made a good start on other stuff too.</div>
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Getting back into a regular routine on my novel has been more difficult than I imagined it would be. I've had some really early starts for work, which interferes with my daily words, I like to get them done as soon as I get up, otherwise I lose track of time due to other commitments during the day, and I'm too tired by early evening. It's tricky if you hit the road before 6am, so I've ended up writing at all sorts of different times of the day or night, which is messy and not ideal.</div>
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Competitions - Nothing entered yet, I've read Writing Magazine and looked around on the blogosphere for details of what's running. I've made a list of where I can send things already written, and there are one or two competitions where I'm tempted to write something fresh although this will be another sap on my time, so I really need to put the brakes on that idea!<br />
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I've missed a few #writingchat sessions on Wednesday evenings again work commitments have made it difficult, and I've had to switch other obligations around.<br />
<br />
I've had two writerly days out though - I've been to London to Sound House Studios to see my friend's radio play recorded, which was interesting, and insightful. I now know how much work goes on behind the scenes. The actors and sound engineer did a fabulous job. Afterwards, a few of us went on to sample London on a Friday evening, which involved drinks and a fantastic meal out followed by an interesting train journey home, where I set about writing some six word stories in preparation for my writing group the next day.<br />
<br />
I've learnt that the late train from St Pancras to Leicester is known as the 'party' train, and it was like something out of a comedy script! Or perhaps everything appears funnier after a few gin and tonics. Seriously, it was so good to have a laugh and engage with people.<br />
<br />
The other writerly jaunt was an Urban Writing Retreat at the Nottingham Writers Studio, again very different, I went along on a Sunday and from 10am until 4pm I dug in and worked on a script I'm jointly doing with another writer. There were sixteen of us and there was professional help on hand for anyone stuck with any aspect of their writing. We had a couple of word sprints throughout the day, and generally got a lot of writing done. It was fun!<br />
<br />
I've been taking pictures, as you can see in this post. I'm getting used to my new camera, and I'm also using my phone too. It's surprising how creative you can be with your mobile.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3rUfa1FuFAg/WwwBH0_CrtI/AAAAAAAALhk/5dqkReIMv_wiU1JDKw1NZ1SVVL0w_0_5QCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_1836.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1131" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3rUfa1FuFAg/WwwBH0_CrtI/AAAAAAAALhk/5dqkReIMv_wiU1JDKw1NZ1SVVL0w_0_5QCKgBGAs/s320/IMG_1836.JPG" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Taking a Break - Maria A Smith</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I had a sort of a writerly night out too. By chance I'd heard on the radio about a play being performed in Leicester called Chip Shop Chips, it's currently touring the UK, and quite unique. We went into the theatre, and it had been set up like a chip shop restaurant, and once we were all seated, we were all given fish and chips! Delicious they were too. Fabulous way to get people chatting to each other.<br />
<br />
The background music was great, all sixties stuff, and the acting was done in amongst the audience which added to the atmosphere. The storyline was a nostalgic trip back in time, as well as being bang up to date too, it followed the stories of two couples. One from each era.<br />
<br />
There was a quiz, and a crazy hat making competition, not to mention a sharing of our memories of chips shops and the stories that surround them. Definitely, an audience participation event. It was completely sold out, and they were turning people away on the door! A real 'take you away from it all' evening. And of course I now have lots of ideas if I ever want to put on a production.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
New hairstyle and colour all done too. I decided a change was in order, I've gone from long blonde to short red! Although it has faded a little now. Why? It's time to re-invent myself. New beginnings and all that...Us girls all know that having our hair done makes us feel good, as does a new outfit, but I didn't get one of those. Although that is on my list.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kkFn2qj5ovk/Wwv5Jx4ggPI/AAAAAAAALbE/JwPFspi7m68O34zFcn9n70dkYPJwKCq7QCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_710.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1170" data-original-width="877" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kkFn2qj5ovk/Wwv5Jx4ggPI/AAAAAAAALbE/JwPFspi7m68O34zFcn9n70dkYPJwKCq7QCLcBGAs/s320/fullsizeoutput_710.jpeg" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>New Me! - Maria A Smith</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I'm refusing to let my ongoing back issue get me down. Instead I'm sticking two fingers up at it and saying, 'Yea, so you've been hanging around since October, but I'm carrying on with my life!' And that's why I decided to have a change really.<br />
<br />
Some days are better than others, as anyone who's experienced pain will know. I'm awaiting my MRI scan results, so soon enough I'll know what the issue is, although I suspect it's a flare up of my 2014/2015 issue, the prolapsed disks. Back pain has a huge impact on doing daily tasks, and makes going to work everyday quite difficult. It's hard to find any mirth in it when you can't put your own socks on! Thank goodness the weather is warming up. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i3BQwJW1QBw/Wwv6PTY9ZoI/AAAAAAAALbY/_bQLv4Vzkdw8VLWhWjlceKGNTHDbmTQMwCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_7e4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1472" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i3BQwJW1QBw/Wwv6PTY9ZoI/AAAAAAAALbY/_bQLv4Vzkdw8VLWhWjlceKGNTHDbmTQMwCLcBGAs/s320/fullsizeoutput_7e4.jpeg" width="292" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Healthy Breakfast! - Maria A Smith </i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Getting out for a walk has been problematic - the weather was wet around these parts for the whole of April, but I got out and embraced the challenge. I have to grit my teeth through the pain, but it's worth it, along with my other regular pool wading exercise, I feel I'm trying, and the pain has lessoned. I did need a new rain mac though as mine is worn out and has disintegrated at the seams!<br />
<br />
May has been for the most fabulous, so like many I've made the most of it and been here, there and everywhere.<br />
<br />
I'm battling on with healthy eating and trying to lose weight. Yes, I know, it's easy isn't it? - Just put less in your mouth! And exercise more.<br />
<br />
Well not so easy for me, I struggle on my own so I've rejoined Slimming World. Some folks will scowl and talk down the worth of slimming groups, saying 'what do you need a group for? It's a waste of money!' And in fact that happened to me very recently recently whilst in the company of a 'friend', but for me, I need the support of a group.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Kq5p5Juo4k/Wwv5nHrSwyI/AAAAAAAALbM/PL0SN-RG0-gm7CHHPP_g7e_gHcP8FgLSACLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_7fe.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Kq5p5Juo4k/Wwv5nHrSwyI/AAAAAAAALbM/PL0SN-RG0-gm7CHHPP_g7e_gHcP8FgLSACLcBGAs/s320/fullsizeoutput_7fe.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Lunch on the go! - Maria A Smith</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Being honest, it isn't easy, but then is anything worth having easy? I have a substantial amount of weight to shift, it's crept on slowly since 1997 when I was last at a healthy weight for my height.<br />
I'm doing it for the sake of my health, and I'm hoping it will help with my back issues. I'm doing it for me, and I'm hoping to have lost a stone by the end of July.<br />
<br />
Okay, I'm waffling now, it really isn't that interesting to you good folks out there, and this has turned into a very long post I probably should of split in two.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
What have I learnt from the last few months?<br />
<br />
# Sometimes, you have to push yourself through physical pain - Life is an hourglass, the sands of time are slipping away. This day, this here and now, isn't coming round again, and you can't get days back. Get out there and make the most of them.<br />
<br />
# Sometimes, I have to step back from my writing, to be there for my family, take care of my mum, see friends and attend to 'real' peoples's needs. Sure, I want to write and I'm crawling at a snail's pace but maybe that's how it's supposed to be for me right now.<br />
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# Spontaneous decisions can be fun, going to the Chip Shop Chips play suspended my belief for a few hours and took me to another place. As did a random day out in the Cotswolds.<br />
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# Be Kind. Be Kind. Be Kind. And that includes being kind to yourself too.<br />
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Lastly, I must mention my visit to Liverpool in April - A friend and I went to see the Terracotta Warriors, it's well worth a visit, it's a really interesting exhibition I'd recommend if you love history. The sun shone brightly in the afternoon which allowed us to have a leisurely walk down to the Albert Docks area too. I hadn't been before, and again it's worthwhile if you are in the area.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6cG_sw6FV7c/Wwv-QtF4Q_I/AAAAAAAALec/CtxFaXOl_g8PdVT_5SbR5ij2ewhP0vFXACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_1783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6cG_sw6FV7c/Wwv-QtF4Q_I/AAAAAAAALec/CtxFaXOl_g8PdVT_5SbR5ij2ewhP0vFXACKgBGAs/s320/IMG_1783.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Solid Gold Horse - Maria A Smith</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qE1Ri7E51nE/Wwv-pw5B4CI/AAAAAAAALfI/Ej9b_qTeqb0Wd9d9b7U_TXtqdTn05a4hACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_1799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1323" data-original-width="1600" height="264" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qE1Ri7E51nE/Wwv-pw5B4CI/AAAAAAAALfI/Ej9b_qTeqb0Wd9d9b7U_TXtqdTn05a4hACKgBGAs/s320/IMG_1799.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The Terracotta Warriors in Liverpool April 2018 - Maria A Smith </i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iI5N7YCh0_k/Wwv7OBJP85I/AAAAAAAALb0/s5IacHg13IsrFxVnyrm6wLDgd-7EXtlBwCEwYBhgL/s1600/fullsizeoutput_790.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1225" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iI5N7YCh0_k/Wwv7OBJP85I/AAAAAAAALb0/s5IacHg13IsrFxVnyrm6wLDgd-7EXtlBwCEwYBhgL/s320/fullsizeoutput_790.jpeg" width="243" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Warrior - Maria A Smith</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Here's my TO DO list for the next two months - by writing it down, there's half a chance it'll get done!<br />
<ul>
<li>Make the most of getting outside</li>
<li>Enjoy downtime - own it! </li>
<li>Have fun!</li>
<li>Have a writerly day out, or two, or three.</li>
<li>Continue with the novel</li>
<li>Have fun!</li>
<li>Lose some more weight</li>
<li>Get a new outfit</li>
<li>Have fun!</li>
<li>Eat healthier and drink more water</li>
<li>Have fun! </li>
</ul>
Yea, that is it folks, so what have you all been doing? And please DO share your goals for the month ahead.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-92189129192879694032018-03-31T23:30:00.000+00:002018-04-08T18:59:52.978+00:00Around Here We Don't Look Backwards For Very Long - We Keep Moving Forwards<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Irxrq99KHF4/Wr_xvdGRkOI/AAAAAAAAJ6Q/g006rN9VpUwp20l1ZMa0ZqaLBLOZ1TKNgCLcBGAs/s1600/Make%2BThings%2BHappen%2BFirst%2BDraft%2BCafe%2B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="754" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Irxrq99KHF4/Wr_xvdGRkOI/AAAAAAAAJ6Q/g006rN9VpUwp20l1ZMa0ZqaLBLOZ1TKNgCLcBGAs/s640/Make%2BThings%2BHappen%2BFirst%2BDraft%2BCafe%2B.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Make Things Happen </i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Poof! The first quarter of 2018 has vanished and I don't feel like I've achieved much. This is the bit where I let out a HUGE sigh and say, 'I tried. I really did.' Feel frustrated and fed up and well you know, if you've ever experienced similar feelings, I don't need to tell you. You just want to put it all behind you.<br />
<br />
I can list lots of reasons why January, February and March have been awful months for me, and not just on the writing front. But there's little point, instead it's time to move on, make a new plan and start moving forward.<br />
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What do I want to achieve in April? Well, I'd like to see some sunshine, and feel it's warmth on my skin for one, and here's a short list of writerly things I'd like to do over the next month.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Continue to re-write my novel in first person</li>
<li>Enter two competitions</li>
<li>Join in with #Writingchat (Twitter - Wednesdays 8pm-9pm UK time) when I can </li>
<li>Have a writerly day out</li>
</ul>
There's some other stuff I'm itching to do too, which has nothing to do with writing.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Start going for walks again </li>
<li>Get out and about with my camera</li>
<li>Change my look</li>
</ul>
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Now I'm off to write out a plan for the week ahead, and I'm keeping it simple. </div>
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Do let me know how the first quarter of 2018 went for you, and what your plans are for the month of April? </div>
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-84449995498971480262018-03-18T00:16:00.000+00:002018-03-19T18:59:40.468+00:00Yes, I'm Rolling My Eyes! <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XQ44SwinEqg/Wq2pIeUwnQI/AAAAAAAAJsU/ZRopddYxElUqilPy0qlpuv8XChsBNsbVgCLcBGAs/s1600/Snow%2521%2BNot%2BAgain%2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XQ44SwinEqg/Wq2pIeUwnQI/AAAAAAAAJsU/ZRopddYxElUqilPy0qlpuv8XChsBNsbVgCLcBGAs/s640/Snow%2521%2BNot%2BAgain%2521.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">March 17th 2018 </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
More snow - Really? I'm sick of this wintery weather. I really am. I dream of sunshine and primroses daffodils, tulips and blossom on the trees. Of warmer, happier days. I yearn for tea and cake on the lawn.<br />
<br />
So far this year so many of my friends and family have been struck down by one nasty virus or other, myself included and its knocked us off our feet. Usually, it's not an issue, we might go down, but this year it's been so hard to come up on the side of good health - the germs are lingering and are being passed back and forward in communities everywhere.<br />
<br />
I could be positive and look at it another way, snowy weekends mean I can stay home and get things done around the house. Ugh! I don't like that idea at all! Housework makes me feel ill.<br />
<br />
Or I could get some writing done. Spend a few hours on my novel, or polish a story for a competition. I could make a detailed writing plan for the next month or two, or I could snuggle down on the sofa and read a good book. That sounds like a great plan.<br />
<br />
It's never that easy though is it? I need to go out, to look in on my mum, and my neighbour and to buy vegetables for dinner. If it runs over into Monday, I need to go to work, and lets face it, we can't deal with snow can we? Seriously, it's a joke, other countries must have a right laugh at us messing about on the roads.<br />
<br />
Ah, the good old English weather eh, it ruins the best laid plans. Seriously, I'm hoping it disappears as quickly as it arrived. Fingers crossed.<br />
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Of course you may love it! Let me know your thoughts, and what you're up to?Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-21473382159169871072018-02-18T10:08:00.003+00:002018-02-20T23:41:46.369+00:00Finding the Write Time <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o_Mqha4YDzI/WolP6gCDd3I/AAAAAAAAJew/A0Nz0s-F0XEsNOGysw_uBiEWS9gxh5NxgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_0363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o_Mqha4YDzI/WolP6gCDd3I/AAAAAAAAJew/A0Nz0s-F0XEsNOGysw_uBiEWS9gxh5NxgCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_0363.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Lazy Sunday Afternoon - Maria A Smith </i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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We're more than half way through February, I don't know why I'm always so amazed at how fast time speeds along, but I am! Always. Not that I want to be wishing my life away but...I chose the above picture, which was taken in August last year, because it reminds me of long summer days, which I'm very much aiming my compass towards.<br />
<br />
Anyway, a quick update.<br />
<br />
Hubby is making good progress after his accident with the circular saw, he has good movement in his fingers now that the stitches are out, although the thumb is currently an issue, and only time will tell if he's going to get full use back again. He's killing time at home, and I think he's probably now seen enough House Under the Hammer, and Down Under to last him a lifetime.<br />
<br />
We're still in the wars here though. I broke another tooth last week, so that was another costly dental bill and its left me wondering why it's happening, it definitely can't be put down to teeth clenching this time as I was eating a bread roll at the time.<br />
<br />
The other issue I have is my back. It's been horrid since last October, and has got steadily worse as we moved into 2018. I'm waiting for an MRI scan, as the consultant believes the disk is pinching a nerve again. I'm currently managing without pain relief, as I was really ill on the tablets. I just read that sentence back and wanted to laugh! Anyone who has suffered with lower back pain knows you don't manage back pain, you bloody well grit your teeth and push your way through life, albeit at a much slower pace. Hopefully, I can manage without tearing my hair out.<br />
<br />
Now about my writing.<br />
<br />
<br />
Over the last month I've fell back into time wasting habits - it was easy if I'm honest with everything that's been going on around me. However, I need to change things around so I can start working productively again. I'm not beating myself up, far from it, I'm figuring out what I can do differently to get better results. It's back to basics to recognise and understand why I'm not making best use of my time anymore. Perhaps I'm doing the same thing over and over and it's just not working, and I haven't realised it. If that's the case I'll keep getting the same outcome unless I change something.<br />
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<br /></div>
<div>
By writing things down for a week, or two, a time audit will show you where you stand now. It needn't be anything fancy, but if you write down where your time is going, you'll get an idea of where the time sucks are, and where the missed opportunities might be found. I've done it before, with surprising results. Afterwards, you can make a new plan.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'll be keeping things simple by using a paper diary and filling out slots of time, which will probably be in increments of an hour. I'll write down beforehand what I want to achieve, and then I'll set the timer on my phone and get stuck in. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's important to realise we all have other stuff going on in life, be it family time, work or going out with friends, or perhaps learning to play an instrument or going on long walks. Whatever floats your boat, everyone needs downtime, so don't forget to factor some 'me' time in if you decide to try this exercise yourself.<br />
<br />
I'll let you know how it goes in my next post.<br />
<br />
What have you been up to? Is life treating you well? Is your writing flowing? Or could you do with a bit of a time audit too? </div>
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-76939528612285944502018-01-29T01:33:00.004+00:002018-01-29T18:43:44.185+00:00Be Your Own Cheer Leader<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2isbbYza_4g/Wm53Ah0kDTI/AAAAAAAAJc8/I2IkAgX89qMKLzy4racQnAEpE7S4GPVyACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1494.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1454" data-original-width="1600" height="580" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2isbbYza_4g/Wm53Ah0kDTI/AAAAAAAAJc8/I2IkAgX89qMKLzy4racQnAEpE7S4GPVyACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_1494.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Rainbows - Maria A Smith </i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'm having a wobble. January hasn't gone to plan. My mum's unwell, she's got problems with her sight, and hasn't recovered well from this nasty virus that's been doing the rounds. Hubby had an accident at work last week involving a circular saw! I know, everyone winces at the thought of it. Thankfully, he hasn't lost any fingers, and has limited nerve damage. He's been very lucky, and we're so grateful things weren't a lot worse. He's getting used to being at home, and he's coping well with the pain as I write this post.<br />
<br />
The week before my daughter was fretting over an essay she needed to hand in, it's her final year at University and she'd worked so hard on it. We had a scary half hour when she thought she'd accidentally deleted it! I managed to find it on her laptop and all was well again. It was a relief when she handed it in I can tell you as the stress was coming off her in waves. And work, well let's just say the day job's been a tad challenging of late, due to a new system that's been introduced.<br />
<br />
My dentist thinks I'm clenching my jaw AGAIN as I broke another tooth last week too, which involved a costly repair. It might be work related, or life in general that's making me clench my jaw, who knows? I'm trying hard to be aware of it when life is challenging.<br />
<br />
Is it just me that's having a 'challenging' month? No, of course not, this is normal, this is the rollercoaster of LIFE, and all of us from time to time have unexpected ups and downs, and obstacles thrown into our path.<br />
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What's happened in the last two weeks, has reinforced what I'd come round to thinking a long time ago - there's nothing as important as your health, it really is your wealth, and without it, you won't have as good a quality of life as someone who is well. Money is secondary, yes, of course it helps, you need it to put a roof over your head, pay bills and eat, but good health comes above all of that.<br />
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I'm taking everything in my stride. I'm NOT getting upset and wound up when things happen because it's better to keep a calm head and deal with it. When my weekly writing plan, doesn't go to plan, of course I'm dismayed, and I wonder how I'm going to catch up, so I say to myself, <b>'I'm doing my best and that's okay.' </b>I make it my mantra. <b>'I'm doing my best and that's okay' </b>The key is to do whatever you can, and not feel like you've failed.<br />
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When it gets to Friday and the only exercise I've done is fifteen minutes of walking up and down the pool, and all those promised thirty minute walks never materialised, it's disheartening. Of course it is, like when I've done really well on the scales and lost more than a few pounds, but then when disater strikes in another area of life I falter, and fall off my plan, and raid the biscuit tin! What do I say to myself? <b>'What can I learn from this?' </b>Okay so I'm a slow slow learner on that one, but I'll keep reinforcing the message. <b>'What can I learn from this?'</b><br />
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January's progress wasn't the plan I had in mind. However, it's not the end of my best laid plans, it just means I need to regroup, take some deep breaths and get back out there again.<b> 'I can do this!'</b> And that is another of my cheer-leading mantras. <b>'I can do this.'</b> Of course I can, even if it's going to take me a little longer, or if I have a tight deadline, I'll find another way.<br />
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The way you think about yourself could be the key to success, and the first steps towards change are accepting yourself for the way you are. At last I think I'm doing that, and I'm learning to work with what I've got, as lets face it, we all do things differently. As long as we get over the finish line, does it matter how we did it?<br />
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In the midst of all the chaos good things happened too, but I had to look out for them. I mean really look out for them, because often we overlook the good stuff by not paying attention. Don't believe me? Okay, this week, look for the good things that happen in your day. Try and find two things every day, and write them down before you go to bed. At the end of the week you'll have a list of stuff, you'd ordinarily not think about too much. Hey, they were good things, so celebrate them. Here's my list.<br />
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I saw a double rainbow, just after a heavy shower. Isn't nature amazing? I watched the movie Darkest Hour, and thought how lucky are we to live in a country without war. I spent time with friends and enjoyed a meal in their company. I heard the joy in my daughter's voice when she told me her tutor had said she'd done good on her essay. I held my first Subs Club ( for writers who want to submit their work) meeting of 2018, I've wrote flash fiction, an article and done some edits on my novel and I saw a robin on my way to work.<br />
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So yes, I had a wobble, and I dare say they'll be more as 2018 unfolds, but I'm getting back on track, and I'm looking forward, not back.<br />
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How's life treating you?Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-42753951924273125672018-01-14T21:30:00.000+00:002018-01-15T23:37:08.143+00:00Be Kind to Yourself <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Can you believe the first two weeks of January are already behind us?<br />
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In my post two weeks ago, I said I'd share my goals outside of writing with you, so here goes. It's all about self-care, because there's more to life than ticking through a to-do list, and centering around others, and constantly firefighting your way through each and every day.<br />
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<b>Saying 'Yes' when you mean 'No'</b><br />
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I thought I'd got pretty good at saying no to people but towards the end of last year, I found myself slipping back into old habits. Agreeing to do things for people and instantly regretting it. Then spending a few days or weeks wishing I could get out of it, when saying no in the first place doesn't mean I'm being rude, selfish or unkind, it means I'm valuing me, and my time, and it's time to stand firm and not be apologetic.<br />
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Here's my list of things I've set my sights on this year.<br />
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# Walking - I used to walk lots, but for different reasons, I've lapsed over the last few years, so it's definitely back on the agenda this year. I've started already, earlier I went for a very muddy walk in the countryside.<br />
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# Relaxation - I'd like more time to myself, quality time I can use to read, listen to music, take a stretch class, or simply get more sleep!<br />
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# Photography - I've missed going out and about with my camera, something I'm going to rectify very soon.<br />
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# Out and About - I'd like to explore new places, although I'm not sure where I want to go yet.<br />
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What would you like to do this year? Something new or more of the same?<br />
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<br />Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-53481379943866540682018-01-01T12:11:00.003+00:002018-01-01T20:12:18.312+00:00Hello 2018 - Come In And Shut The Door<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello friends, I wish you all a very Happy and Healthy New Year.<br />
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There's something exciting about welcoming in the new year don't you think? A chance to start over with new hopes and dreams, and a fresh start.<br />
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I love setting goals - Don't you?<br />
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This year my goals are sort of similar to last year, but also very different. Let me explain.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">The Novel</span></b><br />
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Early last year I discovered what I'd suspected for a while, but had struggled to admit. I was drowning and needed major help, my novel wasn't working, BUT, I wouldn't give up on it! I couldn't, even though it was making me miserable. I'd get up early every weekday morning, and rewrite chapter after chapter, before I went to work, knowing full well it wasn't right.<br />
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I needed help, but honestly didn't know what sort of help I needed. I'd tried the usual things writers do when they know something isn't right. I'd taken it to my writing group, re-wrote it here and there, changed this and that, but nothing helped. In fact things got worse.<br />
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I'd looked at personal mentoring years ago and dismissed it, but now I was desperate to get back to feeling good about my writing again. I wanted to finish the darn novel! And anyway, I'd tried personal fitness training in 2016 to help me get fit after a back injury, and that had worked wonders, so maybe a professional writing mentor's take on matters was what I needed. I signed up for <a href="http://www.scrivenervirgin.com/redpen/redpen-mentoring/" target="_blank">RedPen Mentoring </a> and after a lengthy talk with my mentor, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-rainbow-69b3945/" target="_blank">Anne Rainbow</a>, I realised I needed her help and I needed time to think.<br />
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What happened next? I took my mentor's advice and put the novel aside, although I gasped when she first suggested it, I'll be honest, it felt like I'd been punched in the gut! What was she thinking? I'd come to her for help to get it finished, and she was telling me to put it aside. I needed to sit down in a darkened room with a gin and tonic. Twenty four hours later I did it. Just like that - I was paying for my mentor's advice. I needed to take it.<br />
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I made a new plan under Anne's guidance. I did this and that, and you could say I went on a journey of sorts. I did not look at, or work on my novel for almost six months. Instead I did lots of other writerly stuff including The Artists Way challenge - a 12 week course on discovering and recovering your creative self. I can recommend it, and you can read all about it <a href="http://firstdraftcafe.blogspot.co.uk/2017/08/artists-dates.html?q=artists+way" target="_blank">here</a> and you can buy the book <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Artists-Way-Discovering-Recovering-Creative/dp/1509829474/ref=dp_ob_title_bk" target="_blank">here</a> and no I'm not on commission. It was a healing experience. If you're starting 2018 a little lost, take a look. It's not just for writers either.<br />
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Slowly, things began to happen. I started to think about my novel again, but this time, it was in the background, slowly coming forward to the front of my mind. I started to think about structure, and about the story, and the characters. And I started asking myself lots of questions. I told Anne I was ready to re-write my story.<br />
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Looking back now, I'd known for a long time third person wasn't working. A voice in my head kept telling me, 'try it in first person', but the thought of a rewrite made me feel positively ill. I wasn't ready for a BIG scary journey like that! Not then. But I am now.<br />
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I explored the idea by writing a chapter to get a feel for it, back in November, and when I read it afterwards, I knew it was what I had to do this year. Yes, it's a mammoth task, as you can imagine, lots will have to change. There will be implications throughout the story. It's got to be done though, so that's my aim and I've set myself a target - I want it rewritten by June 30th 2018 so that I can move onto the next stage and get it out into the world by the end of November.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Non Fiction Project </span></b><br />
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It's good to collaborate, I'm doing it this year. Last year I wanted to try my hand at articles, it didn't happen exactly as I planned. Instead it morphed into something else, and in the last quarter of 2017, a casual throw away conversation with fellow writing buddy <a href="http://www.waynekellywrites.com/" target="_blank">Wayne Kelly</a> ending with, 'we should write a book about that' has led us to collaborate together. Details soon to be revealed. We'd like to publish in September this year.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Writers Workshop</span></b><br />
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Sometimes it's good to stick your neck out and do something different, and that's exactly what happened in November last year when another writing buddy - <a href="http://www.writingeastmidlands.co.uk/writers-directory/keith-large/" target="_blank">Keith Large </a> and I facilitated our first Script Aloud Workshop. We both enjoyed it, as did the participants and it's something I definitely want to do again this year. It's early days but it would feel good to have another two workshops under my belt before the end of the year.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Blogging </span></b><br />
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Ah yes, it's a fact I've badly neglected this blog. You can see why now though can't you? It'll be rectified this year, and I may change the frequency of when I blog too, I might go to a fortnightly blog, but hey every two weeks is better than not to blog for weeks or months isn't it?<br />
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I enjoy blogging and interacting with you guys, and maybe I got side tracked or perhaps I got lazy, or confused in what I thought was the right content. Things are going to change, I'll be experimenting, and I'm not afraid to change things back if they don't work, or try something else instead. There's no shame in trying, and if it works out it'll make the blog more interesting and if it doesn't then a mistake is only a mistake if you don't learn from it, isn't it?<br />
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Okay, so this has been a long post about my writing goals and my plans for the year ahead. And although I love to write, I've made other plans outside of writing too, which I'll share with you next time.<br />
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Please do share your writing goals with me in the comments, or any other goals you've set yourself this year.<br />
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<br />Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-28080697259457820162017-12-31T23:50:00.003+00:002017-12-31T23:52:27.150+00:00Time Out The last few days of 2017 have been restful and I've had time to reflect on all that has happened over the last year. It's been a roller coaster ride and I'm now looking forward to 2018 with much enthusiasm. I've spent time doing a life audit, taking stock of what I've done and what I want to achieve going forward, and I'll be sharing it with you tomorrow.<br />
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Thank you for sticking with me in 2017 and I'll see you on the other side.<br />
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-11200679177097441892017-11-27T08:30:00.000+00:002017-11-29T23:39:23.407+00:00Things Keep Happening! But I'm Getting There...<div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Checking the Time </td></tr>
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Honestly, I feel like I'm stuck in a cycle of stop-start, stop-start with the blog this year. Anyone else feeling that way? It certainly wasn't my intention, I set out to post every week, but it hasn't worked out that way. Lots or stuff has got in the way, therefore, I need to think seriously about how I'm going to do things going forward.<br />
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Time seems to be getting away from me, and I have lots of writing plans I want to develop, not least my novel, and a new non fiction project with my writing buddy, <a href="http://www.waynekellywrites.com/blog/writing-is-rewriting/" target="_blank">Wayne Kelly</a> which I'll share with you soon. </div>
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Can you believe this is the last week of November? As I get older, it seems I have less available time, BUT, how can that be? Or is it that I'm packing far too much into the time I have available? And my expectations are far too high? Mmm, probably, and something to mull over this week. And another thing I've been thinking about is moving the blog. Yes, I'm seriously considering defecting to Wordpress, and I'd appreciate any comments on the subject, good or bad. Perhaps you've done it? If so please share your experience, good or bad. Or if you're a Wordpress blogger please share any incites. </div>
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Anyway, this week I'm busy working on my novel, and writing a non fiction piece, creating some flash fiction, and sorting out a schedule for December with some definite goals. </div>
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The writing is flowing. The re-write in first person is going really well, and I've found my voice. It's taken me all month to get back in the routine of early mornings, but it's working. It's also good to know the writing is 'done' and means I won't beat myself up. I'm hoping I can keep it going now.<br />
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This time of year is also when I think about what I want to do next year. Yes, it's time to think about goals, and make plans for 2018.<br />
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More details soon - have a good week. </div>
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-955177273066237722017-11-05T21:30:00.000+00:002017-11-07T18:56:55.326+00:00You're Not Supposed to Sabotage Yourself! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Calke Abbey in November - Maria A Smith</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Making plans means you get stuff done - which means you can relax and not worry about things. That's the theory, but it's easier said than done. Why? Because we don't stick to the plans we make, or the plan is flawed for any number of reasons, or perhaps the plan gets sabotaged. </span><span style="font-size: large;">I'm holding my hand up. I didn't stick to my plan, and I did my very best to sabotage it! Read on and you'll see how I did it.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">What I said I'd do and what I actually did...</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>WEEK 2</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b># Blog - </b>2 posts, one to go live, and one to have in reserve - 2 hours - <span style="color: red;">I managed 1 post in an hour. The novel took priority. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b># Novel - </b>Continue rearranging the novel in Scrivener - 2 hours - <span style="color: red;">Done in 6 hours 15 minutes, and it was very stressful! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b># Phoenix Writers Workshop Prep Work</b> - Create two characters and a reason for why they are going away together - 1 hour - <span style="color: red;">Done in 20 minutes</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b># Phoenix Writers Group - </b>Saturday <b>- </b>The workshop session<b> - </b>2 hours - <span style="color: red;">Done</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">On top of the above I also spent 2 hours putting together a writers workshop with a fellow writer, which we'll be rolling out at the end of the month. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>What I learnt last week...</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I can push myself to get stuff done. I'm really pleased I've managed to rearrange my novel in Scrivener, it means I can start the rewrite, which is exciting, but also scary, and already that little devil on my shoulder is saying things like, 'are you really sure you want to change this novel to first person?' </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">It's fear, I know it is, and I'm trying my best to ignore it. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I committed myself to seven hours, but ended up doing 11 hours and thirty-five minutes in total. Which is fabulous. Great. Hurrah! Well no not really. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I'm super pleased I achieved the target and got the novel preparation done, but, I worked into the early hours on several occasions, and worse, when I could of got on with my novel I procrastinated, made excuses and dodged doing it. Some of you will identify with it, the getting up and starting to clean things. Or tidy things, or eat things. Then I felt bad, and guilty, and stressed and ended up tired because I stayed up very late and made good my bad - I got it done. I don't want a repeat of the last week. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Below is a list of the things I'd like to get done, and I'll be tackling things differently. I'm going to prioritise, do, stuff I need to do, and then fit the other stuff in if I can. I must get to bed at a reasonable hour, and give time to other things that require my attention outside of writing.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">You'll notice the things with times allocated are where things are taking place. I've purposely not put times against the writing. Let's see how I do with this revised plan of action for the week ahead. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>WEEK THREE</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b># Blog - </b>Write 1 new post.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b># Novel - </b>Begin the rewrite, aim to complete a chapter. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b># Flash Fiction Challenge </b>- 50 Word Story</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"># <b>Writingchat - </b>1 hour </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b># Phoenix Writers Group - </b>2 hours</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b># 1-2-1 Mentoring Session </b>- 1 hour</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b># Monthly Mentoring Group</b> - 1 hour</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Other random stuff I did last week...</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"># 2 x 1 hour pilates classes, and a lovely walk in the fresh air with my camera. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"># Lost 3lb at Slimming World! Feeling chuffed I got off to a good start. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"># Cooked a new recipe, Chicken Parmigiana & Spaghetti Bake which was delicious, and went down well with all the family. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Best Foot Forward - Maria A Smith</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Right, I'm off to start this weeks plan. Let me know how things are going for you? </span></div>
Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-6095763250637121432017-10-29T12:23:00.000+00:002017-10-29T12:31:48.014+00:00Sunday is Prep Day! <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-imNPMAsQYkY/WfXE_U_KifI/AAAAAAAAGeI/yqol7V8BXOQ0qZXZDSxbnMHngOUHJwlkgCLcBGAs/s1600/plan-2372176_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-imNPMAsQYkY/WfXE_U_KifI/AAAAAAAAGeI/yqol7V8BXOQ0qZXZDSxbnMHngOUHJwlkgCLcBGAs/s640/plan-2372176_1920.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Pixabay </i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Sunday is all about starting over for me, it's the day I put my plans into motion for the week ahead. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Before I do that though, I should explain how the last week has worked out. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">You may recall I started a new regime, a new plan went into action - the last seven days have been all about paving the way for the total rewrite of my novel. I've wobbled, it's tricky trying to keep all the balls in the air and I'm sure many writers can relate to juggling lots of different things at once.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">What exactly did I get done in between work, family, and life in general. Firstly, I enlisted the help of a good writing buddy. <a href="https://mrkelly2u.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Wayne Kelly</a>, who also wants to get his novel finished, and like me needs some extra motivation and encouragement. We've partnered up and agreed we're both going to have our novels finished by 30th June 2018 one way or another. It took quite a lot just to write that date down. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">What I pledged to do and what I managed to do...</span></b></div>
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<b id="yiv4768239270yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1508709505866_5537" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">WEEK 1</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b id="yiv4768239270yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1508709505866_5668" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;"># Blog - </b><span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;">Brainstorm </span>12 ideas , and write two posts this week. One to go live and one to bank in reserve - 2 hours - <span style="color: red;">C<b>ompleted, however it took me 3 hours.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b id="yiv4768239270yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1508709505866_8246" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;"># Novel - </b><span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;">Rearrange</span><b style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;"> </b>Broken Child in Scrivener, in readiness to rewrite it from start to finish - 2.5 hours. <span style="color: red;"><b>Although I spent the allotted time, it isn't ready to begin rewriting. </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b id="yiv4768239270yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1508709505866_8678" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;"># Writingchat -</b>Wednesday evening chat with other writers - 1 hour - <span style="color: red;">Done </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b id="yiv4768239270yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1508709505866_8832" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;"># Flash Challenge - </b><span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;">150 word flash fiction challenge for Saturday - </span>30 minutes. <span style="color: red;"><b>Done, </b></span></span><span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>but again it took me longer - 1 hour, 10 minutes.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b id="yiv4768239270yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1508709505866_8986" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;"># Phoenix Manuscript - </b><span style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px;">Edit the work I'm taking to read out at my critique group on Saturday - </span>30 minutes. <span style="color: red;"><b>Done, but it took 1 hour.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b># Phoenix Writers Group - </b>Saturday morning - 2 hours. <span style="color: red;"><b>Done</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b># 1-2-1 Mentoring Session - </b>Motivation and help with Scrivener - 1 hour. <span style="color: red;"><b>Done</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>What I learnt this week...</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I committed myself to too much, said I was going to do 9 hours, which was too ambitious and I knew it was at the time, it's a lot, but then it took me longer at just over 12 hours, and I felt overwhelmed, I'm not Super Women and I put too much on my writing 'to do' list, and alongside work, family life, running a home, social time and exercise it's not doable. So I ended up being short on sleep as I was staying up way too late to complete everything. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I need to rearrange and commit myself to less, so that I can get more done. I realise I need to focus, and over the next few weeks I will have to make some hard decisions on what I'm going to give up. You're probably looking at this and thinking it's obvious what needs to go to give priority to getting the novel finished. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Hopefully, I'm going to learn the lesson quickly of what needs to be done over the coming weeks, I will have to quit other writing projects and some of the other writing related stuff I do, and with that in mind, here's my plan for this week.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>WEEK 2</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>#Blog - </b>2 posts, one to go live, and one to have in reserve - 2 hours</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>#Novel - </b>Continue rearranging the novel in Scrivener - 2 hours</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>#Phoenix Writers Workshop Prep Work</b> - Create two characters and a reason for why they are going away together - 1 hour</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b># Phoenix Writers Group - </b>Saturday <b>- </b>The workshop session<b> - </b>2 hours</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Apart from my writing progress I'm pleased to announce that I upped my exercise regime, I spent a tough hour in the gym with an instructor, did two Aqua classes, a stretch class and managed to go for a few twenty minute walks. Yes, I know, I could of spent this time writing, but actually I believe exercise is good for writers. It gives you more energy, combats health diseases and controls weight. It also improves mood and gives you an emotional lift. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>In other random news...</b> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"># I went to the cinema to see The Snowman a crime thriller horror based on the novel by Jo Nesbo, it's very dark, and gory, but definitely worth a watch if you like that sort of thing.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"># I started a new Audible book, The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood, which I listen to on car journeys. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"># I listened to an episode of the <a href="https://joinedupwritingpodcast.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Joined Up Writing Podcast</a> whilst exercising, and by the way, you can get a <b>FREE Audible trial </b>over there at the moment. If you've ever wondered about audiobooks, and want to try it out on your phone, iPod, or laptop etc - it's all very handy when you're peeling potatoes or running a mile or two, or if you're relaxing in the bath. As you do...</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Also, just to add, the Joined Up Podcasts are <b>FREE </b>and are really useful as they feature a different writer each episode who talks about their own journey to publication, or they offer great advice on other writing related topics. Pop over and take a look - give it a go, you've nothing to lose. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"># Had time to myself on Saturday afternoon to do some essential shopping, and now have a lovely comfy pair of Skechers boots in readiness for cooler days. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"># I had a lovely meal on my own in Carluccio's in Leicester after the shopping, all very healthy, and it was lovely to sit and people watch, as you do...</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"># I've rejoined Slimming World. Yes, I took a deep breath and walked back through the door Wednesday teatime. I need to lose weight, I'm carrying too much, and it's not good for my back. I was quite horrified how much I'd managed to put back on in the 5 months I've been absent. It's all down to my passion for cake! I can't cut it out, but I can limit it to one slice a week.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Right well, I've rambled on, and now I have to go off and start this plan. Do let me know what you're up to, and do share your tips with me on how I can balance things better. I really look forward to hearing from you.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Jn9-v-I_t4/WfXD-G6osoI/AAAAAAAAGeA/VGsFiuaELpQtGaNlJ1hJKlj41lltgOkdgCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_50b.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Jn9-v-I_t4/WfXD-G6osoI/AAAAAAAAGeA/VGsFiuaELpQtGaNlJ1hJKlj41lltgOkdgCLcBGAs/s400/fullsizeoutput_50b.jpeg" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I love pasta! - <i>Maria A Smith</i></span></td></tr>
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-43108692853474775992017-10-22T21:00:00.000+00:002017-10-28T21:08:39.977+00:00Operation 'Get Me Back on Track' <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6mMXbTlNzRI/We5toXhznPI/AAAAAAAAGZQ/nh_-nIdoRxQV0G-RopAOJ8knzKCezvhMQCLcBGAs/s1600/running-498257_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6mMXbTlNzRI/We5toXhznPI/AAAAAAAAGZQ/nh_-nIdoRxQV0G-RopAOJ8knzKCezvhMQCLcBGAs/s640/running-498257_1920.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back on Track </td></tr>
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<b>This is operation Get Me Back on Track!</b><br />
<br />
I've been missing from the blog for a couple of months - being honest, I desperately needed a break, I was worn out and couldn't keep topside of everything being thrown at me. Overwhelm mixed with something I couldn't put my finger on sapped all my energy. Not to mention a change in my working arrangements.<br />
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Feeling weary had become the norm, and oddly I realised I'd been getting bored with everything around me. I couldn't face blogging, or any other writing project, other than doing my morning pages, so I decided it was time to take time out to rest, and think about what I really want to do.<br />
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<br /></div>
Two months have passed and I'm feeling a lot better, and I'm back with a new enthusiasm. The rest gave me time to sort out what was pulling me down, and it wasn't what I thought it was...would you believe it, I was short on iron, which took me some working out, but was easily remedied with tablets. I've also drastically upped my water consumption too. It seems it's easier than what you think to slide into a situation where you're running on empty.<br />
<br />
This post is my new beginning, I'm feeling re-energised, and I'm here with my new plan.<br />
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I've cleared the decks as much as I can, and lists have been made for this and for that, such as when am I going to do any chores? What's for dinner for the next two weeks? When am I exercising? What about family and friend time? And what time is bedtime? Yes, all these things really do have to be considered, if you are making time for your writing.<br />
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<b>WRITING</b><br />
<br />
That novel that was getting the better of me is going to be rewritten, and I'm going to share my progress here every week. So lets get on with it.<br />
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I've had <a href="https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener.php" target="_blank">Scrivener</a> a while - it's a great piece of software aimed specifically at writers, once you get to grips with how it works it makes writing a novel so much easier. Luckily, there are several resources around to help you set up and get to grips with how to do things. One of the best I've found is <a href="https://www.scrivenervirgin.com/" target="_blank">ScrivenerVirgin</a> which is run by Anne Rainbow, who offers step-by-step advice on how to use this powerful software.<br />
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My first task is to get my novel draft into a new Scrivener project. Something I'm not feeling terribly confident over. I'll let you know how that goes next week.<br />
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In the meantime, I wish you all a productive week.Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-62584761124751080632017-08-20T19:00:00.000+00:002018-08-02T22:41:00.615+00:00Artist's Date<div class="wb-stl-normal" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Noto Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Street Art in Leicester - Maria A Smith </i></td></tr>
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It's been just over a month since I last posted to this blog, and I'm eager to catch up and get things back on track. Firstly, thank you to everyone for their best wishes, my mum is making good progress and things have settled down. </div>
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Real life happens to all of us, and sometimes you have no choice but to stop what you're doing, and pick up and run with whatever it is that takes priority. Interestingly, with all the many changes, I've managed to keep writing throughout the last month, albeit in short bursts. I have a new monologue, and I've managed some flash fiction too.<br />
<br />
I've also started doing morning pages, which some of you may be familiar with yourselves. It's a twelve week course taken from the book <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Artists-Way-Discovering-Recovering-Creative/dp/1509829474/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8">The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron</a>, which involves writing three handwritten pages of A4 each morning, upon waking. The idea behind it is to get rid of all the stuff in your head which is holding your artist back. I've already completed four weeks and feel so much happier for doing them. It's hard to explain but they really do help clear your head and leave you feeling energised. The book is a game changer for anyone feeling jaded or blocked. Or if you need some motivation.<br />
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You also commit to going on an Artist's date once a week, which is basically time spent on your own doing something different. So far I've been to the cinema, done my own version of aqua aerobics at the pool, and most recently I walked around the cultural quarter in Leicester with my camera, capturing images of the street art on the walls of buildings, and hoardings around renovation projects. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0wx5kRTIRr0/WZCmvUYs4zI/AAAAAAAAFmU/uApkZEcP-nMlBv9BXJIlZQvEv4Qdpia2gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1134" data-original-width="1600" height="451" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0wx5kRTIRr0/WZCmvUYs4zI/AAAAAAAAFmU/uApkZEcP-nMlBv9BXJIlZQvEv4Qdpia2gCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_0293.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Street Art Leicester - Maria A Smith </i></td></tr>
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Some of the murals are large scale and cover complete building walls. All are part of Bring the Paint International Street Art Festival, which happened a few months ago. The idea was to transform Leicester with high impact street art of a superior quality.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_bNr3DmZcE0/WZjDOJ8F2rI/AAAAAAAAFmk/LuJcMMmrWHom1ZjCoD6u2JRuMEau2hr8wCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_357.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1396" data-original-width="1600" height="556" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_bNr3DmZcE0/WZjDOJ8F2rI/AAAAAAAAFmk/LuJcMMmrWHom1ZjCoD6u2JRuMEau2hr8wCLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_357.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Street Art Leicester - Maria A Smith </i></td></tr>
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The event bought 150 artists together, and there are more legal spray sites across the city which I have yet to explore. The art work is a visual celebration of Leicester's diverse culture. I found it fascinating, and really enjoyed photographing the artworks. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3s4iilebsf0/WZjES0nTMcI/AAAAAAAAFmw/wVB3yVne1qsfV4Mf0g_2A2GRiXqsi4fsACLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_335.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1493" data-original-width="1600" height="595" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3s4iilebsf0/WZjES0nTMcI/AAAAAAAAFmw/wVB3yVne1qsfV4Mf0g_2A2GRiXqsi4fsACLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_335.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Street Art Leicester - Maria A Smith </i></td></tr>
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Spending time on my own has been enjoyable, and I'd encourage you to try The Artist's Way for yourself. At first it will seem like a big ask of yourself to make a solo expedition to explore something that makes you curious, because we are too busy, and won't take the time out, but trust me it's worth it.<br />
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It will be a challenge for me to come up with more interesting dates, but I'm going to give it my best shot.<br />
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What have you been up to? <br />
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Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144576325328779987.post-65622341012664112852017-07-19T17:24:00.001+00:002017-07-19T23:14:10.812+00:00How Long is a Chapter? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxQSso8kY9JfKtwD18aY8vh9S9rI8C2EUHRxWnATo5nKOcrgPyzO0TegVx8u2yp83AefAsMHHdaj9-w2EEqt9JPBmw6Ev4OTYtPKYoip0OE35EU2cs1U74xy-abSEQiZjrklS22iEnE9Cy/s1600/ambulance-2166079_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxQSso8kY9JfKtwD18aY8vh9S9rI8C2EUHRxWnATo5nKOcrgPyzO0TegVx8u2yp83AefAsMHHdaj9-w2EEqt9JPBmw6Ev4OTYtPKYoip0OE35EU2cs1U74xy-abSEQiZjrklS22iEnE9Cy/s640/ambulance-2166079_1920.jpg" width="430" /></a></div>
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<br />
Writing Magazine arrived last week or perhaps even the week before, I'm not sure if I'm honest. Life has gone a bit wobbly. I'm exasperated, last month I spent serious time ridding myself of things that stopped me from getting on with my writing. Some were things I really like doing.<br />
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I'd made headway, freed up time, made a plan and then WHAM! Life throws me a curve ball. I'm not alone, it's happening daily to others too. Having almost got my offspring sorted, it looks like I'll be needed to help (do everything) for my mum. I'm all at sea, I have no idea how to manage work, home, and care. It's a shock. But you do what you have to do.<br />
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I've dipped my toe into the treacherous waters known as 'the system' of caring for someone who can no longer care for themselves. I've made more phone calls in three days than I have in the last two months, just to get someone to come out and change some dressings. Mum had a cancerous lump removed from her head, and skin taken from her leg has been grafted onto the head wound. It's okay hospitals saying the dressing need checking and changing daily by a nurse, but if there is no care in the community, or very little to go around, what are we supposed to do? The GP surgery advised me that as of eight weeks ago they don't do secondary care.<br />
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We had to cope. I took matters into my own hands, well it's not like I had to deliver a baby - it's a dressing! Two actually. I managed the leg okay, but faltered with the head wound, it didn't look right - it looked nasty, I'm not squeamish, but you sort of know when something isn't right don't you? Or do you? What do I know, I'm in engineering, not medicine. More phone calls. Lengthy repeated conversations with people who you know are stretched to the limit.<br />
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Then success, someone will come out between 7.30am and 7.30pm, so while I go about life, Mum sits and waits. They come, they say I did okay with the leg, but I'm right to have called about the head wound. They'll come back tomorrow.<br />
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They don't. Or the next day, or the next. I keep ringing up and finally they say they'll come out. They've been busy dealing with the sick and dying.<br />
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Tuesday - Mum tells me it was a different nurse. 'Very young, lovely girl, had to look up how to do the dressing on one of those things you've got with an Apple on it.' I'm calm - it's been done, all is well and happy. I slap down thoughts about proper training and feel guilty about having nasty thoughts. These people are doing their best.<br />
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Twelve hours later the phone rings 'Maria, I'm sorry, the dressing has come off, it wasn't put on very well.' Tears. Not mine.<br />
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I ring. They say they are coming. <br />
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Friends told me tales, I've been sympathetic, but it isn't until it happens close to home, that you realise, they aren't crazy or being mean, when they tell you, they feel guilty because they don't feel they are doing enough, because they are going to work, looking after children, their own or their grandchildren, can't remember when they last went out, exercised, or sat down and read a book. They get called out at night, they tell me they can't go on, they can't sleep, they feel angry, and in one case, they want to run away, and never look back. <br />
<br />
They tell you the system is overloaded, because we're living too long, having too many children, letting too many folks into the country, blah, blah, blah you've heard it all before. You think maybe they ARE having a mental breakdown. Because this friend doesn't usually rant, or snap. In your heart you know it's frustration. You understand now what they meant when they said, 'It's hopeless.'<br />
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**</div>
My week has passed in flash, I've done 500 words of prose and written this blog post, I haven't got time to edit, please forgive any typos.<br />
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At 4.30pm I forced myself to sit down and have a cup of tea, picked up Writing Magazine and read an interview with AA Dhand, crime novelist, (page 16 August edition) I'm not familiar with his books, but after reading the interview I want to read them. You can find out more about him <a href="https://www.aadhand.com/">here</a><br />
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Amit, a trained pharmacist writes between 9pm and midnight, I smiled when I read that - his books are dark noir. In the interview he says he has a formula, he's all about pace and driving the story forward. All his chapters are 1,700 words per chapter, because Writing Magazine competitions are 1,700 words. He wants to make sure readers finish reading each chapter. He always leaves his chapters on a cliff hanger, he got that from Dan Brown, I'm nodding in agreement, I read that too and try to do the same. He listens to Hans Zimmer when he's writing, that is so spooky, so do I, and he reads Stephen King.<br />
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It got me thinking, how long is a chapter? Are all your chapters the same length? Mine aren't, maybe I should try it? Let me know your thoughts?<br />
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Meanwhile, I must return to this new chapter of my life, I must find out if the nurse has been? If she managed to change the dressing? Or if she had to go before she could finish?<br />
<br />Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05322234219197041788noreply@blogger.com20