A Blog Pivot

Since my day job is at an academic medical center, I thought I might change the flavor of this blog from children's writing to children's health and activities. This main focus pivot will align better with my daily thoughts and perhaps lend itself to posting more often. 

So... have you heard about the various healthy activities available for kids during the summer months? I spotted this extensive list and wanted to pass it along. The fun includes artistic, indoor/outdoor, exploration, local trips and more!

Let me know your favorites. I love biking/hiking, drawing/painting, and dreaming up new juice pops and smoothie flavors! - Q

Summertime Fun for Writers

Since most writers are told to write what they know, you would think it a simple process, right? Well, not really... since what we know might not be applicable to the age group or genre we are targeting in our writing. OR we may have exhausted the topics we know well and need fresh ideas.

What to do? I try to get out during the summer and discover new ideas, destinations, and activities that stimulate my writing. 

Never learned how to swim, knit, or play checkers? Take lessons, read a DIY Pinterest post or get a friend to teach you. New experiences help you gain new ideas and insights that stir the creative pot. 

I call it creative cross-training. I take one day off from the day job every week or two, grab my camera, and explore an activity or place I am unfamiliar with. It's a blast and gets the wheels turning. Give it a try and let me know how it goes. -Q

Vacation Time is Divine

As many people do, I have fond memories of summer vacation. School was out and except for household chores and sometimes grueling (if I didn't have a stack of books) car trips, the 3 months of summer were divine. Being known as a children's writer helps when people see me light up with joy at the start of June and don't dim until after Labor Day. 

Even though I have to work at the day job all summer, I do get a couple of weeks off for good behavior. (Yes, Oregon. It was good to see you too!)

In my writing, I try to capture that child-like glee of summer freedom as well. Anything that detracts from that feeling is "the problem" and the return of joy is the solution. Simple, right? Not really, but I like to think of childhood in those terms. (Yes, I am a bit of a Pollyanna. I admit it, but its better than the grumpy alternative.) 

As you embark on your summer writing, try to use favorite summer home/vacation memories to pull the wonder of freedom and anticipation into your work. The exercise may surprise you and help develop depth to your work that you didn't anticipate. Happy summer! - Q