Monthly Archives: August 2015

My local newspaper has a weekly section devoted to Things To Do for members of the community. Sometimes it’s a concert, or the mention of an exhibit at a local museum, college or something “downtown” on the historic square. 

I usually gravitate towards the activities which are free, instructional or open to the public. There’s so much free stuff out there to DO if you really look for it, and I find that people who are open to sharing what they know creatively open my eyes in unexpected ways. 

So I jumped at the chance to attend a workshop slash meeting to learn even more about one of my favorite instruments: the dulcimer. I have three–two are pictured here–along with a variety of other stringed instruments in my collection. Most of them I can actually play a little, but when the opportunity arose to attend a session with folks who actually DO play, well yes. I went. 

 I knew no one in the room when I got there. The group leaders gave us history, demonstrations and then encouraged us to “noodle around” on our own with the sheet music provided. 

Looking all around the room, I could see that no two instruments were alike. Likewise, the playing style(s) of individuals while on their own were different. So when we came together to play the song, we stayed together–mostly–to learn something new. As we return home we can use that new skill to create something unique. Oh, and now I have a few new friends.  

I couldn’t help but find a parallel to that in my writing too, so as I’m noodling around on this Work In Progress, I’ll do well to remember that it will be my style, my voice and my POV that will make my writing become alive. 

Happy Creating!

I’ve had plenty of opportunities to work on a great many projects, and some of them actually get completed! Here are a few examples: three handwoven scarves made from handspun yarns. One hand knit hat, also created from handspun yarn. 

 I’ll call it “research” for my current writing Work-in-Progress. I spun the yarns. I made the hat and scarves, too. 

I demonstrate hand spinning in public and talk about alpaca one day a week. Sometimes I’ll meet another fiber crafts person and we’ll talk about yarn. When I visit the Farmer’s Markets, I have a chance to purchase fruit or vegetables that we aren’t growing for ourselves. There is SO much to taste at a Farmer’s Market. The colors in the vendors’ booths are delicious, too!

It’s not that I procrastinate too much and don’t get anything accomplished. 

It’s just that there’s SO much that catches my creative eye, and I want to sample some of it all, you know?

Happy creating!