Inspiration

What are the things that inspire you? A sunset, the ocean, a rainbow?

All of these things provide inspiration for me, but so do simple things like snow on tiny pinecones or the first flowers of spring.

I often relate inspiration to a feeling of awe, but really it doesn’t have to be awe-inspiring to provide inspiration.

So what do you think? What

Your Most Beautiful Sunset

This was the view out my window yesterday. I could not believe the colors … or that I was able to capture them fairly accurately.

It was gorgeous. I wonder if I will remember this sunset in years to come? Possibly…but memories hat last and stand out are often related to strong emotions.

Time may be the only test for whether this sunset will be remembered – though this picture will help. 😉

What about you? Do you have a sunset memory? What was going on at the time? Were there strong emotions involved?

Set your timer and write about it.

Ready … set … write!

Signs of Spring

Today I found violetss blooming in my flowerbed. You have to understand … just yesterday there was still snow in my yard. But now I have flowers!!!

I am so happy to see signs of spring!!!

What about you? Are you seeing signs of spring where you live? Or is it not spring at all where you live?

Let me know about it.

Set your timer and ready … set … write!

Colosseum

In January 2020 I had the opportunity to visit Rome. It was unlike any other place I have visited – from the 800 year old fountain across the street to the almost 2000 year old Colosseum and 2700 year old ruins of the Roman Forum.

Then, a couple of weeks after we returned home, Rome went on lockdown. People were sick and dieing by the hundreds. Yet it was the same city we had just left.

It seemed unreal. We were in shock, hoping those people we had met were safe yet knowing that they likely could not escape some impact.

What about you? What were you doing in January of 2020 before life changed? How did your life change in the following weeks and months?

Okay. Set your timer for 5 minutes; then ready … set … write!

International Women’s Day

Today is a day to think about the women who have influenced who you have become, or who you would like to become.

What better way to honor those women than to write about them.

So, for today’s free writing, write about a woman you admire, or one who has been an influence in your life.

Set your timer and ready … set … write!

Ukraine

I think all of us have felt some impact from the attack on Ukraine.

For me, it is shocking and horrifying that this has happened. I want to help, yet no amount of help will undo the harm that has already been inflicted.

However, there are organizations on the ground in and around Ukraine who are helping. This article from the Washington Post includes several.

Also, reserving AirBnB rentals in the Ukraine is a way to get money to individuals still inside the country (at least it was late last week).

As this war continues, there will probably be various ways that open for a short time and then have to shut down.

For today’s free write, take some time to consider what this war means for you, and also what you can do to help.

And please pray for Ukraine and all of the innocent people in harm’s way.

Okay. Are you ready? Get set … write!

National Oreo Day?!?

Hey there!

Have you ever heard of National Oreo Day? Well apparently that is today. I love Oreos. They are one of my favorite store-bought cookies. But a national day? I guess almost anything can have its own day now.

What do you think? Do Oreos deserve a national (or worldwide) day? Although, I’ve heard it said that Oreos in Europe do not taste the same as Oreos in the US. Not sure about other countries, but if you don’t like them, they may not be the same as the little round bits of yumminess that we have here in the US.

Anyway, set your timer and write about Oreos, or National Days, or whatever your heart desires.

Ready – Set – Write!

World Wildlife Day

World Wildlife Day with Mountain Goat at Logan Pass, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

One of my favorite experiences with wildlife is seeing the Mountain Goats at Glacier National Park in Montana, USA. If you ever get the opportunity to go, take the trail from Logan Pass to the Hidden Lake Overlook.

Near the overlook, there are often mountain goats rummaging around in the rocks and bushes. They come very close and seem so tame that you really have to remind yourself that they are wild animals and should be dealt with using wariness and caution.

Glacier National Park has also been the place where we have seen grizzly bears, moose, and many other species of wildlife. Someday we would like to see a wolf (from a very great distance).

What about you? What experiences have you had with wildlife?

Share in the comments, then set your timer and ready … set … write!

Read Across America Day

Hello everyone! It is Read Across America Day, so I thought I’d ask about your favorite genre for reading in leisure time.

I read all different types of books, but my favorite when relaxing is historical romance. What about you? I’d love to hear what your favorite is. Leave it in the comments if you’d like. Then get ready to write about it.

Ready … set … write!

Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras or Carnival … a time for parties and revelry before the days of Lent. It isn’t really a time I have celebrated much, though I have seen some small celebrations.

What about you? Is Mardi Gras a time that you celebrate? What do you like best about it? Is it a part of your culture? Or just a time you enjoy?

Set you timers and ready … set … write!