We never know how our creativity might bless others. Nope, we just never know.

The other day, I was deep in thought, writing the next great American novel (or something like that) at the little cafe inside the hospital. It was only noon, but it already felt like a long day. My husband and I woke up at five so he could check in at six…and then wait for over three hours to have surgery. By this time, I had received a call from the surgeon saying all went well, but I wasn’t allowed to see the patient yet. So I remained on my computer, typing away on my keyboard at a private table littered with my breakfast trash and more than a few crumbs. (There’s no tidy way to eat a croissant.)

A local high school invited me to speak at their Career Day last month. While my presentation focused on various writing careers and possible academic routes for the students to consider, I also told them, regarding being a book author, “I hope you’ll go for it, but don’t quit your day job!”

That may sound negative, but the truth is most book authors do not come close to making a living off their books. Still, it's also true that a book can be a priceless gift to those who read it. A fiction story that inspires and entertains, a non-fiction read that illuminates and educates—the world will always need these gems.

Since my book LaDelle & Jubilant was released this past August, I’ve received many comments and reviews that included a statement like, “I learned so much about George Washington Carver! Now I’m intrigued to know more.”

I love these responses because, as I wove George into my historical fiction novel, I hoped to entice readers to want to discover more about this noteworthy man. So, for those who would like some additional info, I’ve compiled a few resources for you in this post. Merry Christmas!

“Don’t chuck your goals!” I get that it can be discouraging, but it’s okay to hit pause. Sometimes stepping back from a goal for a time will do you and the goal some good. When life happens and you feel you’re being handed a setback, perhaps you’re actually being blessed with a divine interruption.

“I choose to write about people whose values I respect and who do life-affirming work; my pleasure is to bear witness to their lives.” — William Zinsser, Writing About Your Life

Stories draw us in and evoke emotion and, hopefully, action. As a writer, I look for stories wherever I go as I observe people. Once in a while, though, I have the pleasure of being with someone who is willing to give up their story to me and tell me a bit about their life. Sometimes you just need to ask…

On Sundays for most of my growing-up years, my parents would drive over to my Great Aunt Helen’s place to pick her up for church. Our car would tilt to the right as, with some effort and an “oomph,” she’d join me and one or two of my brothers in the backseat. Each week Aunt Helen brought with her three things…

Later that day, when we were back home, Ezra wanted to make a birthday card for Teacher Jackie. His mama said she’d tell him how to spell “Happy Birthday,” but he had a different idea. “I want to write something else,” he said. This was his message: 

My great-uncle was Walt Stanchfield. You may not know that name, but you’re familiar with his work. He was an animator for Disney for nearly 40 years, 20 of those serving as a teacher/coach for the animation department. If you’ve ever seen The Aristocats, Lady and the Tramp, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, or The Jungle Book, you’ve experienced Walt’s artistic talents. (For a list of 15 additional films he was a part of, check out https://disney.fandom.com/wiki/Walt_Stanchfield).

Mark Twain said, “Write what you know,” but I hope what he meant was writing what you know is a good starting point. Personally, I get excited about writing what I want to know and can research. Mix in a good measure of imagination to that, and now we’re cookin’ (on paper). Experience, research, and imagination are the necessary ingredients to be able to write a good story.

I’m directionally challenged, and it can make for some frustrating moments and wasted time.

And yet…

When it comes to writing, I can create and effectively use a “road map” of sorts to take me where I want to go. (Winning!) This saves me time and frustration, and, in the case of fiction writing, especially, I’m given fuel for my creativity.