No writing lesson today! Instead, I wanted to share a bit about what I've been up to...because isn't that more fun to read than just another writing how-to? We all have enough marketer-y content in our lives already. Let's start with the books.
Reading List
It's been a while since I've shared what's in my reading pile, and, in general....I feel like I've been in a bit of a reading rut lately. I can't seem to hit my stride with books I can't seem to put down. That said, I'm still double-timing my reads for the sake of variety (so, one audiobook, one physical book.)
Here are a few good ones I enjoyed:
The Nix by Nathan Hill: I read Wellness by this same author last year, and it was nearly perfect, so of course I had to go back and read his other book as well. The Nix was lengthy but a great example of expert-level narrative-building, interesting characters, and just plain good writing. Wellness was better overall, but both of Hill's books are about one of my favorite topics: humanity. It seems his theme is that humans are complex, and with enough information, everything makes sense.
No One Tells You This by Glynnis MacNicol: This writer shares her experience as a single, 40-something woman with no children. These stories aren't told often, and when they are, they're often through a pretty negative lens. It was nice to hear her share her POV on this, and I liked that she got into both the good and the bad. You can tell she's a journalist, too, because she really put herself under the microscope.
I'm getting into Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver right now, and it's so compelling but SO tough to listen to. Anyone else out there struggle with it? I'd put it on the same level as watching the show Maid.
Important message that reminds you to be grateful, but also absolutely heartbreaking.
Life Stuff
I've been traveling a ton for work: Conferences, interviews, etc. It's been nice to get away from the cold weather in the Midwest.
I just went to SXSW for the first time last week, and this weekend, I'm making a first-time trip to Las Vegas to moderate a panel at a conference there. (I'm extra excited about the Cirque de Soleil show I'm seeing while there!) Next month, I'm going to Washington D.C. (yay, cherry blossoms!) and then to Sedona, Arizona for a hiking trip.
I wrote a while back about how the 10 years of working alone/from home has caught up with me lately, which is why I'm working hard to put myself back out in the world. I miss seeing new things, connecting with people face-to-face, and just being outside the confines of my house.
Yes, travel is exhausting, but it feels good. It reminds me the world is big and there's so much to see.
Pupdate
Last, but not least: My dog Brooks has a baby brother now. Meet Crosby!
He's nine weeks old this week and driving Brooks absolutely nuts, but they haven't killed each other, so...progress? Brooks is 10 now, so I've completely forgotten how much work a baby dog is.
This was a very impulsive decision, but the thought process was: Since Brooks is older, he can teach the little one how to be calm (since he's finally achieved this state for himself.) I'm still waiting for him to teach that to ME. Crosby is very cute, but he's...he's something! We're in the potty training phase right now so just send some good vibes, okay? There's so much pee. The paper towel budget is through the ROOF over here.
Finally, a few reminders:
Don't forget to listen to the latest episodes of the Freelance Writing Coach Podcast (new ones each Monday!)
If you're looking for a writing coach, I can help with that. I also have plenty of writing and freelancing resources for you right here.
You're good enough, you're smart enough, and doggone it, people like you.
