How Writing Affects Me

Rosario Beach: A popular spot for pondering
 during the NW Writers Retreat 

In the world of writing, I'm a newbie.  I've only been at it about three years.  I don't have a degree in English, and I've never been published.  I'm working on my sixteenth (and FINAL) draft of my Young Adult novel. Every single draft was absolutely necessary. Believe me.

Before writing, I was pretty self-contained.  I worked hard, kept my head down, and got things done. But, aside from a job well done, I had nothing to show for all my hard work. When I talk to my older children, they have few memories growing up.  There are even fewer pictures, and no journal entries.

Somewhere along the line, I got bit by the writing bug.  In addition to my first story, I have completed first drafts for three other books in this series, and am 1/3 of the way through a first draft  in another, paralleling series. All of my books are based off my children, their personalities, mannerisms, and even funny things they've said. Then I turn them into action stars!

What I'm most surprised by, though, is how writing affects so many other parts of my life.  All of the sudden, I'm writing a spiritual journal, updating three blogs, planning a book of family memories with my sisters, and a short story detailing how my husband and I met and got engaged (in three days).  Plus, I have dozens of other story ideas popping into my head at any given time.  I'll be busy for the next 30 years, and then some.

Seemingly incidental moments in life take on a whole new light.  Thoughts that would have flitted in and out of my mind turn into ideas to be examined, considered, written down, and remembered.

Moments with my children turn into vignettes and short stories.  Random events morph into writing prompts or scenes within books.  My life seems to have become one giant story, waiting to be filled with words by articulating thoughts, emotions,and moments onto paper.

Being a writer helps me to pause and take stock of my life.  Moments no longer speed by in an endless feed. Experiences that would have otherwise been skipped over are recognized as what they are: a blessing from our Father in Heaven. They're recognized as milestones and opportunities to connect with my family; memories to be told and re-told.

If I never publish my stories, that's okay.  Because by taking this journey, I have gained so much more than I could ever have imagined. I have re-gained my life, my family, and my testimony. I  have gained perspective.

I am NOT the Same Susan Allred that wrote Beyond the Wall

Just to make a few hazy points clearer, I am NOT the same Susan Allred who wrote 'Beyond the Wall'.

Yes, I am a writer.  No.  I am not a published author...yet.

I do write mystery games though.  And I actually sell them.  Does that make me a paid author?  Hmm.  That may be up for debate. You can see some of my work at www.whodunnitmysteries.com .

But as far as publishing a book.  Nope.  I'm not there yet.  Though, admittedly, I haven't even tried to pitch any of my books to a literary agent or a publisher yet.

I respect this trade, and there is a gigantic learning curve for someone like me who has never done any serious writing up until 2  years ago, and has no degree in literature, English, or similar subjects.

I respect this craft, and therefore take my work seriously enough to know that there is much I must learn before I can be arrogant enough to think that I should ask someone to take time out of their busy schedule to read my stuff.

A) Because there are hundreds and thousands of other aspiring authors requesting the same.

B) Because I want the reader to be so enthralled with my book that they want to sit and read the WHOLE THING. Not just a couple measly pages.  But that's just me.  :)

So, I will continue to write this little blog of mine, and keep plugging away at my many manuscripts and learning every little detail there is to learn about not only writing, but being an excellent writer.

Maybe sometime soon, I will be able to announce that I'm going to be published though.


Soon.   Very very soon.  (maniacal laughter in the background).


P.S.  I'm up to 16,000 words on my 3rd manuscript!!  It's coming along!