Brainstorming & Birthdays

I love brainstorming books.

I love the endless possibilities at the outset, all the combinations of what ifs, and the “Oh, have you ever thought about trying this?” suggestions.

Brainstorming is definitely one of my favorite stages of the writing process. That, and discovering who the characters are as I write and rewrite, digging deeper with each pass.

One of our brainstorming sessions (Coeur d’Alene 2021)

Part of our brainstorming weekend in Coeur d’Alene always involves LOTS of laughter, as you can see me and Janet Ulbright doing here. I could hardly catch my breath!

Janet Ulbright and me sharing a funny moment

After I brainstorm a book, something special starts happening. Life starts introducing ideas all around me. And that’s exactly what happened when we went to an art fair in Coeur d’Alene this year.

I happened across a booth FULL of the art that my female protagonist crafts. She works in metals. And when Robin and I happened across this booth, Robin snapped a pic for my idea file.

Art fair Couer d’Alene 2021

I love brainstorming—and I also love birthdays, which is a good thing because they just keep comin’!

I celebrated the BIG 6-0 last week and welcome this next decade with open arms. There’s so much to be grateful for these days, and so much that I would still like to do, Lord willing. Yet there’s a comfort in knowing who you really are—which takes getting some years beneath your belt to truly grasp. And there’s also a sweet peace in knowing who you will never be. So far 60 is fabulous!

60th Bday celebration with friends and family

Strawberry Cream Cake from Triple Crown Bakery in Franklin – YUM!

One of my favorite gifts I received this year is a gorgeous and oh-so-cushy handmade blanket from my dear friend Kim. And the little sign I’m holding (RELAX, we’re all crazy. It’s not a competition.) is also a fun one. (Thanks, sweet Kim!) Kim matched the colors to our house perfectly. But no surprise there. She’s an amazing decorator.

And now…a GIVEAWAY!

If you haven’t read At Love’s Command by our own sweet Karen Witemeyer, it’s an absolute must! I’m giving away a copy to one special Inspired by Life & Fiction friend today. At Love’s Command is a wonderful story about the power of God’s redemption.