Writing exercise

This weekend, spend some time outside (if possible — I know "spring" doesn't always mean good weather; but you can also do this exercise by sitting in a cafe, pub, etc., as long as you're near a window).

Write two pages about a stranger you see — on the street, in the park, near you at the movies, etc.

The idea is, whether you're working on a novel already filled with characters or whether you're starting a new piece from scratch, it's great to take some time to observe those around you. So...