Wednesday, February 22, 2012

3...2...1... LAUNCH!! Introducing: I Ponder... Wednesdays!

Today... TODAY my life goes back to normal. I get to be a wife, mom, writer, and blogger once again, instead of the politician I feel I was becoming. I will be covering my MeeGenius challenge sometime soon, but for now, I am excited to launch my official weekly series:



I PONDER... Wednesdays!


Yep. This will be the place where I will discuss thoughts I have on all things- from the simple to the complex. My goal is to take writers away from focusing on the business side of their craft, and help them remember what got them involved with their passion.

So, go sit in your quiet space. Breathe. And answer this question...

The day you decided that writing was your mission, your hope for the future, what was it that made your heart burst with excitement?

For me? I've been trying to get back to that moment for the last couple of weeks. I find that when I start to shake my head and doubt that I have what it takes to write for children, I go back to the day I realized writing was something I sincerely LOVED.

I remember I was in high school, and I was given a challenge to write a Picture Book. I had to create the story, the characters, the problem, and the solution ALL on my own. I know for a fact that THAT homework assignment was the only one I EVER finished early, and with so much love, care, and true passion. I remember I felt like my eyes had been opened. I felt as though if I didn't write something profound before my life on this earth was over, then I would never truly live. It was official...

I. HAD. TO. WRITE.

Passion isn't something that can be forced on a person. It comes from deep within. Writing, and I mean, good writing, comes naturally. Your creativity needs to exude from your heart.

So, as you ponder what it was that MADE you a writer, feel free to share. Let it be the inspiration to get you out of your writer's block, out of your funk, and get rid of your doubt. You cannot silence passion. Remember what got you here, and treasure it!


I look forward to what this blog might mean for you, and for other writers like us. Here's to the launch, and inspiring all to remember that writing is so much more than queries, pitches, sales, and royalties. More to come in the weeks ahead!

19 comments:

  1. OKAY!! Hitting the subscribe button right now! Love, Love, Love this!

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    1. Why, thank you!! Hope to keep you coming back!

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  2. I know the feeling! Thanks for sharing your big-bang moment. I always love seeing how people got their start.

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    1. Thank YOU for stopping by! I'm anxious to hear what it was that made others feel the same way. It's inspiring, all on its own!

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  3. Bethany -- Great idea for a weekly feature. Looking forward to seeing what you come up with each week for me to ponder.

    Thanks for sharing your story. I wish I would have had a PB writing assignment in high school. I didn't discover that I wanted to write for children until I read lots and lots of books to my children.

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  4. I remember very clearly driving home from my first regional SCBWI conference. I was so excited and full of energy and I thought, "What if I could feel like this every day?"

    That was my turning point.

    Great series!

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    1. Wow... I absolutely LOVE that thought and feeling, Julie! Way to go!

      And, a huge congrats to you on being a contributor on Katie Davis' ordeal! Sooo proud to know you!

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  5. Your Wednesday posts will be inspirational...looking forward to them, Bethany!

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  6. How wonderful that you knew so early in life what you wanted to do! And what a great assignment to get in high school. Wish I'd had a similar one!

    I had done bits and pieces of writing over the years, but one night several years ago (read 15 to 20 years ago) I was talking to my mother on the phone, and she said, "Why don't you write?" From that moment on, I have been working at my craft, and honing my skills, and becoming a writer. (Thanks, Mum!)

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  7. I always wanted to be a mother and a writer. I completely get what you're saying.

    I tagged your blog in a game of blog tag. Come over to http://katrinadelallo.blogspot.com/2012/02/blog-tag.html to get the rules. I hope you have fun!

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    1. Thank you!! I'll head over and check that out asap!

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  8. This is a great idea for a weekly series! I've written and illustrated my own books since I was wee, it was one of my favorite things to do. When I was older, I realized that my stories and art had the power to make people laugh and smile. That's when I knew that children's books was the place for me and I wanted to create art that kids would remember with happiness. A cheesy story, but a true one!

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    1. Cheesy? No! I love it! Creating art and stories for kids is a pure gift... And you've held that gift close for a long time, friend! Fantastic!

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  9. Bethany! I am needing some inspiration today! I am really looking forward to your uplifting words. GREAT idea and way to follow your passions. Thanks so much for sharing.:)

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    1. Glad I could help! And thank you!! Hopefully this will generate more ideas, for others!

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  10. I can't believe I missed this post :/ I was sick last week so I have that excuse, I guess.

    I've always loved drawing and when I was little I wanted to be a children's book illustrator. Unfortunately, that dream didn't pan out. But after reading to my own kids I knew I wanted to write for children. Even if it turned out to be only a hobbie, it's something I really enjoy doing. Why not stick with what makes you happy right?! I'm looking forward to Wednesdays here, great idea Bethany!

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