Tag: writing

AI for Writers: How to Use it Ethically

~ Brooke F. ~ Leave a comment

In a world teeming with AI-generated essays, AI-written novels, and even AI poetry (which, let’s be honest, reads like it was composed by a very earnest but deeply uninspired toaster), creatives everywhere are understandably wary. The existential crisis among writers is real.

I, too, have had my moments of wild optimism. AI seemed like such a useful tool! An endless supply of writing prompts? An easy way to get revision advice? Blog post title suggestions so I don’t have to stare at a blank screen in despair? Sign me up!

Oh, how naive I was.

I didn’t fully comprehend the sheer scope of AI misuse. AI-written books clogging up Amazon? Students submitting entire AI-generated essays as their own? As I watched the chaos unfold, I started to wonder: is there a way to use AI ethically as a writer? Or am I a hopeless fraud for even considering it?

After much reflection, I’ve come to this conclusion: AI and computers exist to do the boring stuff. The soul-sucking, time-wasting tasks that drain the joy from creativity. But the actual creating? That’s the part I want to hold onto. Because honestly, why would I want to shortcut the best part of writing? AI writing is often as bland as a bowl of plain oatmeal. No sugar. No nuts.

AI feels less like a foe or friend and more like a really boring intern/writing assistant in my humble opinion.

So, in the interest of making peace with AI (and ensuring it remains a helpful assistant rather than an artistic overlord), I’ve compiled a list of ways writers can use AI ethically and usefully without sacrificing their creative souls.

1. Character Development

Stuck on how your main character would react in a specific scenario? Describe them to AI and ask how they might logically respond. Or, better yet, throw them into a random situation and see what AI suggests and then tweak it until it actually feels like your character. Develop it. Run with it. Think of it as a digital version of those acting exercises where you “become” your character so to speak.

2. Synonyms: Because “Thingamajig” is too vague I guess

We’ve all been there: that word is right there on the tip of your tongue, but your brain has checked out for the day. AI can help you find the perfect synonym without forcing you into a three-hour thesaurus rabbit hole (which somehow always ends with you reading about the etymology of “spork”).

3. World-Building Without the Headache

Need to develop a magic system? A fictional government? A convincing but totally made-up economy? AI won’t write it for you, but it will ask you logical, specific questions that help flesh out your world. Think of it as a world-building coach, but not a ghostwriter.

4. Writing Exercises: When Your Muse is on Vacation

AI is great for generating writing prompts and exercises when you need a little jumpstart. You can take what it gives you and twist it into something uniquely yours. Don’t use it to write the whole thing. Use it to springboard you into your own little writing project.

5. Helping You Tackle That One Problem Paragraph

Ever stare at a paragraph, knowing it’s bad but not quite sure why? AI can help you pinpoint what’s off. Whether it’s tense shifts, awkward phrasing, overuse of adverbs (my personal Achille’s heel). It’s something akin to a second pair of eyes giving your work a quick glance, minus the existential dread of asking another human for feedback. (Though, personally, a real human is needed to fully help you realize the full potential of your work but maybe I’m just stuck in the stone age.)

6. Titling: The Worst Part of Writing (Fight Me)

I am a “working title” kind of person. If left to my own devices, all my drafts would be titled “Ugh, I’ll Fix This Later.” AI helps me generate blog post and chapter title ideas so I can get back to the fun part—actually writing the thing.

Final Thoughts

AI isn’t evil, but it also isn’t a replacement for creativity. It’s a tool. It’s a tool that, when used wisely, can make writing easier without making it soulless. Let’s not let it take over. After all, writing is about creating, not just generating words.

Harvest’s End: A Little Autumn-y short story

~ Brooke F. ~ 6 Comments

I realize this isn’t the correct season to post this but I found it perusing my post archives and realized I never posted it. So, here’s a little bit of Halloween in March. Hope you enjoy! ❤

~*~

“Look, it’s a full moon tonight,” said Tim, holding the freshly carved pumpkin.

“Yep,” replied his sister, Emma. “It’s perfect for Halloween.”

Tim placed the pumpkin on the porch, the candlelight flickering through the carved eyes and mouth. He stepped back and admired his handiwork. The pumpkin looked alive, eager to be part of the night’s festivities.

“What should we name him?” asked Tim.

Emma examined the pumpkin’s toothy grin. “He looks like an Evan.”

Tim wrinkled his nose. “That’s too human.”

“Well, Jack is too cliché,” Emma sighed. “How about Casper? That sounds Halloween-y.”

“Casper was a ghost,” Tim objected. “This pumpkin is orange.”

The twins thought hard until Tim suggested, “What about Rusty?”

This satisfied them both. “Rust it is,” Emma conceded with a nod.

And so his name was Rusty. Rusty felt fortunate to have a name, unlike the smaller pumpkin stationed on the other side of the door, which had been carved by their parents. The twins didn’t even seem to notice the other pumpkin before going back inside to work on their Halloween costumes. It didn’t bother the other pumpkin; both knew they had a job to do.

As the evening fell, Rusty began to feel the warmth of the candle inside him. The flame grew stronger, casting eerie shadows across the porch. The nameless pumpkin had told him about the children dressed in costumes that would soon arrive, looking for treats. Rusty was ready to shine his light and help them find their way their way to the candy bowl.

The first group of trick-or-treaters appeared at the end of the driveway, their eyes lighting up at the sight of Rusty’s glow. They approached the porch, chattering amongst themselves. Rusty felt his heart swell with joy as they exclaimed over his grinning face. One little girl, dressed as a fairy, reached out to touch his carved cheek, her eyes wide as the warmth felt the candle’s warmth against her fingers.

“This one’s got a nice smile,” she told her mother before turning her attention to the selection of candy bars that was being offered. It would be the most important decision of the night after all.

The twins had gone all out with the decorations this year, with spider webs stretching from the porch railings and a scarecrow standing guard over the pumpkin duo. Rusty watched as the children made their selections from the candy bowl, comparing their choices to the others’. The nameless pumpkin was silent beside him, a comforting weight as the night grew darker. Rusty promised himself he’d remember this night forever.

But, like everything, Halloween came and went, and the night passed.

The trick-or-treaters had thinned out, leaving only the occasional straggler to knock on the door. Rusty felt the chill of the night as the candles inside them began to die out, leaving him in darkness. As the warmth of the flame disappeared, he felt strangely hollow, missing its warmth.

In the days that followed, Rusty noticed his smile wasn’t as bright anymore. The edges of his eyes began to sink, and his cheeks grew less plump. When the children passed by without a second glance, he felt a heaviness settle in his chest. He no longer had the joy of trick-or-treaters tromping by but now had to content himself with watching the twins leave for school. Quietly, Rusty hoped the twins would remember him and reignite his candle once more. They did not.

One morning, Rusty mustered the courage to ask the nameless pumpkin next to him, “Why am I changing?”

The nameless pumpkin looked at him with a knowing gaze. “It’s called ‘rotting,’ my friend,” he said gently.

“What’s rotting?”

The nameless pumpkin took a deep, slow breath, his expression calm and tone even. “It’s what happens to all of us after Halloween. We were picked from the patch, carved, and filled with light to bring joy to others. But now, our purpose is fading.”

Rusty’s heart sank. He didn’t want to fade. He enjoyed being the beacon on the porch, the focal point of the twins’ Halloween wonderland. “Can’t we do something to stop it?” he asked.

The nameless pumpkin’s wrinkled eyes looked sad. “This is the natural cycle of our existence. After we’ve served our purpose, we return to the earth. It’s the way of things.”

Rusty stared into the night, the flickering memory of his flame bright in his mind. But what happens after? Will anyone remember us?  The idea of disappearing into the ground frightened him, but each day, he could feel his form softening, his grin losing shape, and his light growing dimmer.

One evening, Emma came out to the porch with a sad look on her face. She picked up Rusty, examining him closely. “You’re not looking too good, buddy,” she said as she examined his softening smile and dark moldy spots. Tim joined her, and together they decided it was time to say goodbye to the pumpkins that had served their purpose and brought joy to many children.

They carried Rusty and his companion to the backyard, where they had a small compost pile, placing the two pumpkins gently onto the soft mound. “This is where we go when we’re done,” whispered the nameless pumpkin. “This is our graveyard.”

Rusty felt the cool earth beneath him, in stark contrast to the warmth of his candle—a memory now distant. He watched as the twins’ footsteps faded into the house, leaving him and the nameless pumpkin to the quiet night and the cold ground.

Days turned into weeks, and the porch grew quieter. The decorations were packed away, and the only visitors to the backyard were squirrels and birds. Rusty felt a strange kinship with his silent companion as they softened and shrank together. Just as he felt his form begin to disappear, the nameless pumpkin whispered, “Look.”

Beside him, a tiny sprout pushed its way through the soil, unfurling a pair of delicate green leaves. “We’re not gone. We’ve just changed. Our light has dimmed, but we’re giving way to life.”

Rusty stared at the sprout, a mix of confusion and wonder filling him. The idea of being part of something bigger brought him comfort. He watched the plant grow stronger, its green tendrils weaving through the remnants of their former selves.

As the days grew shorter and the air crisper, Rusty felt his body softening more, his shell collapsing inward. Yet, his friend’s words remained clear in his mind. “Even in our end, we are the beginning.”

Rusty felt his essence seeping into the soil. The thought didn’t scare him as much anymore. He surrendered to the earth at last, watching the fall leaves drift around him in a flurry of color. It was a peaceful end.

Winter turned to spring, bringing sunshine, birds, and blossoms.

One warm autumn afternoon, Tim and Emma found a tiny pumpkin sprout stretching up from their compost pile. Over the course of summer, this sprout grew into a small pumpkin plant, its vines stretching out, claiming the space that had once belonged to Rusty and the nameless pumpkin. By October, it bore small, round pumpkins—a miniature reflection of those before.

When Halloween came, the twins selected the largest pumpkin from the patch. “This one,” Tim said, holding it up. “Nice and plump.”

Emma nodded in agreement. They carried it inside and laid out their carving tools. That night, as they finished their work and placed a candle inside, the pumpkin’s grin grew wide as the flickering flame filled him with warmth. It was an almost familiar warmth.

A Review of Logseq: Is it a Valid Obsidian Alternative?

~ Brooke F. ~ Leave a comment

So, I heard all the hype about Obsidian. Yaknow, the digital brain-builder everyone’s (or at least my side of the internet) raving about. Naturally, I was intrigued by the idea of weaving a web of my thoughts into an interconnected masterpiece. But then I saw the price tag. I wasn’t exactly thrilled to part with my money just yet.

So after a little googling I came up with Log Seq. It’s the free alternative that claims to do the same thing. By the same thing I mean build a network of your thoughts like some sort of mind-map wizardry. So, I took it for a spin for a week, all in the name of saving a buck (or several). Here’s how it went.

The Good Stuff

First off, Log Seq is phenomenal. Like, truly fascinating. The ability to link thoughts, ideas, and random musings into this complex web of information is seriously cool. I started from scratch, and by the end of the week, I had an impressive digital mind-map that was organized based off of tags. My main tags were #poetry, #science, #writing, #religion.

The Not-So-Good Stuff

There is only one thing that I really think hurts the log seq experience. Log Seq has no app. And while typing on my laptop is fine when I’m already sitting at it, capturing thoughts throughout the day? Not so much. I don’t know about you, but I have a knack for coming up with my best ideas at the most inconvenient times. Like, standing in line for coffee or pretending to listen during a meeting. Without an app to sync my thoughts, I was left trying to remember everything until I got back to my laptop… which is like trying to carry water in a colander. To well that’s reaaaally far away. An unneccessary metaphor I know. It’s just a funny mental image.

The Verdict

So, would I recommend Log Seq? Definitely. Especially if you’ve got the discipline to sit down and dump your brain at the end of the day. If not, you might be out of luck until they roll out an app. But overall, it’s an incredible tool with a ton of potential. I might just keep using it (at least until my wallet decides Obsidian is worth it).

Oh, and as promised, here’s my brain-web after a week of using Log Seq.

So, what do you think? Have you tried Log Seq or Obsidian? Do you have any other alternatives I should check out? Drop a comment below!

okay byeeee

Why You Need a “Second Brain” (And the Best Apps to Build One)

~ Brooke F. ~ 3 Comments

Look, my brain is a chaotic place. If I had to describe it, I’d say it’s like an overstuffed filing cabinet, but maybe one that got shook up in a move? Thoughts, ideas, grocery lists, and random existential crises. It’s all jumbled together, friends. I tried keeping track of everything in a planner, in my Notes app, and sometimes in an actual, physical notebook. Unsurprisingly, is still felt as if I was forgetting too much. Mostly writing ideas, maybe a grocery list item here and an appointment there.

That’s when I started doing some digging into the concept of a “second brain.” It’s basically a note-taking system where you offload all your thoughts, ideas, tasks (basically everything) into one organized digital space. The idea is to free up your actual brain for, you know, thinking, rather than frantically trying to remember where you wrote down that brilliant idea at 3 a.m.

I’ve only been looking into this for about a week and a half but here’s what I’ve found as far as notetaking/second brain apps go. I’ll give you a quick summary of each based off of my research and some quick clicking around and experimentation plus my personal opinion of each. Though, I WILL mention that I think each has it’s own strengths and may tailor itself to a different type of brain than mine. So, as cliche as it is, I’ll say to each their own.

Logseq: The Powerhouse for Outliners

If you’re a fan of bullet points, outlines, and linking your thoughts like a digital spider web, Logseq is your new best friend. It’s a free (this is the word that convinced me), open-source app that lets you create daily notes, build outlines, and interlink ideas like crazy. I love it because it’s local-first (meaning my notes are stored on my device, not in the cloud), and it uses plain text files, so I never have to worry about losing my data. Plus, the bi-directional linking lets me see how my thoughts connect over time—perfect for writing projects and organizing ideas. It is a little bare bones I will say and in using it, I definitely wish they had an app so I could sync all my ideas that I take on my phone to my software on my computer. Oh well, can’t have everything.

Why I Love It:

  • Local storage and privacy.
  • Bi-directional linking (think digital mind maps).
  • Outlining is its superpower.
  • It’s free!

Who It’s For:
People who love structure, outlines, and organizing their thoughts in a non-linear way. Writers, researchers, and obsessive list-makers. And for those of us who don’t want to spend money but want something like Obsidian minus the subscription. Which, speaking of which…

Obsidian: The Mind Mapper

Obsidian is the cool kid on the block that everyone’s talking about. It’s all about connecting your ideas with backlinks and visualizing them as a network of thoughts. If you’ve ever wanted to see how your ideas relate to each other like a digital conspiracy board (red strings and all), this is your app (MUCH like Log Seq, like I said).

Why It’s Popular:

  • Graph view to visualize your notes and their connections.
  • Customizable with a ton of community-made plugins.
  • Markdown-based (plain text files for the win).
  • Has an app with across device syncing.

Who It’s For:
Visual thinkers who like seeing the bigger picture. Great for creative projects, research, and anyone who likes to link ideas together. But, as mentioned before, you have to subscribe for this service. If you’re okay with dropping some cash, this one definitely looks the cleanest of all the network based notetaking apps.

Evernote: The Veteran with All the Bells and Whistles

Ah, Evernote. It’s been around forever, and for good reason. It’s toolbox is incredibly diverse. You can save text notes, voice memos, images, web clippings, and even PDFs. It syncs across all devices, so you can access your notes anywhere. But there’s a catch: the free version is pretty limited, and the premium version isn’t cheap (sorry to keep mentioning money but if you’re something like me, you might not have money to burn).

What It’s Good At:

  • Capturing everything—text, voice, images, web clippings.
  • Powerful search features, including text within images.
  • Easy syncing across multiple devices.

Who It’s For:
People who need an all-in-one digital filing cabinet. If you’re constantly gathering information from different sources and want it all in one place, Evernote is your go-to. Just be okay with spending money.

Notion: The All-in-One Workspace

With Notion you can take notes, manage tasks, build databases, and even design a personal wiki. It’s visually appealing and highly customizable, but it can be overwhelming at first because of how much it can do. I tried it for a while, but it felt like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut (just a bit overkill). That said, some people absolutely swear by it for its flexibility and diversity.

What Makes It Stand Out:

  • Highly customizable pages and templates.
  • Collaborative features for team projects.
  • Can be used as a note-taking app, project manager, and even a personal wiki.

Who It’s For:
Power users who want everything in one place. Probably really awesome for someone who does a lot of computer work for their job. If you like customizing workflows and want your notes, tasks, and databases all in one app, Notion is your playground.

Which One’s Right for You?

Choosing a second brain is, as most things are, up to your own personal taste and what type of record keeping jives with your brain. If you love outlining and linking ideas, give Logseq or Obsidian a try. Want a digital Swiss Army knife? Notion’s your best bet. Need a reliable all-in-one solution with easy syncing? Go for Evernote. And if you want something simple, there is definitely no shame in using your phone notes.

Personally, Logseq has caught my eye and I will probably make a whole other post based off of my experience with it. But, if any of the other apps or programs have caught your fancy, why not give ’em a go?

Maybe it’s time to give your brain a break and get yourself a second one. Just a thought. Or maybe mine’s the only one that needs a breather. Either way, thanks for reading!

The Day Microsoft Word and I Broke Up (and How LibreOffice Became My Rebound)

~ Brooke F. ~ 3 Comments

Picture this: A snow day. A rare, magical off day gifted by the powers of winter. Naturally, I did what any introverted poet would do—I decided to spend my day cozied up, writing for my dearest poetry book draft. Dreams of metaphorical brilliance danced through my head as I opened my laptop and double-clicked on my Word document.

And then—BAM. A digital slap to the face.

I couldn’t access my own document. Why? Because my Microsoft Office license, previously covered by my college, had expired. Since I’m no longer a student (shoutout to adulthood and its many expenses), this wasn’t a complete shocker. But the nerve. I was at least a little offended.

Out of curiosity, I decided to see how much it would cost to renew. I figured it couldn’t be that bad. I mean, it’s just a word processor, right?

Y’all. Ten bucks a month. A hundred dollars a year.

FOR WORDS.

Now, I’d like to think I’m a reasonable person, but this was some highway robbery. And the kicker? I couldn’t even open my original document unless I coughed up the cash. Sure, I could access it through the online version of Word, but that interface looked like it had a midlife crisis. Crowded, clunky, and as intuitive as a brick wall. And syncing it? Ha. Not happening.

That’s when I hit my limit. I had a poetry book to write, snow day vibes to enjoy, and I wasn’t about to let corporate greed ruin my creative flow. Determined, I opened a new tab and searched for alternatives. That’s when I met my new best friend: LibreOffice.

Let me tell you, LibreOffice is basically Microsoft Office but without the corporate handcuffs. It’s free, offline, and lets me open my own documents without asking for my credit card information. Revolutionary, right?

The best part? It felt just like old-school Word. Simple. Functional. No frills, no nonsense. And, most importantly, no monthly payments draining my bank account. I could write my poetry in peace, snow softly falling outside, without feeling like I had to sell a kidney just to access my own words.

So, here we are. Microsoft Word and I? We’re done. I’ve moved on. LibreOffice and I are getting along great, thank you very much. And the moral of the story? If a company tries to hold your words hostage for a hundred bucks a year, maybe it’s time to break up and find someone (or something) better.

LibreOffice, you’re the real MVP. And Microsoft? Yeah, we’re never, ever getting back together.

Trying Something New Every Day for a Week: A Mini Adventure

~ Brooke F. ~ 5 Comments

I’m a big believer in the idea that small adventures make life more interesting. So, I decided to challenge myself to try something new every day for a week. These would be little things that would shake up my routine and maybe introduce me to a new favorite. So, without further ado, here’s how it went:

Day 1: Sushi Exploration

I’ve had sushi before, but I wouldn’t call myself a sushi connoisseur. My local deli recently started making a variety of sushi rolls, so I figured, why not? I quickly learned that I do not like sour-tasting sauces (I wasn’t expecting it to be so….tangy?), but I loved the spicy shrimp roll. A new go-to? Possibly. The experience overall was a 3/5.

Day 2: A New Coffee Spot

I’m always down for a new coffee experience, so I visited a café called White Bison. Cozy vibes? Check. Good coffee? Absolutely. I ordered a toffee latte, which was perfectly sweet and nutty. The coffee shop also had a nice, homey atmosphere and even had an upper floor. I can imagine it would be a great study spot.

Day 3: Discovering a New Music Artist

Music discovery is one of my favorite low-effort, high-reward experiences. This time, I stumbled upon Sara Groves, a Christian songwriter and composer. Her lyricism is chef’s kiss, and my favorite song so far is Lay It Down. Highly recommend if you like thoughtful, faith-filled lyrics.

Day 4: Trying Matcha

I finally gave matcha a shot. It’s one of those things that everyone seems to love, so I had to see what the hype was about. Verdict? It’s good…but only if I drown it in vanilla cold foam and sweetener. Otherwise, it tastes a little too earthy for me. Something akin to mowing the lawn with your mouth open. I’d love to learn to make it my sweet way at home and maybe swap it up a bit so I’m not always consuming an ungodly amount of coffee.

Day 5: Testing a New Recipe

I decided to bake cheddar and ham muffins, and let me tell you, friend, they were way better than expected. Soft, cheesy, savory, and surprisingly filling. These might just be my new favorite breakfast meal prep. This was probably my 5/5 experience for the week.

Overall, this little experiment was a fun reminder that trying new things doesn’t have to be dramatic or life-changing. Even the smallest discoveries such as a new coffee order or a song that resonates—adds richness to everyday life. Who knows? Maybe I’ll keep this streak going! It’s been a fun little challenge to brighten up my now regular 9-5 work schedule. It’s easy to let time get away from you when you work a regular job I’m realizing. This little challenge felt like it helped me be more present and make better use of my time (be more experimental in small ways).

So! Now I’m going to turn the question to you, dear audience! What’s something new you’ve tried lately?

Choosing the Right Web Builder for Your Blog

~ Brooke F. ~ Leave a comment

Choosing the Right Web Builder for Your Blog: My Honest Thoughts on WIX, WordPress, Blogspot, and Tumblr

When it comes to starting a blog, one of the first and most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right platform to build it on. As a writer who’s tinkered with several web builders, I’ve learned that not all platforms are created equal. Each one comes with its own quirks, benefits, and, of course, irritations. Here’s my take on four popular web builders: WIX, WordPress, Blogspot, and Tumblr. Below you will find my opinions of each web builder and what it’s rightful ranking is (by means of a 5 star-system).

Alright, I believe this should be fairly straight forward, so let’s get on with it, shall we?

1. WIX – 3 Stars

WIX is often marketed as a “drag-and-drop” dream. And I’ll admit, the platform is visually appealing with its sleek templates and easy customization options. If you want your blog to look like an art gallery, WIX might seem like the perfect choice.

But here’s the catch: unless you’re willing to pay for their premium plan, good luck showing up on any search engines. SEO (search engine optimization) isn’t exactly WIX’s strong suit without opening your wallet. Plus, while the interface is simple, it feels almost too simple, like it’s holding back features you might need for a more robust blog.

For casual bloggers who aren’t worried about visibility, WIX could work. But if you’re looking to grow an audience organically, I’d suggest looking elsewhere. You may have a lovely site but one that no one sees (unless you want to pay a fair bit of moolah).

2. WordPress – 4 Stars

WordPress is the overachiever of web builders, and honestly, I’m impressed. With its detailed customization options and extensive plugin library, WordPress has everything you need to make a blog that feels truly your own.

What really makes WordPress shine is that it (mostly) doesn’t penalize you for staying on the free plan. You can still drive traffic to your site and enjoy a surprising amount of creative freedom without feeling like you’re missing out. Personally, I’m not a premium user, and I’ve been more than happy with what the platform offers.

However, the learning curve can be a little steep for beginners. WordPress has so many options that it can feel overwhelming at first. But once you get the hang of it, the possibilities are endless. Unless you want to add plugins. In which case, you’re out of luck on that free plan. It loses at least a half of a star from this alone. But, overall, I really can’t complain too much. I mean, here I am!

3. Blogspot – 2.5 Stars

Blogspot, also known as Blogger, is like the plain vanilla of web builders. It’s fine. It’s functional. It does the job. But does it spark joy? Not really.

The platform is overly simple, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing if you’re looking for a no-frills blogging experience. However, it can feel limiting compared to other platforms. Also, unless you’re willing to pay for a custom domain, you’re stuck with a URL that looks like it was generated by a cat walking across a keyboard.

If you’re just dipping your toes into blogging and don’t want to overthink it, Blogspot might be worth a try. Just don’t expect it to wow you. It’s basic. It’s fine.

4. Tumblr – 3.5 Stars

Ah, Tumblr. The home of fandoms, memes, and chaotic energy. If you’re planning to use Tumblr as a blog builder, it’s important to understand the platform’s culture. Unlike other web builders, Tumblr relies heavily on its algorithm and community engagement to drive traffic.

This means you can’t just sit back and hope people will find your blog—you’ve got to get involved. Reblog posts, follow similar accounts, and interact with your followers. It’s a bit of a commitment, but it can be fun if you’re already familiar with Tumblr’s vibe.

The downside? Tumblr isn’t exactly a professional blogging platform. It’s more suited for casual, niche interests than for polished, professional blogs. That said, if you’re blogging for fun and want to connect with a specific community, Tumblr might surprise you.

Final Thoughts

Every platform has its pros and cons, and the right one for you depends on your goals. If you’re serious about growing your blog and don’t mind a bit of a learning curve, WordPress is the way to go. For those who value aesthetics and simplicity, WIX might be worth a shot (just keep SEO in mind). Blogspot is fine for beginners, and Tumblr is a unique option for those who want to blog within an existing community (works great if you have a very specific niche or media-based lean).

At the end of the day, blogging is about sharing your voice and connecting with readers. Choose the platform that feels right for you and start creating. After all, the best blog is the one you actually create.

New Year’s Mantras for a New Season

~ Brooke F. ~ 2 Comments

Every year, I’ve set goals, made resolutions, and tried to will myself into change. I will add that sometimes it works! (And sometimes it doesn’t.) But this year I wanna do something a tad bit different. Instead of adding more to-do lists and lofty goals, I am instead going to (attempt to) ground myself with a few simple mantras: words I can carry with me into this next chapter of my life.

1. Learn, Learn, Learn

I started my career as an environmental scientist this year, and let me tell you, it’s a humbling experience to realize how much I don’t know. There’s training to complete, processes to understand, and a whole world of knowledge to absorb. But instead of letting the learning curve overwhelm me, I’m going to try and embrace it.

“Learn, learn, learn” isn’t just about my job too. It’s also about staying curious in everything. It’s about asking questions, making mistakes, and knowing that growth doesn’t happen overnight. Additionally, I want it to serve as a gentle reminder that I don’t have to be perfect. The learning process involves failure and it is impossible to skate around. While this concept hurts my perfectionistic, failure-fearing soul, it is something I simply need to continue to work towards getting past.

2. Do the Thing

This one’s for my poetry and my perfectionism. For too long, I’ve held back. (Camera cut to me editing endlessly, second-guessing myself, and letting fear keep me from sharing my writing). But this year, I’m done waiting for the perfect moment or the perfect version of anything.

“Do the thing” is about action. It’s hitting “publish” on that blog post. It’s sharing a poem without worrying how it will be received. It’s letting creativity flow without overthinking it. Fear might still be there, but this year, it doesn’t get to win.

3. Enjoy the Life Phase

If there’s one habit I know I have, it’s looking forward into the future. I do this in every possible way. I look to the next step, the next milestone, and the next season of life. I’ve always been someone with one eye on the future, dreaming of what’s to come. But in doing so, I often miss what’s right in front of me.

“Enjoy the life phase” is my reminder to slow down. To appreciate the small joys of where I am: my new job, my cozy home, my two cats (who are as chaotic as ever). I don’t want to rush this time just because it feels like a stepping stone to something bigger. I want to look back and remember how full and good this season was—even with its growing pains.

4. Show Up for Yourself

This is a mantra I’m adding to the list because I think we all need it. “Show up for yourself” means being your own cheerleader when things get hard. It’s about taking care of your mind, your body, and your heart. Showing up looks different every day. Some days it might mean eating a real lunch instead of chips from the pantry, going for a walk, or saying no to something you don’t have energy for. Whatever it is, it’s a promise to treat yourself like someone worth showing up for.

5. Let Life Be Messy

I’m someone who loves a plan. I like knowing what comes next, how it’ll happen, and where it’s all leading. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that life rarely fits neatly into plans.

“Let life be messy” is permission to let things unfold as they will. It’s accepting that some days will be chaotic, some dreams will take longer, and some journeys will twist and turn in unexpected ways (and, again, that’s okay!). The messy parts are often where the magic happens, right?

These mantras are my anchors for the year ahead. They’re reminders to take things one step at a time, to be brave, to be present, and to let life happen as it comes.

If you’re feeling inspired, I’d love to hear what mantras you’re carrying into the new year. What words or phrases will guide you through this next season? Share them in the comments!

xoxo,

Brooke F.

A Review of Lex AI Writer

~ Brooke F. ~ 3 Comments

I have historically have had a really forgiving view of AI. I think it’s here to stay and that much is true, but as time has gone on, I have gravitated to a more critical view of AI content, specifically AI writing. I think it’s great for brainstorming when you’re on square 1 or perhaps outlining a blogpost (here is where I reveal that it is not uncommon for me to ask chatgpt for help with organizing blog posts, titling, and other such small tasks that allow me to focus on my blog post’s actual content). Heck, I think it’s maybe even good for writing filler text that allows you to move your story forward until you can return and fill it with something better and far more creative. But over the past year, I’ve really seen the quality of writing content being replaced with quantity and this is no doubt due to the rise of AI.

AI garbage books flood KDP and many so-called-writers are making tutorials on how you can shortcut the process of creating a story and avoid *gasp* writing! I think someday I’ll make a post on this in the future about how these pretend writers must not really enjoy the craft if they’re continuing to engineer ways to NOT write but now is not that time. Today, I’m here to talk about a specific AI writing platform known as LEX.

Lex AI Writing Platform: A Powerful Tool with a Hidden Catch

Lex is one of the most intriguing AI writing tools I’ve explored. With a wide array of functions, it offers a startlingly diverse set of tools. I could see Lex catering to writers across various disciplines due to this diversity, whether you’re drafting blog posts, brainstorming story ideas, or simply fighting off writer’s block. However, as with any tool of this caliber, its strengths come with a critical caveat. But we’ll get there shortly. First, an introduction to Lex’s toolbox is in order.

A Brief Overview of Lex’s Tools

One of the few positives I will say is Lex impresses with its thoughtful organization and user-friendly interface. The platform boasts features designed to streamline the writing process. Maybe a little too streamlined, but again, I’m getting ahead of myself. The tools and functions are as follows:

  • Idea Generation: It helps writers overcome blank-page syndrome with prompts and suggestions.
  • Continuity Tools: Lex can pick up where you left off, offering full paragraphs based on the context you provide it.
  • Editing Suggestions: It attempts to analyze tone, grammar, and structure to help refine your writing.
  • Customization: You can tweak Lex’s settings to better fit your style or project goals. Probably the most impressive and useful tool in my opinion.

For writers seeking an all-in-one productivity aid, Lex delivers. It’s particularly helpful for outlining or fleshing out ideas quickly. I could see Lex being a useful tool in brainstorming or drafting stages when used wisely. However, we’re going to move on to my main concern with Lex and most Ai writing assistants as a whole.

RIP Individuality

While Lex offers remarkable utility, my primary concern lies in what tools like this mean for the art of writing itself being the erosion of individual style.

When used sparingly, Lex is a fantastic collaborator. Keyword being “sparingly”. How many people will use it sparingly? The temptation to rely on AI for large swaths of text is undeniable, but in doing so, we risk losing the unique voices that define good writing.

To illustrate this concern, I experimented with Lex by beginning a short story:

My opening line:
“Deep in the recesses of an experimental laboratory, rows of cages can be found.”

Lex’s continuation:
“Within these cages, a colony of felines reside. These are no ordinary cats, however. They are the subjects of a groundbreaking experiment, where scientists seek to unravel the mysteries of genetic manipulation. With each passing day, the cats undergo a series of tests and procedures, their DNA meticulously analyzed and altered. The researchers are driven by a singular goal: to create a new breed of cat, one that possesses enhanced abilities and traits beyond the scope of their natural counterparts.”

On the surface, this continuation isn’t bad—it’s clear, grammatically sound, and flows logically. However, it’s unmistakably AI-generated. The tendency to “tell rather than show” is glaring. Instead of inviting readers into the story through evocative imagery or nuance, Lex provides a clinical summary, flattening the narrative.

This paragraph reads more like a report than an actual story, and, while serviceable, it lacks the depth and personality of human storytelling. Such patterns, if adopted uncritically, could homogenize creative writing, sacrificing artistry for efficiency. I have yet to see any AI writer tackle this concern successfully. Everything a computer spits out tends to sound the same or very similar to each other: bland, uncreative, and report-y. AI tends to be trained on articles and educational resources after all so no surprise there.

Conclusion

Lex is a powerful tool that can be a game-changer for writers, offering diverse features and has a great organization and presentation of said tools. For brainstorming, outlining, and rough drafting, perhaps it’s worth a try. But the ability to write large sections of text quickly can also be its biggest drawback and churn up a lot of concern.

Overall, I think as we incorporate AI into the writing process, we must remain vigilant and oh-so-cautious. Writing is more than putting words on a page despite what school might have taught us. It’s about crafting a voice, an atmosphere, and an experience for readers. Tools like Lex should be wielded with care, enhancing human creativity rather than replacing it. For now, Lex is an impressive companion but ABSOLUTELY not a replacement for the writer’s pen.

Thanks for taking the time read and take care, friends!

Unique Gift Ideas for the Writer in Your Life

~ Brooke F. ~ 6 Comments

Finding the perfect gift for the writer in your life can be as complex… annoying. I say this as a writer. It is very common that someone doesn’t know what to get me so I somehow end up with a tower of empty journals and an overflowing desk cup filled with new pens. I understand, it can be annoying to buy for us and sometimes one doesn’t know where to start when getting something thoughtful for the word-weaver in their family or friend group. Writers are often particular about their tools and tastes, but there’s a world of thoughtful, creative gifts beyond the basics that will make them feel truly understood. Here’s a guide to inspire your holiday shopping for the wordsmith you adore.

The Basics (But Make Them Fancy)

  1. Pens:
    Writers love pens, but gifting them a luxury pen—like a Lamy fountain pen or a weighted rollerball—can elevate their note-taking experience. Bonus points if you include a refill set in their favorite ink color!
  2. Journals:
    A writer can never have too many journals. Opt for a unique twist, such as leather-bound notebooks, journals with prompts, or eco-friendly options made from recycled materials.
  3. Books on Writing:
    Classics like On Writing by Stephen King or The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron are staples, but consider books on niche writing topics or even beautiful annotated versions of their favorite novels.

Step It Up: Gifts That Show You Truly Get Them

  1. Subscription Boxes for Writers:
    There are subscription services like Scribbler or The Writer’s Box that deliver curated goodies, writing prompts, and insider tips from published authors every month.
  2. Customized Writer’s Toolkit:
    Assemble a personalized kit with items like sticky notes, page flags, highlighters, and correction tape. Include a pouch or box engraved with their name or a quote about writing.
  3. Noise-Canceling Headphones or White Noise Machine:
    Whether they thrive in silence or need the soothing sound of rain, a tool to manage their audio environment can be invaluable for focused writing sessions.
  4. Specialty Coffee or Tea:
    Many writers are fueled by caffeine. Look for unique blends or quirky mugs (a typewriter-themed one, perhaps?). Add in a high-quality milk frother for the latte-loving wordsmith.
  5. Bookends or Shelf Accents:
    Help them organize their beloved writing books or display their work-in-progress stack with quirky bookends shaped like typewriters, quills, or punctuation marks.

Truly Unique Ideas for the Writer Who Has It All

  1. Custom-Made Book Cover Art:
    Writers with published or soon-to-be-published works will swoon over framed custom cover art of their book or even a faux cover design for their work-in-progress.
  2. A Writing Retreat Voucher:
    Gifting a weekend at a cozy cabin or a spot in a writing retreat program can give them the solitude and inspiration they need.
  3. Quirky Desk Accessories:
    Think vintage typewriter-inspired keyboards, literary-themed calendars, or even a tiny desktop hourglass to time writing sprints.
  4. Personalized Word Necklace or Bracelet:
    Have their favorite word, their own name, or the title of their book engraved on a piece of jewelry.
  5. A Masterclass Subscription:
    Access to workshops by renowned authors like Neil Gaiman or Margaret Atwood can be an incredible resource and a dream come true for many writers.
  6. Unique Inspiration Tools:
    Try something like the Rory’s Story Cubes or a deck of writing prompt cards to help spark creativity.
  7. Gift a Domain Name:
    If they don’t already have one, buying them a domain for their writing blog or portfolio is an incredibly thoughtful and practical gift.
  8. Customized Wax Seal Kit:
    For writers who enjoy a touch of old-world charm, a wax seal kit with their initials or a literary-themed emblem adds a personal touch to letters or notes.

Stocking Stuffers for the Literary-Minded

  1. Literary-themed socks, tote bags, or pins
  2. Magnetic poetry kits
  3. Tiny pocket dictionaries or thesauruses
  4. Bookplates with their name on them
  5. Candles inspired by books or writing (like “Library” or “Freshly Sharpened Pencils” scents)

Of course, these gifts and their usefulness will vary from person to person. However, I think this list is a great starting point or sparking inspiration for that special writer in your life. Whether they’re a poet, novelist, or someone just discovering their voice, there’s something here for every writer to inspire them and remind them that their craft is worth celebrating.

What’s the most creative gift you’ve ever given (or received) as a writer? Let me know in the comments!