Tag: writing

How to Write a Good Short Story

~ Brooke F. ~ 4 Comments

Hey friends! Hope you’re doing well this evening. It’s chilly where I’m at and the roads are all iced over so I did college remotely today. It went well and I think I’m starting strong though it’s hard to say since I’ve only been able to attend one full day in person. The classes I’m in this semester are all writing classes since I’ve finished up all the science ones for my biology degree.

One class I’m taking this semester is known as Fiction and short stories. I’m taking this class for my creative writing minor (and for fun!) and because I’ve always struggled a bit with writing short stories. I have this awful habit of rabbit trailing and expanding where it is incredibly unnecessary. You can’t afford to do this in short stories especially. They kind of need to be…yaknow, short. It’s always been a struggle of mine. It’s actually rather intimidating to me to develop so much of a story in such a short amount of time.

This got me sort of thinking about all the elements that go into a strong short story. So, in the spirit of helping me figure out how I can write an effective short story myself, I decided to identify what exactly makes a GOOD short story.

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊStart with a Strong Idea˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Begin with a clear and intriguing concept. A short story doesn’t have the luxury of extensive development as previously mentioned, so choose a focused and powerful idea.

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊDevelop Memorable Characters˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Even in a short story, your characters should be distinct and memorable. Readers should connect with them or be intrigued by their qualities. Focus on their motivations and how they contribute to the plot.

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊEstablish a Strong Setting˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Set the scene effectively. While you may not have room for extensive world-building, provide enough details to immerse readers in the story. Use sensory details to evoke a sense of place.

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊCreate a Compelling Opening˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Grab your reader’s attention from the beginning. Open with a strong line, an intriguing situation, or a question that piques curiosity. The opening sets the tone for the entire story.

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊMaintain a Clear Plot Structure˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Short stories typically have a simpler structure than novels, but they still require a clear beginning, middle, and end. Develop a plot with a distinct conflict and resolution. Also consider carefully the motivations at play in your tale and how such motivations conflict with each other.

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊFocus on a Single Theme or Message˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Short stories are most effective when they have a central theme or message. Identify the core idea you want to convey and weave it into the narrative. Avoid trying to tackle too many themes in a short space. This can make your story seem scattered and unconnected.

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊShow, Don’t Tell˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

You’ve heard it a million times but I think it’s always worth reiterating. Don’t trick yourself into believing that you don’t have any time at ALL in a short story to provide clear imagery. Use vivid descriptions and action to show what’s happening rather than telling the reader. Engage the senses and create a visual and emotional experience.

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊBuild Tension˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Since you have limited space, build tension efficiently. Create conflict early on and escalate it steadily, leading to a satisfying resolution. Tension keeps readers engaged. Ask yourself “what is pulling my reader forward to finish my piece?”

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊCraft Dialogue Carefully˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Dialogue is a powerful tool in a short story. Make each line count, revealing character traits, advancing the plot, or adding atmosphere. Ensure that it feels natural and serves a purpose. You don’t have time to indulge in empty chatter between characters. Unless, of course, it’s in character (see Treebeard from The Lord of the Rings here. Though that reference may not be super accurate as The Lord of the Rings was hardly a short story.”

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊConsider the Ending˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

A short story’s ending should be impactful. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a twist, but it should leave a lasting impression. Consider the emotional resonance you want to achieve. What do you want to leave your readers with. What do you want them to think about upon your story’s end?

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊEdit Ruthlessly˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Or kill your darlings or whatever. Given the limited space, every word should contribute to the story. During the editing process, be ruthless in cutting unnecessary elements. Ensure that each sentence serves a purpose. If you’re anything like me, this may feel a little painful. I make the mistake of feeling each line is precious to me. Unfortunately, this is not the case and some decisions must be made to further the conciseness of the story.

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊSeek Feedback˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ

Share your short story with others and gather feedback. Other perspectives can provide valuable insights and help you identify areas that may need improvement.

Remember that brevity is key in a short story. Every element, from characters to plot points, should serve the overall narrative purpose. Experiment with different styles, voices, and themes to discover what works best for your story.

Phew. That was a lot. But I think making a concise list helped me work through what to focus on when writing for my class. Perhaps this list will help you too? Either way, thanks for taking the time to read! Thanks for stopping by!

What’s IN and What’s OUT

~ Brooke F. ~ 6 Comments

Its only 10 days into the new year so why not a fun little post talking about what trends are in and what are out in my opinion? After all, I’m clearly an authority on matters of current crazes and the desires of the masses! I’m obviously qualified as a 20-something college student who spend the majority of her time working or playing videogames from 20 years ago (The Wii and the N64 gaming system is where we peaked, guys), watching movies from 40 years ago and reading books from 50 years ago. Glad we’re all in agreeance here. So, without further and minimal explanation, here are trends that should burn in the fiery pits of the underworld (also known as what’s out).

What’s OUT:

Buying ingredients but never cooking

Calling myself out already? Seriously though, why do ingredients go bad to quickly? Sure, you might say its because fresh veggies aren’t loaded with preservatives, radioactivity, and Lord knows what else but man, its frustrating when I want to cook and that potato I bought a week ago has already sprouted a new plant.


Cheap soap

Because my skin in sensitive.


Grudges

Have I ever mentioned how bitter of a person I can be? Probably not, it rarely comes up in conversation but BOY, can I hold a grudge. Let’s not talk about the pointless hours I’ve spent ruminating about how people who are meanies can get their comeuppance. Perhaps its best such use of my time is left in 2023.


Cruddy socks that need to be replaced

Only saying this because I cleared out my sock drawer recently and it was a sad sight indeed. I need to make a little sock run, I ended up throwing out half of the socks I thought I could wear.


Plain coffee

Time to add syrups and sugars like real men.


Falling asleep to your phone/TV

Guilty as charged. The blue light does wonders for my sleep schedule as I’m sure you can imagine.


Minimalism

Gosh, why did we ever consider this a valid aesthetic? I’m raving against a very specific type of minimalism known as sad grey and sad brown. I’m just too addicted to my cute little trinkets.


6am alarms

I am not a morning person. Far too long I’ve tried to emmulate the “it girl” schedule but alas, twasn’t meant to be. How those girls get up before the crack of dawn, I’ll never know. They have my respect of course but I think I’m going to try for a little more balanced sleep schedule where I spend the last hour of my day cleaning and journaling and getting ahead as opposed to getting up an hour earlier to do such things.


Not complimenting people but still thinking it

I’m so bad about this sometimes. There’s a shortage of compliments out there however and I refuse to contribute to the problem any longer no matter what my social anxiety says.


The color grey

As mentioned before, I’m just not a fan of the sad grey aesthetic.

What’s IN:


Cream soda

Particularly in glass bottles. I used to love these because as Baptist child, I thought they looked like beer. Now, I know much better- they taste oh-so delicious and I don’t have enough cream soda in my life as is. Something that needs to clearly be fixed in the year of our Lord, 2024.


Cute coffee shops

These have always been in but they should remain so.


Taking walks everywhere

I’m a ghostly little victorian child and could use the vitamin D.


Impressionistic art/paintings

I just think they’re nice.


Gas station snacks

Just snacks but on a whole new level.


Retro games

Oldies but goodies.


Pasta

Any and all types of pasta. Alfredo, red sauce… I don’t care. I’m in my pasta arc and have been for the last 4 years.


Formal gowns for no reason

Who says you need a reason to feel like a princess? I’ll vacuum my apartment in a ballgown, just you watch.


Giving people the benefit of the doubt

Perhaps this circles back to the whole “grudges” thing. I’m attempting to move out of my Villain era and into my “Gracious” era.


Microwave popcorn

Stove-top is fun but also time consuming and sometimes messy if you make it like me. The anxiety I feel when pulling the lid off of the pot to dump the newly born popcorns into the bowl is unmatched.


Herb gardens

They smelly good.


Petting as many cats as possible

Listen, friends. I know we petted a lot of cats last year. But, this year, let’s strive to make last year look like rookie numbers. This year, we’re petting ALL THE CATS. (unless of course you’re allergic. I’m so sorry friend).


Body spray

It smelly good.


Changing bedding regularly

We’re not going to talk about how long I’d go without changing my sheets in the past. I cringe, dear sir. But that was the old me. And we refuse to acknowledge her.

So yeah! A pretty comprehensive list but feel free to talk in the comments about what trends we should leave in 2023 or what 2024 should consist of moving forward. I’d love to hear ya’ll’s thoughts.

Anyways, hope you had a happy holiday!


Writing Space Decor Tips

~ Brooke F. ~ 1 Comment

I wrote a post about this awhile back called “Ways to Brighten up Your Writing Space” and while I do still like that post and think it’s useful, I do want to create a more broad post on how you can go about creating a space that’s really your own. While a list of specific items you could use to decorate your spice is nice, I wanted to take a little step back and talk about other strategies you could consider employing to make your writing atmosphere that much more inspiring.

Creating a writer’s bedroom or a cozy little writing space involves designing an area that fosters creativity, focus, and comfort. =So here are a few things for you to think about as your decorating it.

1. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Cozy Reading Nook:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Design a comfortable reading corner with a plush chair or cozy bean bag, a soft throw blanket, and ample cushions. Add a small bookshelf or floating shelves for easy access to your favorite books.

2. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Inspiring Wall Art:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Decorate the walls with motivational quotes, literary-themed prints, or artwork that inspires creativity. Consider a large chalkboard or corkboard for jotting down ideas, outlines, or favorite quotes.

3. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊThink about your color Palettes: ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Choose a color scheme that promotes focus. Soft, neutral tones like beige, light gray, or muted blues and greens can create a calming atmosphere while bright, exciting colors like red and yellow may excite your brain into work mode. Pick whatever works for you.

4. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Personalized Bookshelves:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Arrange your bookshelves in an organized and visually pleasing manner. Mix books with personal items, decorative pieces, and plants to add warmth and personality.

5. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Comfortable Writing Desk:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Invest in a comfortable and functional writing desk. Make sure it’s spacious enough for your writing essentials, and consider a desk with drawers for extra storage.

6. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Task Lighting:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Install adequate task lighting on or near the writing desk to reduce eye strain. Adjustable desk lamps or wall-mounted lights can provide focused illumination for your writing space.

7. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Candles or Essential Oil Diffusers:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Create a calming atmosphere with scented candles or essential oil diffusers. Scents like lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus can enhance concentration and relaxation.

8. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Comfortable Bedding:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Opt for soft and comfortable bedding to ensure a good night’s sleep. A cozy bed with plush pillows and a warm throw can also serve as an additional reading or writing space.

9. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Bulletin Board or Pinboard:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

   – Install a bulletin board or pinboard near your desk to display notes, outlines, and visual inspirations. This can help you stay organized and keep important information easily accessible.

10. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Soft Area Rug:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

    – Place a soft area rug near your writing desk or reading nook to add warmth and texture to the room. This can make the space more inviting and comfortable.

11. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Nature-Inspired Elements:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

    – Integrate natural elements into your decor, such as potted plants, succulents, or small indoor trees. Nature-inspired decor can promote a sense of tranquility and creativity.

12. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Wall-Mounted Shelves:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

    – Install wall-mounted shelves above the desk or beside the bed to save space and showcase your favorite books, writing tools, and decorative items.

13. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Personalized Art and Memorabilia:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

    – Display personal artwork, awards, or items that hold sentimental value. Surrounding yourself with meaningful objects can enhance your connection to the space.

14. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Ambient Lighting:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

    – Use ambient lighting, such as string lights or a soft pendant light, to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Dimmable lights can be adjusted to suit different moods and tasks.

15. ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Noise-Canceling Elements:˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

    – Consider adding noise-canceling elements like heavy curtains or a comfortable chair with sound-absorbing upholstery to create a quieter and more focused environment.

Remember to personalize the space with items that inspire you and make you feel comfortable. A writing space should be a retreat that encourages creativity and provides a peaceful sanctuary for your writing endeavors.

And What Are We Praying to?

~ Brooke F. ~ 1 Comment

“Stop worshipping answers,” the wise ones declare,
In the quiet of wisdom, breathe the open air.
For truth is a river, winding, untamed,
In the dance of questions, knowledge is named.

In the hush of the cosmos, where mysteries reside,
The seeker finds solace, on truth’s gentle tide.
Not in rigid doctrines or dogmas confined,
But in the ebb and flow of the curious mind.

Let queries unfurl like petals at dawn,
In the garden of wonder, where wisdom is drawn.
Each puzzle, a thread in the fabric of thought,
A tapestry woven, in questions, we’re taught.

The stars in their silence, the oceans profound,
Whisper the secrets that answers can’t sound.
For the essence of knowing is not in the end,
But the journey through questions, a lifelong friend.

So cease the relentless pursuit of the final,
Embrace the uncertainty, the enigma, the primal.
In the chapel of wonder, let questions be sung,
The hymn of the curious, forever young.

Writer’s Bucket List Inspiration

~ Brooke F. ~ 1 Comment

Creating a bucket list as a writer can be a wonderful way to set goals, and really challenge yourself as a writer. It can also push you to try different things that you wouldn’t otherwise which, overall, can help you hone your craft of word weaving! So, all that being said, I’ve come up with a few suggested writer’s bucket list items for inspiration. This list is good if you don’t know where to start when making your lofty writing goals.

1. Write a Novel

   Challenge yourself to complete a full-length novel, exploring a genre or theme you’re passionate about.

2. Attend a Writing Workshop or Retreat

   Immerse yourself in a writing workshop or retreat to learn from other experienced writers. You can also receive feedback, and connect with fellow creatives. This can also add to your sense of writing community and (as someone who has participated in a few workshops) motivate you to move forward with your creative endeavors knowing you have people cheering you on.

3. Visit a Literary Landmark

   Travel to a location with literary significance, whether it’s a famous author’s home, a library, or a setting from a beloved book.

4. Publish a Book

   Work towards getting your writing published, whether it’s through traditional publishing or self-publishing. Whatever floats your boat and fits with where you want to go with your work.

5. Participate in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo)

   Join the annual challenge to write a 50,000-word novel in the month of November. Admittedly, I have not participated in this event as time hardly allows me to these days (especially in college) but I have high hopes of being able to one day!

6. Write a Short Story Collection

   Compile a collection of short stories, perhaps exploring different themes or genres or sticking with something specific so that all the stories relate in some regard.

7. Complete any Writing Challenge really

   Take on a writing challenge, like writing a 100-word story every day for a month, to enhance your creativity and discipline. These can be both fun and extremely rewarding as you get in a lot of writing practice.

8. Learn a New Writing Style or Genre

   Step out of your comfort zone and explore a writing style or genre you haven’t tried before.

9. Create a Writing Space

   Design a dedicated and inspiring writing space that encourages creativity and focus. My personal writing space that I hope to create one day is a small study or library of sorts. I would just love to have a whole room dedicated to reading and writing. Due to today’s economy however and the unfortunate tax bracket I occupy, this has not yet been doable for me but it’s still on the bucket list.

10. Collaborate on a Project

    Work with another writer, illustrator, or creator on a collaborative project, such as a graphic novel or multimedia storytelling.

11. Attend a Book Launch or Literary Event

    Experience the excitement of a book launch or attend a literary event to meet authors and fellow book enthusiasts. I recently went to the Southern Festival of books in Nashville and it was magical. The environment was nothing like any other festival I have attended. Truly, I was amongst my kin.

12. Become a Beta Reader

    Offer your feedback and insights by becoming a beta reader for other writers. It’s a great way to engage with different writing styles and stories.

13. Start a Writing Blog or Podcast

    Share your writing journey, tips, and experiences through a blog or podcast to connect with a broader audience. I personally find blogging to be my chosen medium of communication in this regard but definitely don’t limit yourself to that if you want to experiment with different mediums of communication.

14. Write a Letter to Your Favorite Author

    Express your appreciation by writing a heartfelt letter to an author who has inspired you (if they’re alive of course. Unfortunately, many of my favorite writers are not among us any more).

15. Complete a Creative Writing Course

   Enroll in a creative writing course to enhance your skills and gain new perspectives on storytelling.

16. Write and Perform a Spoken Word Piece

   Craft a powerful spoken word piece and share it at an open mic night or poetry slam. This can be prose or poetry- it’s up to you. I have done this thanks to one of my writing professors at my college and while the experience was a little terrifying (public speaking is NOT my forte), it was overall a wonderful experience and I did, in fact, live to tell the tale. Use me as proof that anyone can do this.

17. Create a Writing Portfolio

    Develop a professional writing portfolio showcasing your best work and accomplishments. This is not only good practice but could be useful for you in the future if you ever start submitting to literary journals or other publications.

18. Read the Classics

    Explore classic literature across genres and time periods to broaden your literary knowledge and horizons.

Remember, a writer’s bucket list is a personal journey, and you can customize it based on your interests, aspirations, and the writing experiences you wish to explore. I hope you’ve found this list inspiring or at least mildly entertaining. Good luck on wherever your writing adventure takes you! I’m sure you’re gonna do great!

Octopus Themed Writing Prompts

~ Brooke F. ~ 4 Comments

This may seem like an oddly specific writing prompt post but I’ve been sitting through a few lectures on marine biology in college and I can’t get enough of these guys. So, enjoy this weird post that indulges my new found fascination with Octopi.

★Magic and Ink

A sea witch makes a grave mistake in a spell and turns herself into an octopus. She must find a way to reverse this spell but must go on some sort of quest or journey of self-discovery to do so. She is delighted to find, however, in this form, each of her tentacle’s host a different kind of magic. You can take it from here.

★Escape from the Aquarium

Two octopuses, plan their daring escape from the aquarium where they’ve been held captive. Describe their elaborate scheme, the challenges they face, and the freedom they long for in the open sea.

★Inky’s Inkcredible Adventure

Inky, a small octopus has a flair for creativity. Instead of using his ink for defense, he finds he can write stories and create pictures. He is generally made fun of by the other octopi but his writing endeavors take him places he and the other octopi could only imagine.

★Eight-Legged Thief

In a coastal town, rumors circulate about a mysterious octopus that steals shiny objects from the docks. Write a story from the perspective of the octopus, revealing its motivations and the unsuspecting friendships it forms with the humans it “steals” from.

★DnD but with Octopuses basically

Picture a team of adventurous octopuses exploring the depths of the ocean in search of hidden treasures. Each octopus has a unique skill. What challenges do they encounter, and what is their ultimate goal?

★Lost City of Eight Arms

Write a story about an explorer who stumbles upon an ancient underwater city that seems to have been built by octopuses. Uncover the mysteries of this octopus civilization and the artifacts left behind.

Picture Prompts for Writers

~ Brooke F. ~ 9 Comments

Any image is worth a thousand words as they say. I’m not sure if this exchange rate is exact or fixed but it’s worth trying, right?

Hope everyone is doing wonderfully this fine December. As for me, I am doing well. However, I made the mistake of blinking and now it is already the 19th and Christmas is right around the corner and pretty soon, before I know it, I’ll be back in school, taking on the second semester of my junior year.

I had a few goals to complete before break is over, one of which being to write a few short stories. Seems simple enough, right?

Hahaha….ahem.

At any rate, I find the most inspiration for my short story piece by taking a scroll through pinterest for any art or pictures that trigger those creative juices to get to work. I figured I might share a few as well as a link the pinterest board I’ve created primarily for picture prompts. The link for this board is here.

But if you’re feeling a bit reluctant, here are a few images to give you a taste for what I look for in my photo prompts.

We’re starting off strong. This cute lil guy is actually a knick-knack/snail terrarium. Pretty cute, right? He actually goes for about $250-$300 dollars so he is definitely on the expensive said. However, that’s not the point. I see this little guy and I can’t help but imagine an ecosystem with organisms that are a fusion between animals and plants. What would that look like?

Elephants with vines hanging from their tusks. Owls with whit mushrooms growing along their body that allow them to absorb nutrients. Deer with antlers made of actual branches that sprout blossoms that change with the season. Whales covered in moss. The possibilities are endless!!!

I look at this image and not only am envious of the fact that I don’t think I have 5 friends who would dress up as mushrooms with me, but I also see potential for a story. A DnD type adventuring party sets out on a journey! Except they’re all cute lil mushroom gals. What quest are they on exactly? And what hijinks will ensue?

(Link to the cosplayer’s twitter where the image was posted can be found here)

I need a short story featuring cute but horrifying monster cats. That is all.

Similar to the plants & animals prompt but with a steampunk-y twist. Imagine we, as humans, craft machine animals. Ones that are better equipped and therefore outcompete the actual wildlife on Earth when they are released into the wild? Just food for thought….(and hopefully your writing).

A vague concept but tattoo weapons and items is simply too cool not to include. How it may look in your story will probably differ from someone else’s. The parameters of this concept are up to you!

This marvelous painting by Jakub Rozalski gives me medieval David and Goliath vibes. But it makes me wonder….what if knighthood was not limited to humans? Could a fairy be knighted? A wizard maybe? Or perhaps… a giant?

And those are just a few picture prompts that I found while scouring my pinterest board. Definitely check it out if you’re interested. Regardless, I hope these few prompts got your rusty gears a-turnin’!

Have a Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays (whichever seems more appealing to you)!

Take care!

Self-Care Tips for Writers

~ Brooke F. ~ 8 Comments

As a writer, I can often find myself collecting bad habits like Pokémon. A cruddy sleep schedule (gotta finish that chapter), living on caffeine, imposter syndrome, the infliction of self guilt for not writing enough, and the list goes on and on. If you face similar unfortunate circumstances, then perhaps you can use this post as a checkpoint in your writing journey to take inventory. Have you been taking care of yourself lately?

★Avoid screens for a little while.

Chances are, you’ve been staring at one for awhile is you work using a word processor. Maybe consider having a “screen cleanse” day where you try to not look at a screen at all (unless necessary of course). If a whole day feels too long, try setting a timer from 1-3 hours and just reset your eyes by not using a screen within this time.

★Create a morning routine.

It’s easy to wake up ten minutes late, look at your phone first thing, or skimp on breakfast. But doing these habits on the regular can often make it even harder for you to start your day, especially if you have a lot of writing to get done. If your brain doesn’t feel refreshed and ready to get to work, it can often lead to writer’s block. Take a minute to write out your current morning routine. Make adjustments as needed.

★Fix yourself some coffee, tea, hot chocolate or maybe just a simple glass of water.

We all have that comfort drink. Why not fix yourself one? And if you haven’t drunk any good ol’ H2O in the last couple hours, then for the love of your brain and body, please go get yourself a glass.

★Don’t neglect your physical health- look up a workout online and start moving around.

This is something I probably have brought up before though I think it’s super important. Especially since it’s one that I struggle with personally. Especially if I feel uninspired and blobby. But a quick walk or workout has a way of resetting my brain and I know for a fact that it usually works. It’s often a matter of doing it.

★Journal.

Journaling is a wonderful way to reflect and track your current habits, writing related or otherwise. Sometimes journaling can simply be a way for you to dump out all the thoughts that are preventing or distracting you from whatever project you are currently working on. Either way, I definitely recommend pulling out a journal every now and then and getting to writing.

★Read. For fun.

Try to let yourself slip into the reader’s mindset. Try to not analyze everything you’re reading. Just read and let yourself bask in the words for a while.

★Pretty up your writing space.

My favorite way to do this is by adding some lighting or greenery. Or maybe both! Plants do a lot for brightening and livening up a space and fairy light…well, they just make me happy. They look so magical, what can I say! Don’t judge me, sometimes I just gotta satisfy my inner toddler. All she really wants are sparkles and glitters and I’m not about to tell her she’s wrong.

★Go to bed early.

I haven’t met a writer yet who wasn’t a night owl, so I might be biased. But let’s be honest here- couldn’t we all improve our sleeping habit? Maybe just a little? If not, then you have your life far more together than I do and this tip isn’t for you.

★Congratulate yourself on how far you’ve come already.

Your journey as a writer has probably been wrought with imposter syndrome or fear of not measuring up. Or perhaps you find yourself comparing your drafts to the finished drafts of other writers and fear that you have fooled everyone into thinking you’re a writer but are you really?

We’ve all been there. So maybe take a second to reflect on how far you’ve come as a writer. Even thought you might have written some really cringy stories in high school or middle school, by golly, you still did it. And it’s become a part of your journey to grow as a writer. And that’s something worth being proud of!

The Procrastination Tag

~ Brooke F. ~ 8 Comments

The Rules:

  • use the graphic in your post (as seen above!)
  • mention the creator of the tag (maya)
  • use the tag #theprocrastinationtag so the creator can see your cool post!
  • mention the person that nominated you: Corrie.S.P.
  • answer the questions below
  • tag as many people as you like ❤

Many thanks to Corrie for tagging me! And in the spirit of this tag, I procrastinated doing this tag! (It was definitely because I wanted to get in the spirit and not the fact that I…legitimately…procrastinated…it.)

Ahem…as I was saying! On with the tag!

Questions:

1. How many times do you think you have procrastinated in your life?

Oh. Starting out with a banger I see.

It’s impossible to tell at this point. I feel that at one time or another, I am always procrastinating something! I do this thing where I complete a task I had been previously procrastinating because I am simply procrastinating yet another task. It’s a continuous cycle.

2. How do you combat procrastination?

In the spirit of a certain shoe brand, I just do it.

Though there is an inner battle that takes place before hand that usually consists of me telling myself “just work on it for 5 minutes. Just 5 minutes.”

This is, of course, a trick and a lie. Usually if I can suffer through 5 minutes of something, I’m finally in the groove and I continue until I get it done or at least a big portion of the task accomplished. It’s a secret though, so don’t go telling my brain about this!

The more I think about it, the more I realize getting myself to do tasks is like motivating a toddler.

If we do the hard thing, what if we get a treat afterwards? You like treats right? Maybe some coffee…?

This is IMPORTANT. It will not go away. You don’t want to do this tomorrow, do you?

No, you cannot nap.

Just do it for five minutes and then we can go play with toys.

3. What advice would you give to someone procrastinating?

I think I’ve made a few posts on this very thing (as it’s something I clearly struggle with) but most of my advice generally boils down to just sitting down and working on the thing, if only for a short amount of time. Set small goals. Small goals seem more manageable.

It can also help to pinpoint specifically why your procrastinating. Not all procrastination is the same. Figure out which of the follow reasons is why you’re not working on the thing. This can further help you come up with a more fitting solution.

You’re burnt out: Go do something different for a little awhile. Take a walk and then return to the task.

You’re scared of failure: Remember that doing nothing and not trying is often worse than failure. It is basically a failure in of itself. Also remember that you don’t have to do everything perfectly. Take a breath, take a shower, or meditate for a moment. Then go try. It’s okay if you fail. Give yourself permission to suck.

You simply are in one of those lazy moods: If you have the time, take a quick 30 minutes to rest or let your brain switch off. Tell yourself after the allotted 30 minutes, you are going to work on the project for 10 minutes. Do the thing. See how easily your brain switches gears. If you still feel lazy, take another 30 minute break and then work for 10 minutes again afterwards.

You feel like garbage all around and just don’t want to work anymore: Ask yourself if you are feeling one of the these three things: Dehydrated, Hungry, or tired. You may feel all three of these things sometimes! Set about fixing these things before getting to work. You brain is not going to function well on 0 water, 0 sleep, or 0 food.

You are overwhelmed: Again, break things into smaller tasks. Make a to-do list and feel accomplished when you check things off. Prioritize. And then tackle the little tasks. Kick proverbial butt.

Phew, that was a lot! I didn’t mean to ramble like that! Thanks for sticking around till the end of the post! Hopefully you found something useful in there.

Anyways, time for nominations!

Inky @ https://borederthanever.wordpress.com/

Texas Lass @ https://thetexaslass.wordpress.com/

Jan @ https://love13reading.wordpress.com/

Lillian Keith @ https://lilliankeithauthor.wordpress.com/

And remember, it’s okay to procrastinate this tag.

An Extensive List of Character Flaws

~ Brooke F. ~ 2 Comments

Character flaws are a great tool to use in your writing. When used correctly, character flaws can add depth to the characters you write about, and make them seem more realistic and believable. But I bet you already knew that because why else would you be here? Anyways, here is an extensive list of character flaws that you can use at your leisure. Happy writing!

Absent-minded

Addictive personality

Aggressive

Aimless

Anxious

Arrogant

Attention-Seeking

Bad Habits

Bigmouthed

Blunt

Callous

Clumsy

Cowardice

Cruel

Cursed

Defensive

Dependent

Dishonest

Disloyal

Disturbed

Entitled

Envious

Erratic

Fantastical

Fickle

Flirty

Gruff

Gullible

Humorless

Hypocrite

Ignorant

Immature

Impatient

Impish

Incompetent

Infamous

Inflexible

Insincere

Judgmental

Lack of Self-awareness

Lacking Self-control

Lazy

Lustful

Manipulative

Martyr Complex

Meddlesome

Meek

Messy

Naive

Nihilistic

Non-reflective

Obsessive

Oppressive

Overambitious

Overemotional

Overprotective

Overzealous

Paranoid

Petty

Prejudice

Prideful

Prudish

Reckless

Refusal to change

Remorseless

Rude

Sadistic

Sarcastic

Self-denial

Selfish

Self-pities

Self-righteous

Shy

Snobby

Spiteful

Spoiled

Squeamish

Stand-offish

Stubborn

Superstitious

Tactless

Unfair

Unfriendly

Vengeful

Weak

Wrathful