I'd like to read works of fiction for a half an hour a day. I could do more but I want to be reasonable and realistic with my goals. I want to set myself up for success! I research and write non-fiction for most of the day for my job, so I'm pretty busy writing already. But creative writing, as opposed to expository writing, is a whole different beast. In addition, I've factored in the time I spend with family, friends, church, running, and life maintenance into this new goal. Thirty minutes seems like a healthy and happy goal, and one I can maintain for eighty days. If I go over, it's just gravy!
Here's a list of books I'm choosing from; it may change as the eighty days go by, and I certainly won't be able to read all of these. Some of these books came suggested by a wonderful writer in my writers group, Marcie Flinchum Atkins. Check out her work here!!! http://www.marcieatkins.com/
-Geraldine Brooks, Year of Wonders
-The House on Mango Street, Sandra Cisneros
-The Orchardist, Amanda Coplin
-Chains, Laurie House Alderson
-Copper Sun, Sharon M. Draper
-Helen Frost
-Margarita Engle
-Caroline Starr Rose
-Karen Hesse
-Hammer of God, Bo Giertz
I'm already reading Year of Wonders, a story of the Plague. I'll start Hammer of God soon for my theology reading group. We meet the third Friday of every month so I need to get cooking.
Writing
I'd like to work on my Marjory novel. It's a historical novel set in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, in 1907. I'd like to write for a half hour a day. This will be a challenge! I will be very proud of myself if I can do this.
Research
I'd like to do research for the novel for half an hour every Sunday. This will be easy! I love to research.
Craft Reading
I'd like to read for ten minutes every day from KidLit411.
Critique Group
3rd Saturday of July, August, September
Submit a piece; read and critique the group's writing; discuss the industry and craft.
Creative Outings
I'm doing something one time per week that sparks my creativity! I have a list of things I want to do in this area. First adventure on tap is a jaunt to Smithfield Plantation (http://www.smithfieldplantation.org/)
Disclaimer
I retain the right to be completely flexible with my goals!
