From Kate’s
Writing Crate…
I cannot stress enough how important a
blog is for a writer. A commitment to fulfill assignments and meet deadlines is
what makes you a better writer—a professional writer, paid or unpaid. Plus it’s
a blast!
When Cheryl suggested starting a blog,
I was nervous, but excited. We both wrote down long lists of ideas. We thought
we could write two or three times a week if we alternated days Monday through
Friday. However, after discussing our jobs and family obligation schedules, we
decided to write once a week at the beginning and go from there.
Writing once a week turned out to be the
perfect blog schedule. It gives me time to continue with book reviews. A two-
or three-times-a-week blog would have cut into my reading time which would have
meant posting reviews less often as well as made me resentful. I love to write,
but reading is just as important to me.
I get cranky when my To-Be-Read pile
is low. Happiness isn’t just the good book I’m currently reading, but also
knowing there are more good books waiting for me. Reading is relaxing and
inspiring.
I believe every book is a
writing primer as well. It tunes our ears so we know when a voice works and
when it doesn’t. We see when settings and characters are vividly alive and when
they are flat. We get a feel for pacing, point of view, and plot, too. It’s the
best kind of learning because it’s hidden in fun.
I’m a writer because I’m a reader. I
loved books as soon as my mother put them in front of me while we read together.
I read early and often. If my mother wanted some quiet time, she put down a
stack of books next to me. I stayed put turning pages until she called for me.
I’m a blogger because I’m a writer.
Writers write. Commit to writing and you will be pleasantly surprised at what
you produce with the pressure of a weekly deadline. This is
the 4th anniversary of this blog—and I’m often surprised by and still pleased
with most of my posts.
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