Entry 35: Stories from the Big Pink

I’ve never been good about keeping a journal. It all boils down to consistency. There are days when I skip making an entry. Life can crowd out the time I need to write down my thoughts about a day’s events. I’ve also been reluctant to pose as an expert on the writing process. If I knew anything of value about writing, my work would already be in print. I went out on a skinny limb of a tall in 2022 when I shared my 365 days of thankfulness. The exercise forced me to put myself out there with my soft belly exposed. Thank you for joining me on my journey in the written word. Therefore, I plan to keep a journal in 2023 to document my progress. I will call Entry 35: Stories from the Big Pink

Note: I consider editing an important part of the writing process. Editing is where all the artistry happens.

My morning writing before I started Entry 35: Stories from the Big Pink

I had one of those mornings when the words seemed to flow like an out-of-control river. Maybe Word Daddy sprinkled me with the fiery dust of inspiration after I outed him about being on vacation. He enjoys proving me wrong. I completed chapter 19 and am well into chapter 20 in my rewrite of Amazing Buchanan and the Beast. Overall, January was a productive time for me, so who needs Word Daddy anyway? Maybe I don’t need the help of a muse these days.

I am starting to play with several forms of poetry in February. I thought I’d start the month writing Blitz poetry. I’ve written those poems in the past. I enjoyed creating them, but they can get frustrating because of all the rules. I am also doing research into another couple of styles. My goal is not to get stuck fixating on a single poem style this year. I want to explore the many options that are out there.

The book I am currently reading right now and Entry 35: Stories from the Big Pink

I am still reading Alexander McCall Smith’s The Novel Habits of Happiness. Isabel nicely shows up for dinner with her new boyfriend, and Cat’s new man looks like Isabel’s husband, Jamie. This situation creates a problem because Jamie used to live with Cat before she dumped him. Isabel also spends time with Harry, the small boy who believes he is reincarnated.

I seem to be moving threw the book faster. I have had more time this week for reading, and I am getting drawn into the story.

What I’m listening to right now and Entry 35: Stories from the Big Pink

I am listening to Eric Clapton’s Chronicles this morning. This week my musical taste has leaned in the Clapton direction.

The thing I am most thankful for at this moment.

I am thankful to live in a big pink house. We bought this place thirty years ago on contract for twenty thousand dollars. We got it cheap because of the pink siding and the sketchy neighborhood. People who live here say it was once a funeral parlor. Rumors abound that it is haunted. The ghosts must have decided they like us because they haven’t bothered us for years. It has kept us warm and dry through many storms. It’s not fancy, but it is home. I am grateful to call the Big Pink home.

This old lady says

Creative stuff can happen in a big pink house. Something about the energy inside these walls makes stories come alive. The Band must have had a similar experience when they recorded  Music from The Big Pink. Everyone have a great writing day, and may the words flow from your fingers.

Who is Molly Shea?

Molly Shea is an accomplished fictional short story writer from Indiana who writes short stories and novels about a fictional town called Tecumseh.  To read more of her short stories and adventures, click here.

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