I’ve seen a couple “Blog Hops” or “Blog Tours” recently – a time to share your own writing process and introduce others who have inspired or influenced you. My friend, Megan (who is a writer of books) just posted her process and invited me to do the same. Megan and I are in a book club together. We meet once a month, share food, drink wine, laugh, and read books written by women or which feature a strong female lead. You can read more about Megan’s writing process and books she’s working on over at her blog, Womb of Words.
My Writing Process:
1) What are you working on?
Well, really I’m just working on this blog. I started it last November to become a better writer. I found that dumping my thoughts into my journal is cathartic but since there’s no editing involved and I’m the only one who reads it, I wasn’t stretching myself. I still don’t view myself as a real writer – more of a hobbyist blogger, so I guess I’m also working on a change of attitude.
2) How does your work differ from others of its genre?
I guess I should figure out what my genre is… Mommy-blogger? Faith writer? Storyteller? I suppose what sets this space apart is that I try to tie universal truths to mundane life experiences. Since the life experiences I draw from are my own, I can give a unique voice and perspective.
3) Why do you write what you do?
I write life stories because, even when I’m doubting myself, I do believe our stories matter. I believe we learn from each other’s experiences and that community is formed by our unique experiences and perspectives. I am amazed at which stories get the most response – usually the ones I’m most nervous about sharing. It’s a good reminder that we can all look at seemingly small things and find grace and redemption.
4) How does your writing process work?
Writing process sounds so formal! I write during naptime and sometimes during Daniel Tiger. With an almost-two-year-old, writing gets squeezed in during quiet moments. When I started this blog, I did make a commitment to write twice a week, and I’ve mostly stuck with that. It’s been good practice to have that goal – especially during weeks when nothing has happened, I have to dig for stories and am surprised at what I find.
Follow more writers!
I’m still quite new to the blogging world, but these two women write beautifully and offer wonderful encouragement.
Alexandra Kuykendall is a friend from MOPS who writes about the messiness of motherhood. Her book, The Artist’s Daughter empowers mothers to embrace their stories. You can check out her personal blog here.
I think I first interacted with Juliette through a What I’m Into link-up. In any case, her writing is thoughtful and I always leave with a new perspective. She blogs at Still Learning.
Who are some of your favorite bloggers or writers?
Annie Rim 
I was asked by a friend to participate in a similar “blog hop” but the timing didn’t work for me. Interesting to read of others process. One of my favorite blogger/writers in Heather Kopp who blogs at Sober Boots. I also enjoy the variety of writers on the SheLoves Magazine blog. Thanks Annie.
It was nice taking some time to reflect on this process. I’ll have to Check out Heather’s site!