Romantic Novelists Association Conference 2012

Well, hello folks – as you’re aware I was away for the weekend at The Romantic Novelists Association Conference 2012 in Penrith, Cumbria. I have to say, I had the best time networking with other writers and talking books, books, books.

The conference began on Friday – which was a simple case of travel and settle prior to the main events on Saturday and Sunday. I arrived extremely late on the Friday night, as I completed a day at the day-job – but hey, I saw it as a challenge to drive for five hours having completed the eight hour day! I can honestly say, it was worth every minute. On arriving I discovered that the RNA organiser, Jan had actually arranged for a hot meal to be reserved for me – now, I ask you, how many organization do that for their members? Not many.

I did nothing Friday night apart from settle into my room and rest in eager anticipation of the full weekend ahead. I was not disappointed. The conference had a wide selection of workshops and talks to attend – each given by notably knowledgeable bods – on a range of subjects. I took much delight in attending Talli Roland’s session regards on-line marketing, Kate Harrison’s discussion about the future of women’s fiction and Kirsty McClusky’s affirmation as to why we love romantic fiction. I would have been content to have gone home having attended and learnt so much just from these three talks – but, there was more. Jane Wenham-Jones, who I have followed for numerous years in Writers’ Magazine and Writers’ News, took the red eye slot on Sunday morning. Boy oh boy, what a funny lady. Was there a moment in her hour talk where I wasn’t laughing or wiping the tears from my eyes? No, not a single second. Her anecdotes, her jokes and her advice came thick and fast. She also told a particular joke - especially for the literary set. Afterwards, I attended a creative coaching session aimed at liberating our pent up fears and emotions linked to our writing – honesty was the measure of this session, but hey it worked, I came out with a sense of self realization.

I have to mention the ‘official Goodie bag’ – it deserves a paragraph to itself, it was that spectacular. Now, I’ve seen ‘Goodie bags’ in the past, pathetic attempts to offer freebies hidden amongst a ream of advertising and marketing flyers. The RNA Goodie bag is the best I have ever seen. There were five novels, yes, five! Plus chocolate mixed in with the novel seed packets, postcards, bookmarks, pens and business cards. It weighed that much, it actually hurt your shoulders to carry it about! Now, there is a definite measure for any future goodie bag, I receive.

I met lots of wonderful writers, some published, others (and I loved this term) pre-published! My Twitter account has been inundated with new followers – who I have eagerly followed back. One particular acquaintance was Helen Phifer, a romance/crime writer, who has been working on her novel the same amount of time I have been working on ‘Her’. It is so comforting to hear others relay the same difficulties regards family commitments, full-time jobs and general life holding back their writing careers. And yet, we continue to plod the best we can!

All in all, I had a wonderful time and already know that I shall be attending next year’s conference in Sheffield.

I have returned home with my creative energy, motivation and determination at an all time high. The RNA conference 2012 was exactly what I needed to complete this year and begin moving towards the future.

For further details, please visit www.rna-uk.org – where you’ll find a wealth of information.

Before I sign off, I do have to say a big hello to all my over seas followers – I have seen a vast increase in your traffic in the last week. It is such a delight seeing the global map (linked to my blog stats) change colour as you each connect and read. So, a big ‘Thank you’ for your continued support.

Remember you can follow me on Twitter @odwyer_author to receive random updates throughout my week. Enjoy!

Summer countdown, new Tweeters and a room of ones own

Evening folks, I thought I’d write an early update, as I have some spare time on a Friday night. I’m delighted that the working week is over – it’s been a tough on one, my energy levels are pretty exhausted and the countdown has begun for the six weeks summer holiday – 10 more school get ups!

My writing week has been pretty simple – I’ve returned to ‘Her’ as I need to post a manuscript to RNA New Writers’ Scheme by the end of July. So, I have plodded away reading each chapter, frantically searching for anything that is out of place or missing. I’ve repeated this each night this week and am hoping that the job will be complete by next Thursday.

Joy of the week! I have been awarded a classroom of my own at school, so am excitedly dressing the walls with my favourite book posters. Posters, which I’ve purchased over time, are now getting to see the light of day – I simply can’t wait! Once the transformation has occurred I may even treat you to a classroom photograph.

I have had numerous conversations about ‘that book’ this week – other people have become quite heated that it isn’t on the literary scale, therefore it must be a waste of time. I feel that you have to take it for what it is, escapism and entertainment. Though, I did dissuade my mother from purchasing it, certainly not her cup of tea. I’ve always been a ‘book worm’ but it’s been funny listening to others define why they read. I personally read for the same reason others watch films, listen to music or play computer games – purely entertainment. I have always read a wide range of genres and authors – yet, the reason remain unchanged. I don’t understand why others try to argue that ‘Fifty Shades’ has to tick any other box to make it acceptable to read. Go figure!

Talking of books – I am progressing nicely with Alcott’s ‘Little Women’ – it has proved far easier to read as an adult, than it was as a child. Though, the variance of language has got me wondering just how much I truly understood as a child – I can’t recall asking my parents to explain specific words.

This week, I have just one writers’ meeting with the Mad Hatters on Wednesday evening. Last session we set another group exercise based on a snippet of intriguing dialogue.

Person one: ‘Are you ready to do it then?’

Person two: ‘As ready as I’ll ever be.’

Person one: ‘O.K. Let’s get it over with.’

The general rules are to complete a short story written purely in dialogue – I know we won’t be reading these out this week, so I don’t have to rush with my idea but, I’d like the plot sketched out before next Wednesday.

Finally, my plans for the weekend revolve about my husband’s birthday – though, I will be snatching some time at my desk, even if it means I need to get up early tomorrow morning.

Remember you can follow me on Twitter @odwyer_author to receive random updates throughout my week. There was a surge of new Twitter followers last week – so a big hello to you all. Enjoy!

Murder, Inspiration and the class of ‘87

Morning folks – I’m a day late updating my blog, but as you’ve come to realise that usually happens when I’m busy enjoying myself. So, let me share. Friday night I spent the evening in Birmingham at a Murder Mystery night organised by a company called ‘It’s Murder’. I have to say - they were superb. I won’t spoil any plots by telling you who or what, but the cast played their part to a tee. During our meal, the actors performed and answered questions and by the time coffee was being served the diners, approximately 60, had all morphed into Miss Marples. I’d never attended one before, in fact this was another item from my April Fool 40^th list – but I would certainly do it again, the night was filled with laughter and fun! The evening was part of a hotel package, so I wasn’t at home till the afternoon. For more information please visit their website: www.itsmurder.co.uk

Friday morning, another mini events took place – my Olympics tickets arrived!!!! How exciting is that? It suddenly became very real that I shall be attending. It seems quite mythical in some respects to be actually attending an Olympics event – even more so, given the method of ticket allocation for London 2012.

Anyhow, back to the writing. Last Wednesday I attended my Mad Hatters’ Group – I read aloud a poem called ‘Poodle in a puddle’ which was inspired by my own miniature poodle. As I mentioned last week, the poem has been tumbling about my head for a while and has finally made it to the page. The group enjoyed it, though one line needs some attention and editing. I was pleased with their reactions.

I didn’t make it to my Thursday group due to a headache – but I was prepared to take and read a poem inspired by the children’s poem ‘Cats sit anywhere’ by Eleanor Jarjeon, my version is called ‘Pigeons shit anywhere’. If you know the original poem, you’ll fully appreciate my modern version. I’ve used inspirations in this manner many times before – chose something creative from which you build from and upon. It could be a line of poetry, a classic painting, a photograph or a fairy tale. It is quite amazing how you can add a creative twist producing a new piece. I suppose the perfect example is Tracy Chevalier’s ‘The Girl with a pearl ear-ring’ inspired by Vermeers’ painting – a recommended read if you haven’t already.

Another mention for Thursday, 28^th June – here in Britain, we experienced a freak downpour that can only be described as ‘Biblical’. I have never witnessed rain like it – its power, force and speed were frightening for anyone caught outside. I stood watching from a classroom window and know the images I saw are already germinating into a new piece. It’s just a matter of time for it to take root – then, I’ll write.

I have finished reading Steinbeck’s ‘The Grapes of Wrath’ – I was sad to finish it, if I am honest. I then began Alcott’s ‘Little women’ in preparation for a literature course in October. But, and here is my confession of the week, I couldn’t ignore the hype surrounding ‘that book’ or ‘mummy porn’ as I heard someone call it yesterday - ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ by EL James. I downloaded it onto my IPad, and have flicked through. I can understand the hype and I love the fact that people I know, who never read a book, have bought this one. So, in my opinion, bingo – success! Fingers crossed the ‘Grey’ readers catch the reading bug and continue to purchase or borrow novels.

And finally, Saturday night, last night, I attended a wedding reception of an old school friend and had the time of my life catching up with others that I hadn’t seen in 25 years!!!! It was like a mini reunion, though totally unexpected and yet, a sheer joy – which has made my week. This morning, I woke incredibly early, and sat supping tea with the biggest smile on my face. Of course the old creative juices have taken hold and I did manage to sketch the plot for a short story – which I will dedicate to the class of ’87.

I have returned to polishing my novel ‘Her’ as a manuscript copy is expected by the Romantic Novelists Associations’ New Writer Scheme – so, it’s my intention to continue this for another week.

I still haven’t heard a word from any publishers – so again, no news is good news! But I did check out this website which boosted my faith just a little. If they can survive rejection – then, so can I. Visit: www.onehundredrejections.com - it makes very interesting reading.

So, all in all, I do ask for forgive for being sooooo late with this update – but I have given you fair reasons. Life’s simply ace at the moment ….wouldn’t it be good if that one little letter could arrive from a publisher – boy, that would be (words would simply fail me).

Remember you can follow me on Twitter @odwyer_author to receive random updates throughout my week. A big hello to all my new followers – it’s so wonderful to receive mentions and comments. Enjoy!

Submissions, Post boxes and hot air ballooning

Morning world, I was expecting to have a hangover this morning but so far the hangover fairy hasn’t delivered the goods – so, I shall blog while I can.

I’ve had a cracking week after the disappointments of last weekend. This week, I have submitted a poem for consideration to a children’s picture book publisher. A little ditty inspired by my poodle on our daily walks. It had been rattling about the old brain cells for a while, and finally, I have polished it and posted – so, fingers crossed. This submission means that three manuscripts are doing the rounds in the big wide world.

I don’t know about you, but I do have a habit of using the same post box, in preference to any other. Weird, I know, but hey, indulge me. My current favourite is an old styled post box with the Queen’s initials cast into the bottom. I forgo the ultra modern box outside the post office, the brick built one (honestly, brick built?) and uuurrrrrgh, to the tiny half-sized one pinned to a wooden post – a poor excuse for a post box in my eyes. I don’t even mind that I have to go out of my way to use the one I like, it’s a decent dog walk in fine weather or a short car journey in bad weather – but, I still opt for my favourite. Is the fixation too much when you’ve looked at the house situated behind my fav post box and thought hummmm, if that ever came up for sale? Bugger the size of the kitchen, it has easy access to my post box! Is that too much? Really? Oh well.

Quite recently, I wrote a poem about a Dormouse, which the dog sniffed out on our walks, and this week, I had the joy of watching a news reel yesterday about the decline of the Dormouse in Britain due to farming methods. Apparently, 70 pairs have just been released into a woodland to help encourage a breeding programme. Bless um. I was chuffed that my creative flow had captured a moment of a creature in decline, but whose future looks a little rosier..

The big story of last weekend was my trip in a hot air balloon, which I had waited 15 months to do. The constant cancellations had lulled me into a false sense that it would never happen, and even last Sunday morning, I was sure it would be cancelled. But no, the weather was perfect and up we went. It was truly amazing. I would do it again tomorrow. The sense of calm and freedom experienced is something else. We lifted to 3000 feet, travelling at 12 mph and the views were stunning. There was a moment, when I thought ‘there is just wicker beneath my feet then fresh air’ – my stomach did swirl at that thought, but other than that, nothing. It was like being in a great glass elevator – wonderful. The landing was as smooth as possible with just one tiny jolt and the balloon crew were excellent.  

My reading this week has continued with Steinbeck’s ‘The Grapes of Wrath’ – I have fallen in love with him all over again. I am half way through the novel and woe betide the pupil at school that disturbs my reading lunch break. Honestly, truly a great writer. My next reading book is already lined up Alcott’s ‘Little Women’ – I read it as a child but a reread is necessary for a literature course which I’ve booked for October. I’ve seen the film adaptation which my mother loves, and do remember the book taking me an age to read as a child. But, for now, I’ll stick with Steinbeck’s beautiful descriptions.  

This week, I have two writing groups to attend - I don’t know what I’ll be reading but I’ll take something to each. Friday, which I can’t wait for, we, hubby and I, shall be attending a murder mystery evening in plush hotel. It was an item on my ‘April Fool’ list for my 40^th year, so I’m chuffed to be able to tick it off. I’ll let you know how it goes.

A big shout out to America – wow, so many hits this week, guys - you made me blush when I saw the stats. Please pass the blog address to others that may or could be interested. I try to share my writing experience as best I can and maybe it’ll help another  to begin writing or continue to plod along.

Remember you can follow me on Twitter @odwyer_author to receive random updates throughout my week. Enjoy!

Creative worth, group etiquette and networking joy

Morning folks, you catch me on the hop between musing and writing tasks. This morning, I was forced to value my worth as a writer by chasing a publication regarding a short story they wished to publish. Now, if you’ve followed my blog, you’ll have realised that I do place value on my time and energy as a creative bod – so, to find that I’ve been strung along for seven months with worthless promises doesn’t sit right with me. With some it might, not me. Anyway, after a quick think, I’ve withdrawn my short story from the publisher. I wrongly thought my withdrawn short story would be valued as the publication was created/produced by writers and poets but sadly not even this ‘experienced’ group couldn’t behave in a fitting manner to acknowledge creative worth. Instead, they’ve chosen to treat the grass roots like fools. So, what value do we each have? I know that for me to write a short story takes hours; drafting, constructing, polishing and editing – those few stages represents about eight hours for me. Once complete, I have the hard material cost of printing, paper, postage – again all small costs, but they too add to the value of the piece. Then finally, to the hypothetical value - the value that it personally means to me as a writer – a good story, set at a particular time, the enjoyment factor. Some of my work I value higher than others pieces. I suppose the easiest analogy to use is painting pictures - some paintings are worth far more than others because of the delivered skill, content, subject matter, toil and tears. As a writer, I truly believe that my creative value shouldn’t be misused by others, but respected and treated as such. Even more so, if offered for publication without a payment fee. But, hey, as disappointing as this morning has been, I know that in the long run I’m glad I found out now as it allows me to send that piece elsewhere. It's another step on the learning curve. It isn't the first time such things have occured, yet again doing 'free' work for others has been taken for granted.

I might not have occurred to others, who don’t write or are just starting out but the seasons have a huge impact when it comes to writing short stories and placing them for publication. The story, I just mentioned is set for the pantomime season and so, there is no point sending it to a magazine in November, it has to be sent now in June, so that editors have time to read, peruse and still have time for Christmas deadlines. So, as a writer of short stories you are usually six months ahead in your planning and creative flow. This adds a new dimension when writing about winter when there is a heat wave outside your window, skews your description a little. I used to write as the season occurred, then save until the appropriate time to send to a publisher, but of course this increased the time cycle. So, imaginations just have to work that little bit harder to ensure a shorter cycle regards productivity.

Thursday evening - I attended the Grace Dieu Writers Circle for an evening of in-house competition. Most writers groups have similar exercises, I mentioned the Mad Hatter one a few weeks ago. Any how, the in-house competition related to six words chosen at random from the dictionary (local, crinkle, imperfection, polygamist, concession, vulgarity). The brief stated that the word count could not exceed 1000, but could be about any subject and presented in any manner. Well, I wasn’t aware of the competition until Tuesday night but, I just had to have a go. I produced a letter, which contained the six words. I don’t usually share work with my followers and so thought I’d make an exception on this occasion, as it is only a short piece.

111 High Street,

Coalville,

Leicestershire.

Dear Mr and Mrs Jenkins

The Grace Dieu School wishes to keep parents fully informed regarding their child’s progress.

As Gareth’s form tutor I have tried, without success, to make contact on numerous occasions. I appreciate that working parents may not work in or near the local vicinity - preventing them from attending parents’ evening or performance day meetings. Therefore, our head teacher, Mr James, has requested that I contact you, via letter, to outline our current concerns.

In recent weeks, Gareth has incurred a number of negatives due to poor behaviour and rudeness during lessons.

Last week, in Mrs Munn’s English lesson, Gareth was awarded a detention for eating a packet of salt and vinegar crinkle cut crisps. He was particularly rude when his teacher confiscated the packet, stating that it was his breakfast therefore, he had a ‘legal’ right to consume food during the lesson.

Earlier this week, Ms Nixon expressed growing concern regarding the amount of time Gareth spends checking his appearance for the smallest imperfection – particularly his ‘guyliner’ and geometric hairstyle. Ms Nixon has confiscated the small vanity mirror, decorated with a skull and cross bones, as Gareth kept removing the said item from his pocket throughout her lesson.

Yesterday, in Mr Young’s music lesson, Gareth was asked to curb his language and refrain from social discussions, about his drunken weekend, which verged on utter vulgarity.

You may be aware, that Gareth has a strong friendship with two female pupils, Polly McGuire and Misty Green. My specific concern relates to an incident that occurred in my Geography lesson. Our class project focuses upon the Canadian village of Concession in Nova Scotia – in yesterday’s lesson Gareth, Polly and Misty insisted on forming a working group. Sadly, they contributed very little to the class discussion other than their strong belief that polygamist behaviour should be mandatory in every society. I do believe that their opinion only arose from the notion that their forenames, when combined, do spell ‘polygamist’. I feel it is no coincidence that the word ‘polygamist’ has been daubed on every bench, bin and fence panel within the school yard.

As you can appreciate, pupils and parents have expressed a desire that such poor behaviour is addressed, as learning is being affected.

As Gareth’s form tutor I do hope you can attend the next parents’ evening on 18^th July or make contact should you have any concerns regarding Gareth’s grades.

Yours Sincerely,

Mr Pemberton

Head of Humanities

(Word count 416)

As you can see, I managed to squeeze a little bit of humour and day-job related experience – it gained a chuckle from the other members. The entries were anonymous, read aloud to the group by non-participating members, after which we voted. The group winner was a story about pickling cucumbers and the winner receive a bottled of vino for their efforts. As always happens at meetings, a very interesting discussion arose regards the return of a member who hadn’t attended the group for near on six years. She introduced herself to those she’d never met, and was very honest regards why she’d stopped attending. I listened in horror, to her account of the behaviour of certain members who used to attend. I know I’ve mentioned group etiquette before, but this was something else. It only goes to show just how important group dynamics are in any circle – if, like in this case, they are verging on authoritarian it only serves to put people off attending, and in this lady’s case put a stop to her creative writing.

Last week you’ll remember that I mentioned that I’d begun following and connecting with a whole host of other writers belonging to The Romantics Novelists Association – well, the networking list has been endless. I am so delighted that many sought to view my little blog – so, a big ‘thank you’. I am so looking forward to July’s conference weekend.

The week ahead is empty regards meetings and what nots, so I’ll be taking full advantage and having a writing week. So should you happen to view the clock between seven and ten, any evening next week, I’ll be fokbos (fingers on keyboard, bum on seat).

The plan for today, is a gentle stroll to my desk with a disgusting volume of hot tea.

Remember you can follow me on Twitter @odwyer_author to receive random updates throughout the week. Enjoy!

Happy holiday, RNA prep and lost voices

Morning folks, how the devil are you? I’ve been on school holiday all week and, am proud to say, I have made the most of every minute. I have written everyday, for hours on end - and the result, is one happy woman. Honestly, I haven’t done day trips, visiting, coffees or lunches. Nope, from ten o’clock, sometimes nine, I have simply written at my desk until clocking off at six o’clock. It might sound a tad selfish, but I haven’t cared that it hasn’t stopped raining for the entire time. I have today and tomorrow remaining of the holiday, as we return on Monday, so I shall make the most of it. See, I promised with Plan B out of the way I’d dedicate the time to my writing.

Talking about Plan B, which was rubber stamped last Friday, 1^st June – I still can’t believe that I’ve managed to secure a paying career which can accommodate my writing. I can now circle each school holiday for writing, which given that the six weeks holiday is fast approaching, is great news.

The postman delivered some sunshine yesterday with the arrival of my Romantics Associations Novelists’ Conference pack – woo hoo, my very first RNA conference. Anyway, the package contained all the nitty-gritty details regarding the various talks and presentations from which I’ve had to choose which I’d like to attend – easy, all of them! Sadly, that isn’t possible, so I’ve had to select and then email my choice. I have to say, I am very impressed with their efficiency and organization. All the newbie bods, like me, are contacted prior to the weekend to ensure we know the basic details and what to expect. And… I loved this bit, they issued a networking email enabling us each to write a little about ourselves and swap Twitter details, so before blogging, I was busy ‘following’ lots of new writing ‘friends’ on Twitter. Do you remember what one of my six New Year Resolutions was? Yep, more networking with novelists – yay, I can’t wait!

Have I ever mentioned my previous experience of a writers’ conference?  The one I attended about five years ago? No, woo. To cut a long story short, it was the one where conference virgins are given a coloured sticker to highlight that they are newbies. Anyway, after a day and a half of being rudely spoken too, shoved out the way in the afternoon tea queues and general unpleasantness all round - I’d had enough. Anyway, whilst walking back to my room I spotted a pile of blank ‘veteran’ name badges (different coloured spot) left lying on a reception desk – I took one. I then changed my badge for the remainder of the conference and received very different treatment – I wonder why? One conference, I won’t be returning too.

Last weekend, the United Kingdom celebrated Lizzy’s 60 years as Queen, and I have to say, I was impressed with the organised events and concerts. I was quite touched at certain points – and was delighted that I was able to capture some thoughts in a poem. Being of mixed nationalities, I haven’t always felt particularly ‘British’ even though I’ve never lived anywhere else. Hubby goes spare when I can’t get wound up - sorry, excited by the England football team, or have a burning desire to hang a large Union Jack from the bedroom windows like normal folk do. I just don’t feel it, I usually end up supporting one of my other nationalities or a wildcard team, much to hubby’s disgust. But, last weekend, at the ripe old age of 41, I did have ‘flutterings’ of proud to be British. I thought, it best I write it down given that the Euro football started yesterday, I made need a reference point in a week or so. One final thought, if the Diamond Jubilee looks like that, I really can’t wait for the Olympics come July. Have I mentioned that I have tickets for the football final at Wembley? No, that’s surprising, I think I’ve mentioned it everywhere else.

I didn’t have any writing meetings this week, which sometimes happens due to the fall of calendar. A ‘fortnightly’ group along side a ‘week two and four of each month’ group can sometimes appear in the same week or in different and occasionally, not at all. So, this coming week I have both, Mad Hatters on Wednesday and Thursday night,

Grace Dieu Writers Circle

. I haven’t a clue what I’ll read but I must make an effort to take something to both meetings.

I had a ‘film session’ during the week, as I had school marking to do, and I marveled at how simple some of the plot lines are; Full Monty, Pretty Woman and Mama Mia – I’m starting to think that authors could possibly take a visual lesson from the plot breakdown and transfer it into their writing. I noticed that something similar was proposed at the RNA conference in relation to Pixar films – which I haven’t watched many. I might do a little more private research on this topic and share my findings at a later date.

Other research, my own musings really, is the reason why some people become writers and others faint at the very idea of spending so much time alone. I’m starting to think that writers, and to some extent poets, are those who have lost their voices within their own lives. Growing up I always felt over shadowed by a sibling, they were classed as funnier, louder, sportier, cleverer – everything basically, and my voice/personality was lost in their shadow. I suppose, I went into my own head, which helped as a teenager when my father was diagnosed with an illness to give me a place to retreat. I’ve started to recognize this trait in other writers – I’m starting to listen to their stories and so far, I’ve heard their ‘lost voice’ come through in numerous ways, but it is there. Try it, see if you agree.

I’ve begun reading ‘The Grapes of Wrath’ by Steinbeck – I think, I’ve fallen in love all over again. Steinbeck literally paints a picture in my mind before the scene begins and characters interact. I’ve read ‘Of Mice and Men’ but many people have mentioned that this book is his prize work. So far, I agree.

Today, the plan Stan is to repeat the writing pattern of the last week. I might even polish a short story ready for Wednesday and Thursday groups or I might arrange and print a few poems.

Remember you can follow me on Twitter @odwyer_author to receive random updates throughout the week. Enjoy!

Time, energy and a dream

Well, I did it! I qualified as an English teacher yesterday and as fabulous as that is, I should always have employment…. it actually means that from this day on I shall have more time and energy to focus on my dream, a published novel. Oooh the weight lifted from my shoulders yesterday as my trainee teaching documents were officially signed. I was on a high all day. And, today, well it was my first thought when I opened my eyes, quickly followed by ‘ohhh, a day of writing’. So, the plan for today is very, very simple – I shall write. In fact, I have an entire week of writing ahead of me as I’m on school holiday.

This weekend the United Kingdom are celebrating the Diamond Jubilee celebrating Elizabeth’s 60year reign. What an amazing accomplishment! So, I am sure I’ll be casting my eye over the celebration and pomp, with the odd glass of vino. The actual day of her accession was today, 2^nd June 1952 and so I’ll draft a poem in honour, which I’ve done for all the large events of this year. I even made up a tiny ditty at a wedding I attended last night, it seemed more fitting than yet another ‘best wishes for the future’ - see how poetry has crept into my daily life?

My week has been dominated by preparing for the teacher qualification but I have listed lots of new ideas for short stories, and I have received some rejections from competition pieces which I can now ‘tart up’ and distribute else where. I missed my Mad Hatters’ meeting due to preparation work and have vowed to myself that I won’t be cancelling any future events.

You might remember that last Saturday, I attended ‘Swan Lake’ ballet – oh, it was lush. I’d never previously attended the Garrick theatre in Lichfield, but it was an ideal venue. It is small, intimate and of modern design but it was a stunning performance. Though, I was surprised to see many empty seats at a Saturday matinee. I’d arrived in Lichfield earlier than necessary, so I went to The Sparks café, for a drink and a muse. The only other customers were a couple, spoon feeding a toddler, the task took ages but the image inspired a poem which I drafted there and then.

A big shout out to my overseas followers – you are currently outnumbering the hits from England – so, hello, good morning and welcome. I hope you enjoy my weekly snippets.

With the additional time on my hands to be creative I have promised to become a creative junky. Quite literally. I have booked numerous events for the coming months that should help to inspire and keep my creative level topped to the brim, if not over flowing. A murder mystery weekend, the hot air balloon (yes, still waiting), day trips to London, Romantic Novelists Associations’ annual ball and some quiet weekends dedicated to my craft. As always, I’ll let you know how they go, as they crop up.

So, my plans for this week: write, write and write. I have nothing else planned, and expect nothing but an empty house and me. I intend to ‘Tweet’ my progress on my second novel. Remember you can follow me on Twitter odwyer_author to receive random updates throughout the week. Enjoy!