If anyone out there is interested in writing, I have picked up some helpful journals and books.  Here are some of my choices.

List Yourself - A journal with a different topic on each page as you make a list of different things in your life relating to that topic.  Examples include: List your favorite movies; List the times in your life when you felt lucky; If you had a house fire, list the things you would grab first, etc.

The Writer's Book of Matches - A small book of writing prompts.  I had to order this one online from Barnes and Noble.  Not sure if you can find it in the store but it's a great start to ideas that get your brain thinking.  Very very helpful.

The Book of Me, A Do It Yourself Memoir - The journal my hubby got me for memoir writing.  A serious account of one's life from birth to future.

A Picture of Me - Another journal like the one above.  This one is more fun and a shorter book.  It's great to explore friends and family, listing the preferences of different people you know.

The Little Red Writing Book - This one I have but haven't explored yet.  It's just a reading book with no activities, but is helpful with writing rules.

Take Ten - Ten minute writing exercises that really get your mind thinking.  It works best to set a timer, something I don't have.  I gotta watch the clock which actually helps me to think as I write.  I'm so happy I got this book!


 
 
I started writing at a young age.  It happened at times when I would be alone in my bedroom.  If I didn't have anything to do, I'd grab a blank piece of paper and just start writing.  I'd start with nothing, just a "one day" or "one night" phrase and it would go off from there.  Ideas come as I write, especially with dialogue.  Dialogue is my strongest point, as description is my weakest.  Many writing classes I've taken and books I've read say to have an outline first.  Those don't work for me!  If I do an outline (as in life if I plan something), it won't happen.  I'm more of a spontaneous person.  If anyone out there knows me well, they do know that!!