In each of our pen lives, getting into a creative rut is common. If that happens, it’s necessary to push through. I imagine a seedling pushing its way through the ground or a hatchling pecking its way out of the eggshell. There’s no other way out. At times, the daily grind of a writer can feel mundane. Don’t let…
I haven’t been lately blogging. I’m now embracing married life with a 7-year-old stepson. Luis and I tied the knot on July 23rd. Even for a small wedding ceremony and reception, it gets hectic and at times stressful during the last couple of weeks. So many details and tasks. Luis and I got away to Narragansett, Rhode…
Some people prefer gender neutral names for different reasons. I’m wondering about something similar with ethnic names. It’s not about being ashamed of ethnicity or name. I have no problems with my very South Indian name and didn’t change it to an “American” name. It’s about celebrating the cosmopolitan international mindset that I have as a third…
Most people are familiar with goal setting. One of my habits is having a journal entirely devoted to writing goals where I list them and then reflect or journal about it. It’s short and sweet but this keeps me on track. Having writerly wishes is different from goal setting. Think about the time you were…
Summer or spring time seems to be the time for writer conferences. Writers conferences are not only a treat but a great opportunity to network, get inspired and refreshed, and of course pitch your ideas to editors and agents. I have attended writer conferences for years, been involved in organizing it, and when I was an acquisitions…
Plenty could be said about the weekend. I was looking forward to learning, being encouraged and renewed, meeting new people, and plugging into the literary scene of Boston/New England. I also left with a new reading list and goals for the year as a writer. GrubStreet is the ultimate consortium for any writer or publishing professional…
No other question makes me feel more accomplished than “Where do you live now?” Recently, more than one acquaintance, old friend, or old coworker who ran into me in the internet world has asked me that. Within the last few years or so, I had the itchy feet. Not athlete’s foot, but a compulsion or…
