They say the worst thing a creative person can do is spend all of their time doing “their thing,” whatever their thing might be. For writers this often means spending too much time with their laptops and WIPs and imaginary friends/enemies/ghosts, and not enough time seeking out new places and people and lived experiences.
Don’t get me wrong, I love a good plunge down the creative rabbit hole. In fact, I’m on the precipe of another big leap, as I plan to spend the rest of the summer completing my latest novel WIP (1/3 typed, 2/3 to go). But before I commit to that, I have to admit, there’s something appealing about creating a little space between oneself and one’s work, and seeing what floats in and out, or where we might float to and from.
I’m happy to report that since I’ve been on a self-prescribed writers retreat in St. John’s, my laptop and I have been working on our co-dependency. I’ve gone on some beautiful walks and hikes, met some interesting people, indulged in local fare, and greedily eavesdropped on many, many coffee shop conversations that were not meant for my ears. (We writers are natural eavesdroppers. It’s a gift.)
Here are some of the eye-widening vistas I’ve been enjoying while happily #notwriting. What better metaphor for creativity, or the possibilities of this writing life, than an open sky and an ocean that seem limitless.
A :)
Anita Kushwaha, Author 
It looks so beautiful and peaceful. Definitely a place for new ideas and to get existing ideas in order.
I love eavesdropping! (probably shouldn’t, but the occasional highlight does make it into my writing ;-)
It’s so lovely up here, it’s going to be hard to leave. I keep dreaming of a little writing shed on a clifside overlooking the ocean. Sigh. I’m so bad with people watching and eavesdropping, I don’t even realize I’m doing it! Ha ha, oh well, I guess it means we’re just naturally observant. ;)
It’s looks wonderful, definitely a place to provide space and creativity x
That’s exactly what I’ve found by coming here. Creative space, and not just with regards to writing, but life too. It’s funny how sometimes we have to get away to reset our priorities and fill the well. :) x
Absolutely! X
Yep have spent too much time with my WIP! Good post – made me think about taking a break
Oh cool, thanks! Getting away was such a good reset for me. As of yesterday, though, back in the rabbit hole. Hoping for a fruitful fall. ;) Hope your wrting is going well and looking forward to your posts.
Thx for the follow :-)
I hope your writing is still going well now you’re back from your retreat. I’ve nominated you for the Starlight Blogger Award. You just have to answer 3 questions and pass the award on. Check it out here: http://clairehuston.wordpress.com/2015/07/30/starlight-blogger-award/
Please ignore me if you’ve already received this award or simply don’t have time. I understand. I’m really bad at writing these sorts of posts! :-)
Thanks so much, Claire! I’m honoured. :D I’ll happily participate. And congratulations to you on being nominated too!
You’re very welcome. Looking forward to your post when you have time to do it… I’m terrible and usually take weeks to respond! :-)
I had a bit of time today and tackled it. :) Your questions were fun! Thanks again!
Beautiful pictures and a break is always nice
Thank you! It was lovely trip. I can’t wait to visit again. Thanks for stopping by! :)