I have not been writing.
I think about writing all the time. I plan outlines and schedules, every week, then discard them in favor of errands and yard work. I compose poem fragments in my head as I fold laundry, then move on to my next task without pausing to write them down.
For most of the last two years, I have been a writer who does not write.
I can’t claim writer’s block, because the words are there. In fact, I’m somewhat surprised by the words’ persistence. I’ve been ignoring them for a very, very long time, and they continue to clamor for attention. It’s like being under siege.
Over this past month, the words began to win. I looked at the HRW conference website two or three times. I read through the schedule. I printed the registration form.
I decided to submit a short story and poem to the free contests and spent a few days revising my entries. Then I decided to submit the first ten pages of my stalled work-in-progress for the optional critique and spent a few more days revising. Before I knew it, I had fallen into a routine. I was writing again. Every day.
My registration packet is in the mail, and I’m still writing. Every day. I don’t know if my renewed focus will last, because I went through a similar surge last year after returning home from the conference. But, for now, the words have won. I am a writer who writes.
Rae Spencer 
So glad you are writing, Rae! I understand how the ‘excuses’ happen … life happens. I think the advice to write something every day is sound. You are a wonderful writer, so I hope the words keep coming! It feels good when they win, doesn’t it? 🙂
I understand completely where you are coming from so I am cheering you on more than I can say! As someone said to me the other day, it’s time to get back in the game! 🙂
The pictures are terrific! I can relate to being a writer who isn’t writing. I seem to find every excuse not to sit down and write. I have the words and the time, but they are not getting together. So glad you are back to writing. Hope you enjoy the conference.
Welcome back! : )
Thank you! 🙂
Summer time is hard. The outdoors always call.
Rae, I imagine a lot of writers can relate to this work of art with wonderful Dragon Flies (sp)? It resonates with me for sure but so far I will do anything to avoid writing so I haven’t come close to where you are. I just know you’ll win prizes at the conference. I don’t think I’ll be going this year – still haven’t recovered fully from the fall I had in March. I am delighted for you that you’re back doing what you do so well! Love, Jeanette
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Sometimes the well fills slowly. Sometimes life comes first.