Sunday, September 18, 2011

ROW80 Check-In and Simplicity

Saturday was all about simplicity. Hubby and I packed up some cheese and almonds and went to a wine bar where we sat outside and savored a scrumptious, lush glass of Syrah. Weather was perfect, not too warm, a slight breeze, very few people. Afterwards we walked around the local nursery, just enjoying being among the trees and flowers. Later we enjoyed a nice dinner and settled in around the firepit in the backyard under the pergola with a glass of wine. Very relaxing and a nice day of simplicity.


I could use a little more simplicity in my life.

ROW80 is nearing the end...the 22nd will be this round's final posting. I plan to take some in-depth inventory of what all I accomplished during this writing challenge. It has been an eye-opening experience, and so many good things have come from it, mainly meeting new writers and making new friends.

I used to think that it was okay that I was solitary all the time. I didn't join in many things because I considered my writing so personal and that the last thing other writers wanted to talk about was all the struggles they go through in this business.

Well, I was wrong. By opening up and confiding in others, it has allowed me to feel less alone. It has allowed me to try new adventures and to take risks. This challenge has also helped me to not get too down on myself when I stumble. There are people around to help me get back up and back on track.

I look forward to the next ROW80 challenge. And to continue checking in with new friends :)

Marie
Posted by Marie Andrews at 11:45 AM

13 comments:

  1. EmSeptember 18, 2011 at 12:58 PM

    I love this post! I feel exactly the same about this experience. I planned to keep my writing secret because I feared failure and this experience has been amazing!

    I look forward to the rounds ahead and I look forward to getting to know you more. Brilliant post.

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  2. alberta rossSeptember 18, 2011 at 1:11 PM

    yes agree with all of that - good post - glad you're coming back for more rounds - all the best (your day sounded so restful started turning a little green!:)

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  3. J.R. Pearse NelsonSeptember 18, 2011 at 3:37 PM

    I completely agree! I've met some great new friends through ROW80. It's awesome to be surrounded (virtually) by inspiring people really striving toward their goals. Glad you had fun, too. I'll be back for Round 4 -- hope to see you!

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  4. AnonymousSeptember 18, 2011 at 3:43 PM

    I agree with Em and Alberta, Marie. You've expressed exactly what I've found in this community. Another thing that has struck me is that the published and successful folks are so nice about offering suggestions and support and acting, well, human. It makes me all smarmy and warm. ;)

    Looking forward to continuing our friendship in Round 4!
    Elizabeth

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  5. Marie AndrewsSeptember 19, 2011 at 6:14 AM

    Thanks for stopping by Em! It's wonderful to hear how so many people have enjoyed this experience :) I'm also relieved that I don't feel the need to beat myself up about what I didn't get done, but rather can be grateful for what I did accomplish.

    *hugs*

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  6. Marie AndrewsSeptember 19, 2011 at 6:15 AM

    Lol! Thanks Alberta. I am really great about stressing myself into a tight tiny ball throughout the week, so being able to unwind was most needed :) Thank you for stopping by, it's appreciated!

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  7. Marie AndrewsSeptember 19, 2011 at 6:16 AM

    Wonderful J.R. I look forward to seeing you in round 4 as well :) I agree - this entire challenge has been inspirational because of all the hardworking people who have taken part in it.

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  8. Marie AndrewsSeptember 19, 2011 at 6:18 AM

    Morning Elizabeth! Definitely warm fuzzies all around. Everyone has been cheerleaders and motivators. And so very inspiring. I think I'll tweak things even better for the next round. Hope to see you there :)

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  9. AnonymousSeptember 19, 2011 at 6:20 AM

    I'm the same way--I keep my writing private from the Outside World more or less. I don't like talking about the writing part with anyone except other writers. Thank goodness for ROW80!

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  10. Nadja NotarianiSeptember 19, 2011 at 9:58 AM

    Marie ~
    Simplicity is the key...
    A glass of wine, good food (especially bread! :), and nice conversation with friends or family help us to stay balanced. It's easy to fall into a habit of keeping our writing life and our 'regular' life separate. At least that's what I was attempting at first. But it was only once I realized that I didn't have to compartmentalize the writing aspect of my life that I began to truly enjoy it!
    I'm so glad you'll be joining in again for the next round! ~ Nadja

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  11. Lisa RoseSeptember 20, 2011 at 6:03 AM

    Wow I totally agree. It took me years to share my writing with anyone and I still don't really show it to people in my in-person life (as opposed to online life). Can't wait for the next challenge either! With this kind of support it can only get better :)

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  12. Tia BachSeptember 20, 2011 at 6:50 PM

    Looking forward to connecting more in Round 4. This was my first Round, and I've learned so much about goal planning and needing some support. See you in R4!

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  13. Lena CorazonSeptember 21, 2011 at 1:09 AM

    I agree completely, Marie. So much of my writing life used to be kept under wraps, and shared with only one or two people. The trouble is, those relationships ended up fizzling out for one reason or another, and that left me standing alone with only my own thoughts (and, er, neuroses) for company.

    I have loved getting to know your during this round, and I'm so excited to embark on Round 4 with you. :D

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