Embracing the First Day of Summer

Embracing the First Day of Summer: A Season of New Beginnings and Literary Journeys

One week from today, we welcome a new season. Summer is here, and the time is right… not for dancing in the streets, although if that’s your thing, then go for it. But the arrival of a new, potentially slower season, is the perfect time to take that writing project off the back burner, where it has stashed for months, even years.

Now is the time to embark on journeys – both literal and literary. The days are longer, and more relaxed. You may be lucky to have a job that’s transitioning to a hybrid format to reflect a slower pace. Or your kids are away at camp or study abroad and you have more than 1 hour to yourself to pursue something you enjoy. If you’re like me, and you live where summer days are mostly spent indoors due to feels like temperatures of 100 degrees or more, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. are your golden hours.

No matter where you live, summer is a season filled with warmth, on our brows and inside our hearts, adventure, whether we staycation or travel the world, and boundless potential for discovering something new and pursuing long-held passions.

It’s a call to embrace a slower pace, to immerse ourselves in life’s joys, and most importantly, to embark on journeys—both literal and literary.

Travel Journeys: Exploring the World

Summer is synonymous with travel. The allure of exploring new destinations, whether they be sandy beaches, bustling cities, or serene mountains, is irresistible. Traveling opens our minds to diverse cultures, perspectives, and experiences. Each journey we undertake adds a chapter to our life's story, enriching our understanding of the world and our place in it.

Imagine strolling through the cobblestone streets of a quaint European village, hiking through the lush trails of a national park, or simply relaxing by a tranquil lakeside. These experiences not only provide us with a sense of adventure but also offer a treasure trove of inspiration for our creative endeavors.

Literary Journeys: The Power of Books

Just as physical journeys expand our horizons, books have the remarkable ability to take us on incredible adventures without ever leaving our favorite reading nook. A well-crafted story can transport us to far-off lands, introduce us to unforgettable characters, and immerse us in gripping narratives. Through the pages of a book, we can traverse time and space, explore new worlds, and experience a myriad of emotions.

Writing a book is akin to setting off on an uncharted journey. As writers, we become explorers of our own imaginations, mapping out plots, developing characters, and crafting dialogues. Every word we write is a step forward in our adventure, bringing our story to life.

Summer: The Perfect Time to Write

There's something about the slower pace of summer that makes it an ideal time to engage in the writing process. The extended daylight hours provide ample time to write, and the relaxed atmosphere helps to clear our minds, making it easier to tap into our creativity.

If you’re yearning to start that book you’ve always dreamed of writing, summer offers the perfect opportunity. It's a time to set aside our usual routines, embrace the present moment, and dedicate ourselves to our craft. Whether it's early morning writing sessions as the world wakes up or late-night scribbles under the stars, summer's rhythm is conducive to nurturing our creative impulses.

Taking Readers on a Journey

In the spirit of summer and new beginnings, I recently answered an aspiring writer’s question about memoir writing. He wanted to know how to make his memoir less mundane. Here’s a clip from a Facebook Live that I hosted, where I delve into how crafting compelling narratives can transport readers to different realms. I talk about how as writers, it’s our job to invite the reader on a journey into our world. You can watch the video here.

Hopes and Plans for the Season

With one week until the official start of summer, let's set our intentions and make plans that align with our aspirations. Whether it's traveling to a new destination, starting a new book, or simply taking the time to enjoy the simple pleasures of summer, I invite you to embrace this season of possibility.

For those of us embarking on the journey of writing a book, let's remember that every great adventure begins with a single step - or in this case, a single word. I’m excited to share that I recently started a class on writing children’s books with best-selling author, Julia Donaldson. I’m only a third of the way through the 27 lessons, but I’m already inspired, with character ideas percolating and a list of potential stories. Stay tuned!

Let’s make this summer one of creativity, exploration, and fulfillment. Happy summer, and happy writing!