Family Story & Civil War Workshop

I held my Family Story & Civil War Workshop a few days ago. Had a fun time, but it's good I'm flexible and have had lots of experience with different types of writing.


Those attending were interested in writing poetry and stories for children, not so much based on family stories and Civil War research. Since I've written and been published in both these areas, I brought them information in their fields while I also taught them how to incorporate family and personal experiences into mix.

Also, as I showed them how I used some of my Civil War research for this type of writing, perhaps I also gave them ideas for research in case they developed "writer's block" with what they were doing.

Teaching writing workshops of any type is enjoyable for me. I like to inspire and encourage other writers. In the midst of doing this, I often find inspiration myself.

Teaching Family History Writing Classes

What fun I've had recently, teaching family history workshops at Mansfield's Books & More. People need to save their family stories for future generations. I enjoy reading about my ancestors and their lives in letters and story.

"Mom, you must write down the stories of your life," my daughter said.

This got me thinking about teaching others how to do it, whether they want to be publicly published or write simply for family reading. I'm also planning on doing some online classes. I'd like to develop a workshop I can teach to groups via Skype or ooVoo.

Any suggestions? Or interest?

Finding Time for Writing

I find the time for my writing with current deadlines...like my b5 media blogs and Country Kitchen columns. However, finding time for my other writing projects, midst substitute teaching, working at the deli, and helping Jim with our business, seems to go by the wayside.

I must, this summer, squeeze in more than hit-and-miss time if I'm to finish:

• Sarah Jane picture book
• Papa Goes to War chapter book
• Uncle Buffalo Bill picture book
• Promoting my Family Story Writing classes

Decide upon a direction....and focus until I'm finished!