Those Quiet Morning Moments
Mornings hold a special kind of magic, especially before the rest of the world stirs. It’s a time just for me, my thoughts, and a blank canvas eager for the first strokes of the day. I’ve never been one for stringent routines, like the often-touted morning pages. Instead, I cherish the freedom to let my mind meander, jotting down thoughts and sketching in my sketchbook, all while savoring a pot of black coffee in my pajamas, with my cat, Hala lounging nearby. There’s something wonderfully pure about the creativity that flows in these half-asleep moments.
A few years ago, I discovered Merrill Markoe’s article, “How I Stopped Procrastinating,” which celebrates the beauty of easing into the day. Her words resonated deeply, reinforcing the idea that it’s perfectly fine to move at one’s own pace, allowing creativity to unfurl naturally. In a world that often rushes the dawn, it was affirming to find a voice that echoed my belief in the value of slow, introspective mornings.
The Quiet Strength of Being Alone and Introversion
In the solitude of these early hours, I find a peaceful assurance that I’m truly not alone. Being an introvert for me means drawing energy from within, transforming internal reflections and emotions onto paper. These quiet moments are when I most authentically connect with both myself and the world’s subtle whispers.
The Adventure of Sharing
Joining communities like the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, the Society of Illustrators in New York, the South Carolina Writers Association, and Sisters in Crime has been enriching. Each of these groups has welcomed me into a tribe of like-minded souls, offering support, resources, and a sense of belonging.
Inspired by Nature, Travel, and the Human Condition
Nature and travel have been profound sources of inspiration, each journey and landscape offering a new perspective on the world’s beauty and the resilience of nature. My adventures, from hiking the Grand Canyon to exploring Iceland’s lava caves, and the unique experience of getting married in Blind Bay, Antarctica, have rewilded my spirit and deepened my appreciation for the planet’s wonders.
Equally, the human condition—with its complex spectrum of emotions and experiences—continually inspires me. Observing the diverse ways in which people navigate their lives, interact with the natural world, and express their unique stories, provides rich material for my creative endeavors. Whether capturing the silent strength of a mountain or the subtle nuances of human emotions, I find that both nature and humanity offer endless narratives that fuel my passion for storytelling and art.
Finding Inspiration in the Everyday
Life is full of moments that, though small, are rich with inspiration. My mother had a special talent for finding pennies, each one a small treasure, which she lovingly passed on to me. I now leave pennies for others to discover, continuing this tradition of spreading simple joys and unexpected finds. This act reminds me of the profound impact that even the most ordinary things can have on our creative spirit.
Music also has a transformative power, turning difficult situations into sources of inspiration and introspection, as I explored in my story, “Mom, Me, and Brian Wilson.” It’s in these daily experiences, these small yet significant encounters, that we often find the most relatable and touching stories.
I urge you to embrace the seemingly insignificant moments of your life, allowing them to spark your creativity and passion. Let these moments fuel your desire to craft stories and art that resonate and inspire. Consider the minor, often overlooked details of your day—what small things have inspired you? Share them, cherish them, and let them lead you to uncover the hidden narratives that life offers, woven into the very essence of the everyday.
