Hello, friends! As someone who joined 12 x 12 in 2017 and has enjoyed these monthly author posts ever since, it feels a little surreal to be this month’s featured author! Since these posts usually include a headshot, let’s just start there:
But really, that’s a setup for the picture I actually want to show you, and the one that I think is more important to see— a photo taken from my laptop during a 12 x 12 webinar in early 2017:
I can’t tell you who the featured speaker was. I don’t remember what the topic was, either. However, I very clearly recall both of my children clamoring on and off my lap, trying to do my hair, asking for a snuggle, asking what I was doing, asking who the people on screen were, asking if those people could hear us, asking for a snack . . . you get the idea. I doubt I finished the webinar that day. I probably caught the replay.
The reason I want to juxtapose these two images is to shine a light on the messy imperfection that I (and perhaps you?) wrestle with when trying to carve out space for a creative life—to show and name how a perception (that softly lit, professional headshot) can get in the way of, well, actually writing.
Speaking of actually writing, one of the biggest sticking points for me, for years and years (heck, still) was the perception that real writers have a sacred writing “routine.” I’d long for a dedicated space and a perfect, pretty new notebook and long swaths of uninterrupted time. That’s what I thought real writers had. I thought that when I had those things, that’s when I’d really get started. And, to be totally honest, I still want all those things! And sometimes I get them! (Especially those pretty, perfect notebooks. I will always be on the hunt for those.)
But the reality is that life will always bump up against whatever preconceived notions we have about writing (see: that laptop photo). To finish those ideas floating around in my head, to get those stories down, I had to let go of the notion that writing time had to look a certain way.
In February 2017, shortly before that laptop photo was taken, I started working on what would become my first book, DIGGING FOR WORDS: JOSÉ ALBERTO GUTIÉRREZ AND THE LIBRARY HE BUILT. That story was drafted in little bits and pieces of stolen time, often at an Albuquerque Starbucks off I-40 that was open in the very early mornings, on my way to work.
My second book, PENGUIN JOURNEY, was written shortly after our cross-country move to Vermont, at the kitchen island of an open-concept rental house, with no dedicated writing space to speak of.
And in 2020? Well, I’m sure we all have lots to say about how that went! Any and all routines, out the window. Everyone at home, all the time. Usual writing spots were closed, or didn’t feel safe. I worried a lot about losing momentum and in some ways, I did. I don’t think it would have been possible (or healthy) to maintain a rigid routine. And yet somehow, thanks to a supportive network of writing friends and the encouragement of my editor and agent, I wrote and sold two new picture book biographies during that time.
I’m certainly not saying any of this was easy. And I certainly want to continue to improve, both in terms of my craft and how I practice it. But looking back, it wasn’t adherence to some strict or sacred routine that helped me create these books. It was persistence, and flexibility. The sacred routine was unattainable—and it was stopping me from actually writing. For those of you who face challenges in terms of time, money, and space (either mental or physical)—I just want to say that I see you and want to encourage you to keep going. You can and will find what works, even if it’s not the writing process you think you should practice. Even if it looks different for every book! And if a lovely routine that was humming along falls apart? Know that you can put it back together again, or try something new that might work even better. Your craft and your stories will be there, waiting for you. And you’ll get there, however you need to. The world—the real world—is waiting.
Angela Burke Kunkel is a picture book author, school librarian, and former English Language Arts teacher. After soaking up the sun in the Southwest for a number of years, she now lives in Vermont with her family, two dogs, one guinea pig, and one rapidly-growing bearded dragon (really, it’s rather alarming). Her debut, DIGGING FOR WORDS: JOSÉ ALBERTO GUTIÉRREZ AND THE LIBRARY HE BUILT, received starred reviews from Kirkus and School Library Journal and has been recognized on multiple book lists. Her second book, PENGUIN JOURNEY, will be published this month and has already received a starred review from Kirkus. She has two more nonfiction picture books forthcoming, in 2023 and 2024. You can read more about her work here:
Website: www.angelakunkel.com
Twitter: @angkunkel
Instagram: @angkunkel
Angela is giving away a signed copy of PENGUIN JOURNEY and a signed 5×7 print by illustrator Catherine Odell to October’s check-in winner.
227 Responses
Such a good point! I actually find that when I do get a large swath of uninterrupted time, my writing brain freezes! I’m so used to squeezing writing into small bits of time.
Sometimes those large swaths of time are just too much pressure! I find it easier to “play” in short bursts, too. We just have to do what we can, when we can!
I resonate with this so strongly! Thank you for pointing out that it’s persistence and flexibility that will get us to where we want to go. That reminds me of something a life coach talking about achieving goals pointed out: so often people focus on ability when trying to get something done. But they ignore consistency. You don’t have a choice about how good you are at something. You do have a choice about how often you invest in getting better. Little bits of consistent investment pay dividends. Thanks for sharing part of your story!
I so enjoyed reading your journey, and so relate to the idea of what a writer is and/or should be. i think I’m a squid with my arms in so many different baskets…… but I”m so excited for you! Wow, two books since 2017. Amazing. Congrats!
Thank you so much, LIzzie! And you know, a squid with arms in different baskets is a strong image for a picture book. Best of luck to you!
Great photos and I appreciate the stories surrounding each! Thanks for a helpful post!
You’re so welcome, Melissa! Thank you for reading 🙂
Thank you for sharing and for the video I watched of you pounding out the Penguin story and making it work from some repeated phrases. I think I watched that through SCBWI or 12 by 12 but it was interesting to hear how many back and forth it took. Thanks
Hi Sheri! That was a 12×12 pop-up webinar with Julie and Marcie Colleen, and I’m so glad you found it helpful. Best of luck to you on your writing journey!
Oh, this made me nod and smile. Congrats on making it through to the finish line on two books and selling two more!
Thanks so much, Jilanne!
Thank you SO much for acknowledging how messy the process is: finding a space / not having one…finding time / no time–writing in bits and pieces…having a routine / no routine…Sometimes I feel as if I don’t have the perfect time or place, then I will never write anything publishable. You have shown that is definitely not so.
I’m so glad the post resonated with you, Marcia! You’ll find the time and space when and where you can. Best of luck!
Thank you for sharing this, Angela! Oh, how I relate to the second photo. It made me smile. Congratulations on your books and on your author journey so far!
Thank you so much, Sarah! Glad that others could relate.
This was great for someone like me and my messy life. I know eventually things will happen for me. I’m just going to enjoy the journey and all the chaos involved.
We all have messes, I think— they’re just not always visible when people curate their lives on the Internet. Enjoy the journey!
I loved this post. I can relate as so many of my drafts have been scribbled with a crayon on coloured construction paper. But it gets the job done!
So glad it resonated with you, Maria. Enjoy creating those Crayola drafts!
Love the honesty and humor in this post! So hard to find a routine and always stick to it (and then if you don’t, you beat yourself up). As you said, flexibility is so important. Thanks for sharing your journey and the encouragement. And congrats!
Thank you so much for reading, Kristin! Glad to know you could relate.
Thank you Angela for your encouraging post. I don’t have small children in my home, but I find it hard to consistently write. I appreciate your story.
Congratulations on your picture book success!! 🙂
Everyone definitely has their scheduling challenges, with or without small children. You’ll find the rhythm you need!
Such a fun post. And so true for a writer. There is no right or wrong way. Persistence pays off. Congratulations! Your penguin book looks adorable.
Thanks so much, Chelle! I’m so excited for PENGUIN JOURNEY to be out in the world.
I imagine everyone who reads this will find themselves nodding to themselves. It’s all so very true. And hooray for persistence and flexibility, two too-often undervalued traits! Thank you for sharing this, Angela!
I’m so glad you could relate, Elayne. Thank you for reading!
Thanks for sharing your journey to date. It’s heartening to hear that we are not alone in figuring it out. Congratulations on your books.
Thank you so much, Joyce. I appreciate you taking the time to read and comment!
Flexibility is KEY! Thank you for sharing your very relatable story!
This industry is just too tough to be rigid in our approach! Thanks for reading, Heather!
Angela,
When you’re listing accomplishments and accolades, don’t forget the 2021 Americas Award. I’m excited for the upcoming ceremony. I so love Digging for Words and cannot wait to see PENGUIN. The art is so lovely – and I loved your presentation about the process.
With admiration,
Pat
Hello Pat! Please forgive the (unintentional) omission. I’m so excited about our upcoming event for the Américas Award and very honored by the recognition of José’s story. Looking forward to it, and thank you for reading! -Angela
Thank you for your encouraging post and congratulations on your deserved success.
Thank you so much for reading, Jay.
What a great post! I’m done with beating myself up when my routine goes out of the window. It’s been impossible over the last two years, not only due to you know what! I’ll write when I can, and that’s all one can say. Thank you for your encouraging words, and I hope Penguin Journey is a runaway success.
So true Joan! Let’s expend energy that used to be spent on beating ourselves up to moving forward. Onward!
I love your pictures. You really hit it with that second one. I think we all can relate to it. So happy for your success and encouragement.
So glad you could relate, Pat. Thank you for reading!
Thanks so much for sharing this, Angela. It is good to be reminded that there will never be a perfect time or place, but that we should just dive in anyway!
You’re so welcome Cindy! You are so right, and I continue to need the reminder too— dive on in, rather than waiting for that perfect moment!
Wow, wow, wow! Persistence and flexibility. You are certainly the model for both. I look forward to reading your latest book.
I appreciate that so much, Joyce. Thank you!
Wow, wow, wow! Persistence and flexibility. You are certainly the model for both and more. I look forward to reading your latest book.
Thanks for sharing your imperfectly perfect writing routines. I feel like if you wait for the perfect time and place, you won’t write a single word. Wishing you all the best in your career.
Right, Laurie? What’s the expression? Perfect is the enemy of good?
Best of luck to you as well, and thank you!
Angela, congratulations on your books. I look forward to reading them. Thank you for sharing how you moved from a longing for a lovely routine to something that worked for you. Persistence and flexibility do a lot to reach writing goals.
Thank you so much for reading, YauMei, and enjoy the journey!
Congrats on your books. I love the pictures you juxtapose. I’m sure they resonated with so many of us.
I’m so glad you found the pictures relatable! Thanks so much for reading, Stephanie.
Thanks for sharing your insights, Angela! Can’t wait to read your books.
Thank you so much, Susan!
Such an important post. Thank you for this generous splash of reality!
Thanks for reading, Tina!
Ys, persistence and flexibility. Congratulations on your books! Thanks for sharing you perceptive thoughts.
Thank you so much for reading, Nancy!
Thank you, Angela, for sharing some of your challenges, how you persevered, and encouragement. And congratulations for all your writing success!
So many barriers to getting the work done, yet you did and do. Impressed!
I think we all have them (or find them, when we want to avoid writing). Thanks so much for reading, Claire!
❤️❤️❤️thank you so much. I am so encouraged ❤️. And congratulations!
Thank you for reading, Emmie!
Congratulations on your books! The words ‘carve out space for a creative life’ seems to be the exact words I repeat to myself at the end of each day and put on my list to do for the next day. Only something always gets in the way. Morning pages is my only daily writing habit. I just need to find space to fill in the rest of the things on my creative wish list to do.
Krissy, please don’t discount your morning pages or a daily practice with “only”! I’m sure you’ll find a way to fulfill the rest of your creative wish list in time. And how lucky that we have other goals we keep reaching towards . . .
Lovely message Angela! Thank you for sharing:)
Thank you for reading, Pauline!
Congratulations, Angela! Your books sound amazing! I love your persistence!
Thank you so much, Shaunda!
Congratulations on your books and more books on the way! That’s awesome. I think we all try to eke out time in our schedules for writing. It’s not easy.
It’s definitely a challenge, but I think pursuing creative dreams and goals is so worthwhile. Thank you for reading, Dina!
Thank you for this honest post about the “messy imperfection” of this creative life. Congrats on your books!
Thanks so much for reading, Kari!
I have a new grandson that I help take care of. There is definitely NO routine in my life right now. But I’m still writing when I can and submitting, too. Hang in there!
So true, Marcia! Routines will always be disrupted by the ebb and flow of life— and congrats on your new grandson. How wonderful!
Congratulations on your success! Being flexible with routines is so important these days, if you can. I always try to tell myself that 5 minutes of creating is better than 0 minutes…and the 5 minutes inevitably leads to more.
This, Andrea!!! It’s so much more satisfying to build on momentum (however small) than bemoan not starting at all.
Congratulations, Angela, and thanks for sharing your story. Looking forward to reading your upcoming books.
Thank you so much, Rose!
Angela! What a relief, to read this post! Thank you for reminding us to let go of “the perfect”!
I’m so glad you found it helpful, Patricia! Thank you for reading.
Congratulations on your continuing success, Angela. And thanks for the timely reminder that the “perfect” writing environment and time will never magically appear, but that we can continue on this writing journey regardless.
Absolutely, Patricia! There are roadblocks and bumps in every journey— we might as well get in and get on our way! Thank you so much for reading 🙂
Thank you for this post Angela. It is a helpful reminder as I work to get back into the swing of things and find time to write. Congratulations on your books.
I think we’re all finding our way back in (to whatever “it” is) after the last few years— best of luck in that journey, Maria, and thank you for reading!
I can totally relate, Angela! I am commenting as I sit at the end of what is affectionately known in our house as “The Bowling Alley” but is REALLY a walk-in closet/laundry room/writing space (mainly because I had a desk built into the south wall years ago). And my writing space also serves as a craft table, bill paying center, you name it.
It feels good to know that published authors like yourself feel the same way I do, that life gets in the way of writing at times.
Congratulations on all of your successes!
Margaret, I love the image of your “bowling alley.” Here’s wishing you success in knocking all the pins and barriers down as you write, and thank you for reading!
Hi Angela. You are so right that writing is messy. I used to envy those who would say they had a dedicated time for writing and nothing would be allowed to get in the way. I could never figure out how to do that. When the kids needed something, or the dog needed something or a friend, my husband, my in-laws and… you get the idea. Life inserts itself in many ways. I had to look at things differently. I started to insert myself into my time and found the moments – short or long – throughout the day to write. I’ve given up fretting over having no dedicated time. More power to those who have!
Hear, hear Jane! Life will always insert itself, as it should! I think the image of the uninterrupted writer is something that deserves to be interrogated and demystified. Thank you for reading!
I loved this post! Thank you so much for sharing and for being real. It’s so encouraging! I loved your revision webinar earlier this year. It was awesome to get a behind the scenes look at PENGUIN JOURNEY! Congratulations on your books!! 🙂
Hi Abby! I’m so glad you found the blog post and webinar helpful. Best wishes to you!
Beautifully said, Angela. As beautiful as your books! Writing is my friend, and I make time for my friends!
I love that way of looking at it, Dedra. Thank you so much for your kind words!
Thank you for this wonderful post. I can so relate. I enjoyed reading about your journey. Congratulations!
Thank you for reading, Karin. Glad to know others can relate!
Love your books, Angela. Your process is impressive, carving out writing moments in a busy life.
Thank you so much for reading, Dee.
Thanks for sharing your writing journey, Angela! It’s a great reminder to just write no matter where or how or when. Can’t wait to read your books! Cheers to continued success!
Thank you so much, Jeannette! Let’s all write when and where we can 🙂
Thank you, thank you, thank you for saying this. my internal critic is always telling me that I won’t ever be able to make a writing life unless I have a set routine. That sometimes happens for a few weeks or months, then well, life —— kids, family, friends, work — gets in the way. I keep writing but it’s rarely routine, for better or worse. Your story is reassuring that being messy — in life, in writing — isn’t a bad thing. Congratulations on your latest success! Wishing you many more.
I’m so glad it resonated with you, Fern. To paraphrase Elizabeth Gilbert, those inner critics can come along for the ride, but they’re NOT allowed to drive. Enjoy the journey!
Yes! The space between an “ideal writing life” and a “real writing life” is vast! Thanks for this glimpse of the real!
You’re so right, Belinda! That gap can drive us mad if we let it. Thank you for reading!
Thanks for the encouragement. I had just developed a lovely routine after my own cross country move. . . and then we adopted a puppy. Time for a new routine.
Routines will come and go and can be re-established or even improved. Enjoy that puppy and best of luck!
Congrats, Angela! Thanks for your #kidlit inspiration and message of perseverance. It’s imperative in this business! Wishing you continued success.
To you as well, Carol! Thanks so much for reading and for our fun interview for Writer’s Rumpus 🙂
Thank you, Angela, for sharing such inspirational advice and encouragement. And congratulations on your success!
Dedicated time? Dedicated space? Not yet! And it’s been years, but I did publish a mid-grade novel and I am working on multiple pb stories, but it’s often touch and go. However, I do have a plan to convert part of a room this winter into a dedicated writing space. Only problem…there’s no heat in that room, lol. But I do have a space heater and sweaters and throws. So maybe with a pair of fingerless gloves (like writers of yore) I’ll make it work.
A novel and multiple picture books is not small feat! You have dedication for sure, no matter where the physical space is. And Etsy has some lovely fingerless gloves 😉
Thank you for your lovely post. And for reminding us to be compassionate with ourselves.
Writing is hard enough on it’s own without us being hard on ourselves! Thank you for reading 🙂
Thank you for such an honest post, Angela. Love the photos. And looking forward to reading your books!
Thank you so much for reading, Susan!
As we call it at our group writing hours- whatever works. amazingly inspiring story
Whatever works is right, Swati! That’s how we’ll get it done.
Angela – Congratulations on your books and “hello fellow Vermonter”. Thanks for the acknowledgement that life is hectic and writing hours and approaches never perfect. One just has to work hard and not be afraid to put creations out there. Don’t you like Vermont better than the southwest? At least we have plenty of water especially this summer. Enjoy your journey.
Hi to a fellow local! I’m originally from Vermont so it’s sort of coming home in a sense . . . and I did miss the water, though the desert is its own kind of beautiful.
Angela,
This resonated so strongly with me. You’re right. We all tend to have expectations that simply aren’t. or can’t always be, realistic. Life is forever changing and flexibility – that ‘go with the flow’ mentality – is so important to maintain.
BTW, I can’t wait to read PENGUIN JOURNEY! Ever since watching the Radical Revision webinar, I’ve been waiting to see the finished product.
Congrats on all your new titles and thanks for the encouraging post. Have read it several times already 🙂
Excellent post, Angela, and excellent advice. “It was persistence, and flexibility.” For me, on top of those, it’s adaptability, because life constantly gets in the way. And rather than trying to shove “life” aside, I try to embrace those interruptions, then find ways to write around them, fighting frustration with balance.
I can’t wait to read Penguin Journey – the cover is gorgeous.
Thanks for your thoughts and insight. Now I don’t feel like I need to hire a housekeeper, nanny, and cook in order to have writing time.
I mean I’d still take the housekeeper, cook, and nanny is anyone is offering . . . 😉
Yes, yes, and more yes to all of this! I’m so glad I finally realized this as well — that I will probably NEVER have all the time and space that I want to write and I will never have a perfect routine, but as long as I’m doing something (ANYTHING) that moves the needle forward every day, I’m golden. It’s why (thanks to Julie Hedlund’s inspiring 12 Days of Xmas that she does at the end of the year) I started keeping a spreadsheet of EVERYTHING I do that’s writing-related. I keep track of every draft, every revision, every book I read, every webinar I attend, every class I take, and most importantly, every “surprise” and “success” along the way (big or small) so that by the end of the year I can really SEE how far I’ve come. Little by little, we’ll reach our goals! Thanks for your awesome post and congrats on all your success! 😉
YES to Julie’s 12 Days for Writers! I did it for the first time last year and was so glad I did. I think we all need those moments of pause to restore our love for the craft. Thanks for reading, Rebecca!
I love that you have been so successful through all the chaos of life. Congratulations on your debut and your book coming out soon!
Thank you so much, Kerry! I appreciate you reading!
Great interview! I LOVE the photo of your webinar helpers. That’s real life. When our children were at home, we lived in a house where my desk area-aka dedicated writing space- was along one wall of our open concept dining room. Not the best for peace and quiet. At the time I was working on work-for-hire projects, complete with deadlines. After one particularly interrupted writing time, I finally declared that the “DOOR” was closed. (There was no door, or even a wall.). When my “door” was closed, I was busy and at work. That pretend door really helped! I could hear children and husband (cats, dog…) traipsing past, but they did not stop and ask for snacks, laundry, chit-chat, and so on. I still say that on occasion, though our chicks have long flown the nest. The door is closed!
I love this story of your imaginary door! Here’s hoping we can all carve out that space, even if we have to do it through the power of imagination.
Congrats on your books! Also, thanks for demystifying the sacred writing routine (that it rarely exists).
Thank you for reading, Suzie!
I agree, Angela, about the sacred routine- I have the best of intentions and then life gets in the way. I have now settled on keeping the flame burning and rolling with the punches.
One hundred percent, Mary. That’s really all we can do.
Great post! Thanks for the nudge!
Thanks for reading, Cynthia!
Great post, Angela!! First of all… Welcome to Vermont!! You’ll find the state is jam packed with artists from every artistic bent; writers, painters, sculptors, photographers, weavers, quilters, and woodworkers.
Thank you for giving us a glimpse of your writing journey and for your encouraging words… I’m glad that I’m not the only whose Muse will hang a left when it should have been a right and messed up the whole kit and kaboodle!
Thanks so much for reading and for the welcome (it’s really a move back, and it’s nice to be home).
Thank you, Angela, for acknowledging reality and the truth in writing. You are so spot on and just as an aside, it does not improve with retirement and an empty nest (at least not for me). I think some of my finest thoughts come when I am busy and do not have the time to make a note of them. It is kind of like brilliance found in fireworks than end in a puff of smoke. I am finding reality of writing is the same for everyone, but you were wonderful to share and be truthful.
Marjie, I 100% agree with our best thoughts coming when busy! Maybe it’s similar to the phenomenon of going for a walk? Ideas come when we’re not pursuing them? In any case, thanks for reading and enjoy your creative pursuits AND retirement.
It’s such a central truth that each person must find a way into their own practice. Thanks for sharing your process and your lovely books.
I’m also so curious to see how our ways in to our processes shift over time, as we each grow our respective craft(s)? I appreciate you reading, Tina.
What a writing journey you are on – thank you for sharing your creative life.
Thank you for a great Reality Check. Life always gets in the way (fortunately for us). But for some reason we never expect it to – even when we know better.
Your article is great timing for me. thank you
Love the Pictures and Congratulations on your books
Thanks for this helpful post! Persistence and flexibility – those attributes are truly important! I look forward to your upcoming books!
Love reading your story, and encouragement to just keep plugging along! Really haven’t read of anyone who writes, that doesn’t have something to deal with, time, life, etc, lol, but love hearing your success story, and that you managed getting two books out recently! Congratulations! And thank you for this post!
Thank you, Angela, for this inspirational post! – Persistance and flexibility – YES! Congratulations on your wonderful achievements!
Congrats on your beautiful books. Thanks for this encouraging post!
Such lovely words, Angela. So relatable!
I read your post when it came out, but I don’t think I commented. I love your juxtaposition of the pictures. Congratulations on both of your books!
I love your juxtaposition of the pictures. Congratulations on both of your books!
Thank you, Angela, for sharing your story and for encouraging us to just keep keeping on, and do so even when things aren’t perfect for writing or reading or submitting. I’m looking forward to reading all of your books.
Angela –
Thank you for taking the time to tell us about you. I love your down-to-earthness…..continue good news on all your great books!
Love your persistence and flexibility. I am in awe of your ability to juggle. You are motivating. Thanks!
I really appreciate how you pulled back the curtain for us and let us into the reality of your process. I’m also learning to write with the time I have, the location I’m in, rather than putting things off for the “perfect” time and letting procrastination win. Congratulations on both of your books!
Finding my own place and time to create has always been a struggle. Thanks for sharing how you made it work over the last few years. Congratulations on your successes!
Wow, once again another featured author post that comes right at the exact moment I need it. I had always wanted my own writing space and after rearranging my room/space finally during the pandemic it did help me feel more organized and focused. But I don’t have a writing routine. I feel creativity and writing doesn’t always work that way, especially in the very beginning when you’re writing that draft. It takes time, pauses, reflection, and what not. I write when I can everyday or at least jot down ideas. Thanks for sharing!
Ideas spring up when I least expect. Jotting them down and returning to them when time permits is my oddball routine. Thanks for sharing your chaos and still getting the writing done. Inspirational! And congrats on your new books.
“Persistence and Flexibility are the key” Thank you for sharing your inspirational story.
Thanks for being the featured author with your great advice.
Great post! And congrats on Penguin Journey—it is so beautiful!😍
Thanks so much for an honest and bouncy happy share.
Thanks Angela for your inspiring thoughts. Best as you continue to write.
Thanks for a post that reminds everyone about persistence and flexibility. Good luck with the next project!
Love this post! I go back and forth between really craving a routine, and just squeezing it in when I can, depending on what time of year it is and where my creative energy is at. I try to just enjoy all of it. 🙂 Love Digging for Words and can’t wait to check out Penguin Journey!
Angela,
Thanks for sharing your journey and your lovely books. I made the cross-country trek to Vermont, as well. Welcome! Hope to meet you in person some day, when such things return. I live in Middlesex. You’ve probably already figured out that there are lots of wonderful writers in Vermont. Glad we’ve gained another!
It felt reassuring to hear a successful author discuss a lack of routine. Now I don’t have to feel as guilty! Thank you, Angela.
Thank you for this encouragement! Your writing life looks a lot like mine. It’s nice to know getting published is still possible past all the distractions of being mom!
I’m learning that there is no perfect way to do this writing thing!!
I’m learning that there is no perfect way to do this writing thing!! Thank you
I appreciated your authenticity!! So relatable!! Congratulations on your books and many more to come!
I take care of my grandbaby a lot. I totally understand not being able to follow a routine or plan any time to write!
I so relate to this post. Maybe I CAN find time if I let myself take advantage of even just a few minutes here and there. Thank you for that inspiring perspective!
ANGELA,
Thanks for such an insightful post. I am trying to remember that the writing takes the time it takes, and the practice doesn’t always look the way I think it should. Persistence and flexibility- great attributes that carry us through writing and life.
Excellent post. Thanks for sharing your writing journey. It’s not all about the where, when, and how, is it? It’s about just doing it, just writing where, when and how you can. Congratulations on your successes.
It is always difficult to stick to a routine but I do always try to find the time to write my stories. Writers write, as they say, but life often does interfere & I sometimes have to find the time to fit my writing into a busy schedule. Loved the post!
Thank you for sharing this – the imperfection of creativity. 🙂
Yes, thank you for this. We just keep going, however that looks, and it looks different for all of us! It is so refreshing to hear your story. Congratulations on your books!
Thanks for sharing your story, Angela. I watched your 12×12 webinar and can’t wait to get my hands on a copy of Penguin Journey to share with my grandkids!
Angela-
Thanks for sharing how you carve out your writing time and such an accomplishment to have two books published! Congratulations!
Marianne
Thank you for sharing your writing journey, and the reminder a writing routine looks different for everyone. Congratulations on your books!
Thanks so much for sharing about PENGUIN JOURNEY, Angela!! This was a fantastic read!
I have a few photos like the second one!
Thank you for sharing your experience. Writing in spurts instead of at the perfect time in the perfect place has helped me too.
Yes, thank you for sharing your writing journey. I love the Penguin Book so warm and family friendly. As a teacher love reading penguins stories to early learners and doing counting activities or simple math games. Need to find some penguin counters. Good luck with all writing. Will post on FB and Twitter.
I also crave a “sacred writing routine.” Oh, that would be a dream! And I do think it will improve my productivity. But, for now, I need to give myself some grace, carve a bit of time each week, and stay positive! Thanks for your post. I love your books.
Love your message in your post. Congratulations on your books.
Can’t wait to read them.
Happy revisions to all,
Debbie Lodato
Thanks for sharing your story, and congratulations on your success. I actually just performed in a dance piece inspired by emperor penguins, so I’m especially excited to read your newest book!
My writing journey is far different from everyone else I know. I can’t set aside time. I have to write when the story is there, and I never know when that is going to be. Thanks for sharing your journey and congrats on your successful publishing!
So beautifully said. Thank you for saying something as forgiving as write when you can, in any way you can, and the writing will be there for you. Awesome sauce!
Thank you for this post, Angela! It really helped to hear about the need for flexibility combined with persistence, not a strict routine. I’ve depended on a routine to motivate me and sometimes I just need to break away from all of that to be creative.
OMG that second picture is priceless and soooo relatable. Thank you for being real with us, Angela! Very inspiring.
OMG that second picture is priceless and soooo relatable. Thank you for being real with us, Angela!
Very inspiring.
Two books. Yay! Congratulations! I can also credit Starbucks in my town for many new and revised stories. Thank you for sharing your journey.
Thanks so much for such an encouraging post.
Thank you! So real. So true. Trying to find those spots of time in my day. Sigh. But like you, sold a book in 2020 and thankful as I simply do as I can 😉
I remember writing in my car while I waited for my son to finish his early morning Spanish class, and at my kid’s soccer practice. I don’t have to do that, anymore, but it was amazing what I could accomplish when I was forced to. Thanks for the reminder, you are an inspiration!
Persistence and flexibility certainly are the key. Thank you for this post.
Thanks for this post! It’s nice to see that you’ve found success even with the messiness and business of life! I find that when I set aside time to write, other things – or procrastination often comes up. But then there will be an odd moment where it just works out. Creativity finds a way. 😊
I LOVED Digging for Words! Enjoyed the 12×12 pop up and hearing about the detailed editing process for Penguin Journey and look forward to reading it!
Angela,
Thanks for sharing. I can totally relate to your story of thinking you’re going to be able to write like a fiend once you find a space; dedicated period of time; peace and quiet; no pressure, etc. It just doesn’t work that way, and waiting for things to be perfect could mean waiting a long, long time. Congrats on your books. Can’t wait to read!
Ann
I’m just glad I found 12×12 this year. Or I wouldn’t not even have this path to take. My last kid just turned 18 and I still feel this way! I guess I just need to slow down and smell the roses for a bit. . .take a deep breath and move forward.
Thank you for inspiring us to grab bits of time to write and not wait for the perfect moment. Congratulations on all your success!
I love DIGGING FOR WORD–and pretty notebooks!
Thank you for sharing, Angela! I also wish that I had long blocks of time to write, but have to find smaller chunks of available time. Thanks for the encouragement!
Thanks Angela! I love that you share about write where you can and when you can. I know I’ve heard authors talk about rising early, starting to write, and taking a break…but real life often interrupts our blocks of time…so thanks for the encouragement!
Kudos to any parent of at-home children who manage to write.
Digging for Words is wonderful. I look forward to reading your other bios and Penguin Journey.
Congrats, Angela, on your books, and also for your inspiring post. I’m trying to carpe diem the heck out of those precious writing opportunities when they strike!
Angela – Loved Digging for Words and since I love anything penguin, I’ll probably love a Penguin Journey as well. I look forward to your next book about the author of Make Way (for Ducks). I was at that 12×12 webinar too and remember that image of you with your children. You are absolutely right about our journey: expect the unexpected and just keep going anyway you can. Thanks for the encouraging words.
Congrats on two beautiful books, Angela! Thank you for sharing your process. My writing isn’t a sacred routine either, but the act of writing holds some sacredness, whenever it occurs! 🙂 Thanks for sharing about your process–it is encouraging.
Angela, your post felt like an intimate conversation over coffee with a close friend….so personable and inspiring!
Reviewing the comments, I see we are not alone in our struggle to have regular writing times. Yet, we persevere.
Thank you for the encouragement to be persistent and to be flexible. Your success gives me and so many others great hope.
Congratulations!
Angela,
I npticed you responded to so many posts. I loved your first book about the library in Bogata. Such heart Jose Guiterez had. You practice self compassion. So important for all of us to do.
Sue
This is all so true! Mom of three here and I write in fits and starts but I do love it when I manage to find time and write! Thank heavens for post-its for those on the fly, making lunch and doing someone’s spelling practice and an idea hits you moments! Congrats on your successes and perseverance!
Persistence and Flexibility. Yep. I need to hear those two words over and over, Angela. Your blog gives me hope that I can achieve some of my KidLit goals even though my technique may not be pretty and on-the-clock. The Flexibility part is easier for me. Imposter Syndrome slows me down and eats away at my ability to persist. But I haven’t given up yet. 12X12 and testimonies like yours helps me keep going.
Thanks so much, Angela!
This post resonates with me 100%. Wanting perfect writing time has frozen me repeatedly, but when I can just accept the chaos and work with what I have and the snippets of free time that come to me, I am so much happier and get more written! Thank you!
What a fun peek into your writing life! The picture of your first webinar is fun. Excited to read your books.
Yup, yup, yup… I 100% hear this notion of a dedicated space, some semblance of a writing routine – all that and the part, too, where I haven’t attained them. But I also hear the part about being flexible and forgiving. Congrats on your success & making it happen!
Encouraging words for sure! Congrats on your wonderful books!
“I was trying to find meaning in ordinary things and turn them into something special and worthy of storytelling.”
Wow… this line really resonates with me.
Thank you for shairing, Hope!
Oops! Sorry, Angela, for my above post. Your article (not the one from January I was accidentally reading, yet replying to your post) is actually perfect to highlight my mistake.
I have recently created the perfect writing space at home. But I’m not at home now (I’m on a ship crossing the Atlantic, trying to squeeze in work and writing time.). So I don’t have my normal routine, computer, huge double monitors, etc. So I just got mixed up in this ‘new, temprary’ environment.
We all need to adapt our routine, and how it looks can vary with each book, like you said (or each vacation- like me right now).
Thank you for sharing, Angela!
I totally relate Angela! Many days, I brainstorm in my morning shower or on my walks to the park or supermarket. I voice text myself and then type and edit later that night. The killing two birds with one stone approach seems to work well for me. We all do what we can and I’m so happy to hear that even accomplished authors, like yourself, deal with the same issues. Thank you! And Congratulations on your success!
Thank you for sharing. We needed the reality check.
Angela,
Thank you for such an encouraging and authentic post! I am in the throws of parenting three little boys right now, and I can so relate to what you said here!
Never give up on those beautiful notebooks! I agree that they are mandatory, especially when the rest of this journey is chaos. Congratulations on your beautiful books!
Thank you, Angela for sharing your inspiration and painting a picture of reality! I resonated with so much in your post. One of the hardest things is the internal struggle of prioritizing my creative time, and simply saying “no” — whether it be social, or just chores around the house. Congratulations on your two new books too! Good luck to you!
Thank you for your encouraging post. So much resonated. And so much of this work is messy and fun. Congrats on your books!
Angela, your post hit the spot! And boy, there are so many versions of messy that life can toss our way, or plunk down in our laps!
Now I’m eager to visit your penguins, in your book. Their lives and your telling of it! Thanks and more power to you!
Linda
Angela, thank you for the encouraging post. I needed that! I’m trying to get back on track after being derailed for a few months and I’m happy to have at least done a revision this month.
Thank you for sharing your story Angela – and inspiring us to just keep on going!
This post was so encouraging to me and even made me smile several times! Thank you Angela!