Newbie!

Hello, I subscribed to Writer e-newsletter a week ago and love it. I seriously needed some inspiration and ideas to kick this dreaded writer's block/burnout that's plagued me for almost two years. I love to write for the joy of it, not necessarily for monetary reasons, though I haven't ruled out selling a short story or essay. Years ago I started writing fan fiction then tried my hand at original fantasy and speculative fiction, but now the joy seems to have disappeared. My dad passed away four years ago, and I'm still not out of the grieving process. We were very close, and the rest of the family hasn't been very supportive of my creative efforts to deal the loss. I'm assuming Dad was my muse and as long as I had him around the words flowed from my brain onto paper.  I sought out writing forums like this to help get the groove back. The stories are still locked in my head and need to get out.

Welcome and let me say that writing is good therapy for your loss. Both of my parents passed within two weeks of eachother recently and it does (will) take time. One thing that works for me are writing prompts, this magazine gives some good ones, and reading books about writing. A good place to find some cheap are the local library book sales. For a busk or two it's very easy to take a chance on a book that isn't what you would normally buy.

the second thing is that you have to make yourself write something everyday, even if its just a few words. It helps you to make it a routine in your mind and the words will follow. They do that sometimes....words seem to be attracted to routines like my dad's "gold" tie clips were attracted to magnets.

heads up pencils down.....or the other way around