January 18, 2024 8:30 am
by Caron Levis
Sometimes I hide from inspiration.
Usually there’s nothing that makes me more present and joyful than collecting fresh drops of ideas. Tinkering with ideas—and working on the ones that trumpet, squawk, neigh, yawn, or cry the loudest—is what grounds and propels me through life. However, at times when mucky emotions overwhelm me, inspiration oddly feels exhausting, and I tend to stick my head in the sand. Once I hid so long, it seemed like my ideas had given up waiting and dried up. Scary. But uncollected inspiration never actually goes away and as Auntie Em says to elephant siblings Ely and Enid in MIGHTY MUDDY US, even during a drought “there is always water somewhere underground to sniff out and dig up.” Here are some ways I search for water on the tougher days.
Play in the Mud: One of the stickiest pieces of advice came from an acting teacher long ago. I had trouble finding my way to acting joyful if I felt sad. My teacher said, “start where you are, not where you want to be.” So, instead of trying to escape my current state, I allow myself to wallow, explore, get curious about it and see how it transforms.
Dig: Use writing prompts such as My Mud Is Made Of… or My Emotional Shape is… These can clear a path for inspiration or even give you some words, phrases, or ideas.
Roll the Ball: hope and ideas will follow. In Ida, Always, after the death of his friend, polar bear Gus hides with his grief in shadows. Eventually he begins to roll Ida’s favorite ball and his grief begins to take a new shape. Sometimes you need to act playful before you can feel playful. This concept of acting first, feeling later is one I turn to and play with a lot in my Act-Like-A-Writer workshops.
Dig: physically do something simple that brought you joy as a child or as an adult—even if you don’t feel like it. Get suggestions from friends too. (Thank you Tara for reminding me to discover new Absurd Words!)
“Be a Spy for Hope”: I have this (slightly abbreviated) quote from Katherine Patterson tacked to my bulletin board alongside the advice from Kate DiCamillo “Do Not Hope, Observe.” Spying and observing are actions we can take to find ideas.
Dig: Your mission is to walk, ride, or sit for twenty to forty minutes and collect one to five juicy images/sounds of hope. I once spied a child in a stroller fighting sleep as an ever-growing yawn took over. This was one of the raindrops for Stop That Yawn! Illustrated by LeUyen Pham.
Follow the Interrupting Ducks! I mean storks! I mean ideas! When I was looking for a new story for the feeling-friends collection with Charles Santoso, I got stuck for months working on one idea. One day my aunt sent me, “a cute video about ducks.” It turned out those ducks were storks with an incredible story. I allowed myself to take a break and follow the storks…all the way to Feathers Together. While we want to commit and be wary of sirens, sometimes the ducks can waddle you in the right direction.
Dig: When a new idea flies in at the “wrong” time, give yourself one hour, day, or week to explore it. If its pieces are coming together (and you aren’t in contract for the other!) keep going, keep it as your on-the-side project, or store for later.
Dedication Inspiration: In MIGHTY MUDDY US, Enid gets lost in a dust storm—and it’s by answering Ely’s call that she finds her way out of it. On dusty days, I think of someone I want to write for. This helps me generate a list of new ideas or find a fresh take on an oldie. The search for ideas that became THIS WAY, CHARLIE, FEATHERS TOGETHER, and MIGHTY MUDDY US was largely inspired by Charles Santoso and his heartfelt art. My niece and nephews are responsible for what I’m revising now.
Dig: Dedicate your daily writing or idea gathering session to someone you care about. Report back on what you came up with for them.
Enjoy your Mighty Muddy Storystorm!
Tooo-Weeee!
Caron Levis is giving away three limited edition prints of the characters in MIGHTY MUDDY US, created by Charles Santoso, to three separate winners.
You’re eligible to win if you’re a registered Storystorm 2024 participant and you have commented only once on today’s blog post.
Prizes will be distributed at the conclusion of Storystorm.
Caron Levis (MFA; LMSW) is the author of several picture books including the award winning Feeling-Friends collection illustrated by Charles Santoso: MIGHTY MUDDY US, FEATHERS TOGETHER, THIS WAY, CHARLIE (Abrams) and IDA, ALWAYS (Atheneum/S&S) which the New York Times Book Review calls, “an example of children’s books at their best.” Other titles include Stop That Yawn! (Atheneum/S&S.) Caron is the Coordinator and a Professor for The New School’s Writing for Children/YA MFA program. She has over 20 years as a Creative SEL/Literacy skills educator and uses a blend of drama and writing techniques to create a variety of interactive workshops for children and adults. Caron was born, raised, and currently lives in New York City. One of her favorite adventures was flying in a hot air balloon at sunrise. Writing short things takes her a long time. Visit her at CaronLevis.com.
Posted by Tara Lazar
Categories: STORYSTORM 2024
Tags: Caron Levis, Charles Santoso, FEATHERS TOGETHER, IDA ALWAYS, MIGHTY MUDDY US, THIS WAY CHARLIE
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“Start where you are” is great advice! Thank you for sharing. I am inspired to explore this concept.
By sburdorf on January 18, 2024 at 8:44 am
Thank you, Caron for this mighty post.
“Do not hope, observe.” Great advice from one of my favorite authors, K. DiCamillo.
By Mark Bentz on January 18, 2024 at 8:47 am
Congratulations on your beautiful books! They sound amazing. Thank you for the tips!
By anchance on January 18, 2024 at 8:49 am
Thanks for the inspiring ideas
Also, I love the title Mighty Muddy Us. Can’t wait to read it.
By lhofke on January 18, 2024 at 9:22 am
Great advice. Yesterday, throwing baskets backwards at the hoop, opened a portal allowing an idea to spring forth through the winter sub-zero doldrums. Play and shifting perspective have an amazing effect.
By sarahpeacetobias on January 18, 2024 at 8:53 am
Thank you. I am particularly gravitating towards the “Dedication Inspiration” practice. This would be helpful daily while writing.
By Becky Goodman on January 18, 2024 at 8:57 am
Love your tips !
Be playful, curious and in the moment.
Sounds like getting in touch with your inner child ! (a perfect place to start when writing for kids. 😉).
By Susie on January 18, 2024 at 8:57 am
Thanks Caron for inspiring me to keep my head out of the mud but to keep playing!
By Jany Campana on January 18, 2024 at 9:02 am
Thank you, Caron! I especially love the suggestions about observing and being playful – great ways to get unstuck.
By rosecappelli on January 18, 2024 at 9:05 am
I have an “Interrupting Duck” at the moment, so I’m going to plan to follow it this weekend and see what it has to say. Thanks for all the fantastic inspiration!
By Rebecca Colby on January 18, 2024 at 9:05 am
Thanks for your ideas and tips.
By Eileen Saunders on January 18, 2024 at 9:08 am
Great advice on finding inspiration! Thinking of the dedication is one I plan on using when revisiting some old manuscripts. Thank you!
By hansenjc13 on January 18, 2024 at 9:10 am
I love these tips/prompts–even when they contradict each other. And I adore Ida, Always. Thanks, Caron!
By Laura Purdie Salas on January 18, 2024 at 9:10 am
Thanks for the advice! I especially love the idea “roll the ball”. Some of my favorite ideas have popped up while playing.
By Julie Hauswirth on January 18, 2024 at 9:12 am
Great post Caron
By steveheron on January 18, 2024 at 9:16 am
Thanks to Caron for the wonderful tips & inspiration! 💕
By SandraL on January 18, 2024 at 9:16 am
Thank you for sharing! So many great prompts here. I especially like “My emotional shape is” and will use that to develop today’s idea(s).
By Jennifer on January 18, 2024 at 9:17 am
Thanks so much for showing how we might get un-stuck, Caron! Sometimes, you just have to back up to find another way in.
By Andria Rosenbaum on January 18, 2024 at 9:24 am
Thank you the different stategies to help my writing be enriched and my ideas flow. I like the stategy of giving an idea a little time to see where it will go even if it is not the path I was on.
By lynnpesicka on January 18, 2024 at 9:26 am
My mom has a big milestone birthday coming up that she’s not happy about. I now have an idea for how to turn that into a picture book. Thanks!
By krharrellnw on January 18, 2024 at 9:26 am
Love this advice to physical do something you enjoyed as a child. The reminder that we need to physically be in the world to create things about it is such a helpful one.
By Melissa H. Mwai on January 18, 2024 at 9:29 am
Thanks for giving us inspiration for when we are stuck!
By daydreambelievin on January 18, 2024 at 9:29 am
Also the expression of the elephants on your book covers are amazing. The winner of the limited edition print is going to be so lucky!
By Melissa H. Mwai on January 18, 2024 at 9:30 am
Thanks for reading Melissa;) Charles is just exquisite as always.
By caron levis on February 1, 2024 at 5:29 pm
Great tips! Thank you for all of these, especially “start where you are.” We often have ideas of where we should be, but would be better off starting in the right place. Thank you!
By Genevieve Gorback on January 18, 2024 at 9:31 am
I love the cover of your book! Congrats. Thanks for the inspiration!
P.S. My sister’s name is Caron! Don’t find many people with that spelling.
By leslieevatayloe on January 18, 2024 at 9:31 am
Tooo-Weeee! Tooo-Weeee!
By Steph Lau on January 21, 2024 at 2:14 am
How fun! It is a rare one. Wave to her:)
By caron levis on February 1, 2024 at 5:29 pm
I love these getting unstuck methods! Thank you for sharing the inspiration!
By ptnozell on January 18, 2024 at 9:32 am
Start where you are and observe don’t hope – love these! Thank you, Caron, for the inspiration and for sharing your process. Congratulations on your latest book!
By Donna Rossman on January 18, 2024 at 9:33 am
Thank you Caron! I love the idea to spy and observe. I never really thought about collecting/observing sounds but I look forward to giving that one a try. I can’t wait to see what ideas are ignited. Thanks again!
By jbbower on January 18, 2024 at 9:33 am
This hit me at the right moment. Discombobulated is how I’m feeling. Someone told me. Don’t wait until you feel good to do something. Do something first the feeling good will follow.
By kiwijenny on January 18, 2024 at 9:35 am
Super tips, Caron! I love thinking of someone I want to write for …that’s where it all starts. Truly appreciate your wise words – thanks so much for sharing!
By Deborah Agranat Sullivan on January 18, 2024 at 9:35 am
The idea of looking for hope is especially wonderful. Thank you!
By jessaroux on January 18, 2024 at 9:38 am
I love all of your heartfelt books! Thanks for the great writing tips, especially how to write when you’re not feeling it!
By Nancy Roe Pimm on January 18, 2024 at 9:39 am
Caron, your acting/writing combination is new to me! I’m going to try it. Thank you.
By amyhouts on January 18, 2024 at 9:40 am
Thank you for your terrific tips! You have amazing ideas, Caron! Congrats on your books.
By Robin Brett Wechsler on January 18, 2024 at 9:41 am
This quote. Caron!
“Scary. But uncollected inspiration never actually goes away and as Auntie Em says to elephant siblings Ely and Enid in MIGHTY MUDDY US, even during a drought ‘there is always water somewhere underground to sniff out and dig up’ .”
Ty for all these wonderful ways through those times when work lacks joy and life feels like trudging through muck!
By kathalsey on January 18, 2024 at 9:41 am
Great suggestions, Caron! I especially love your “Start from where you are” & “Be a spy for hope” ideas. I also plan to dedicate my stories & ideas to someone I know. Today’s idea will be dedicated to my great nieces. Thanks for the post!
By gregoryfulgione on January 18, 2024 at 9:43 am
Such perfect advice today to start where you are. Applicable to so much of life too! Thank you for sharing
By Laura Baukol on January 18, 2024 at 9:44 am
I really like these ideas. Thanks, Caron.
I’m always inspired by elephants!
And mud…😉
By Cathy Lentes on January 18, 2024 at 9:44 am
Love the relation to acting technique. I studied acting and writing, because characters are what I love and character driven stories. Thanks for the inspiration!
By aubreyalliethewriter on January 18, 2024 at 9:44 am
Thank you, Caron for sharing your inspiration techniques! I look forward to trying them out. Thank you also for your great writing tips!
By Denise Gallagher on January 18, 2024 at 9:46 am
Great ideas for finding ideas! Thanks Caron.
By Carol Gwin Nelson on January 18, 2024 at 9:50 am
Thanks for sharing your many wonderful ways to inspire and motivate the creative writing process, Caron. Prompting, persevering, observing and following new ideas or personal sources of inspiration are all useful tips. Congratulations on your many beautiful, heartfelt PBs!
By Lucretia Schafroth on January 18, 2024 at 9:50 am
Caron, I actually read Ida Always when I was studying grief books for children. I was writing my own children’s book about organ donation–a super hard and complex topic to write about, especially for children who have to somehow been affected by it (the book is coming out this spring). I’m grateful to you for writing Ida Always! Such a beautiful book!
By Rachelle Burk on January 18, 2024 at 9:52 am
Oh that sounds wonderful. I’ll look out for it. That means a lot you included Ida in your process
By caron levis on February 1, 2024 at 5:31 pm
So many great suggestions for finding fresh ideas! Thank you, Caron!
By Patti Richards, Children's Author on January 18, 2024 at 9:53 am
Caron, I appreciate your thoughtful approach, appreciate the reminder to never stop observing even when you’re feeling down, & look forward to reading your animal feeling-friends books!
By Katherine Pew on January 18, 2024 at 9:53 am
Thank you! Putting all of these into my toolkit right now. Especially love the challenge to play something you loved as a kid
By Jennifer on January 18, 2024 at 9:53 am
“Sometimes you need to act playful before you can feel playful.” So simple, yet so profound. I love this!
By rgstones on January 18, 2024 at 9:56 am
Thanks for these techniques! They resonated with me and I look forward to trying them out.
By Jessica Coupé on January 18, 2024 at 9:56 am
Thanks so much for your thoughtful insights and words of wisdom! I look forward to playing in my mud!
By clcoate on January 18, 2024 at 9:56 am
Great advice. Today I’m going to write for 8-year-old me, I think.
By Debbie Tullos on January 18, 2024 at 9:59 am
What a treasure trove of brilliant strategies for finding story ideas mingled with hope and joy. Thank you!
By Kathryn LeRoy on January 18, 2024 at 10:00 am
I love the idea of being a spy for hope! Thank you for sharing that one. I’d love to win your book! 📕 💃🏾
By Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young on January 18, 2024 at 10:00 am
I can’t wait to play in the mud! Thank you for the great strategies!
By kelliearted on January 18, 2024 at 10:02 am
Great ideas. I love the idea of keeping a few ideas on the side. Thanks!
By millerritam on January 18, 2024 at 10:02 am
Caron, I LOVE these ideas. Thank you so much for this inspiring post. I can’t wait to try all of these out. I actually already have two ideas in my head. 🙂
By Lindsey Aduskevich on January 18, 2024 at 10:05 am
Thanks for these thoughtful prompts that invite us to be wherever we are in the present and to also invite us to reflect on the past. And how cool, you have ridden in a hot air ballon?! Do you plan to write a book about that experience one day if you haven’t already?
By bookclubhbhs on January 18, 2024 at 10:06 am
You know, I’ve had a hot air balloon idea on my list since I went. Thanks for the prompt to maybe dig it out and see if I can get it up in the air:)
By caron levis on February 1, 2024 at 5:27 pm
Very exciting! Sounds like such an amazing experience to have and to create a story around! Happy writing!
By bookclubhbhs on February 2, 2024 at 12:00 am
So many great ideas for when we get stuck, especially your last one of dedicating your day of writing to someone you love. Thanks, Caron!
By pathaap on January 18, 2024 at 10:06 am
Thanks for sharing your wonderful ideas on getting unstuck, Caron! I can’t wait to try out your tips.
By Teresa Rodrigues on January 18, 2024 at 10:07 am
Thank you, Caron!
By Melissa McDaniel on January 18, 2024 at 10:07 am
Wonderful advice, Caron! I saw a quote from Kate DiCamillo one time that was about simply having your eyes open to the world around you. There are stories everywhere, we just need to give ourselves the time and the space to see them. I love your prompts and I’m saving them for future reference! Thank you!
By Jessica Iwanski on January 18, 2024 at 10:08 am
I like the redirect here, instead of pushing against it go with it – there is still water!
By reedandwritekids on January 18, 2024 at 10:08 am
Thank you, Caron, for the inspiration! So many great ideas!
By ccspizzirri on January 18, 2024 at 10:13 am
These are all great ideas! Thanks so much for sharing them. Can’t wait to read your books.
By serendipityinstars on January 18, 2024 at 10:14 am
“Act first, feel later” is more helpful than its better-known cousin, “Fake it till you make it”–would you all agree?
By audiencedog on January 18, 2024 at 10:16 am
Wonderful tips for finding inspiration when mired in the muck. Thank you, Caron.
By Erin Rew on January 18, 2024 at 10:16 am
Thanks, Caron, for your inspiring suggestions on idea generation. I’m now reenergized to restart my spying and observing!
By Suzanne Lewis on January 18, 2024 at 10:17 am
All you’ve said really resonated with me, especially Be a Spy for Hope. For me, that’s a new way of looking at things. Thanks!
By julianamjones728 on January 18, 2024 at 10:22 am
Wow, this is a treasure trove of great strategies! Also, Mighty Muddy Us looks absolutely gorgeous!
By kirstenbockblog on January 18, 2024 at 10:23 am
Thank you, Carson! I love your books!
By lorimkeatingyahoocom on January 18, 2024 at 10:23 am
Thinking of someone to write for is a great idea I haven’t tried in a while…thanks for the reminder!
By Tanya Konerman on January 18, 2024 at 10:23 am
Love your books and your passion! Thank you for sharing it! LM
By Lynne Marie on January 18, 2024 at 10:24 am
I love all of these suggestions, but particularly the interrupting ducks idea – I get this so often but don’t always follow it. Also the dedication writing, which I haven’t done within my creative process. Thank you for these great ideas!
By Helen M. Waters on January 18, 2024 at 10:26 am
What a perfect idea to write for someone you care about. Your books are beautiful.
By Cindy Montoya on January 18, 2024 at 10:26 am
Gorgeous books (and ideas)!
By paisleyks on January 18, 2024 at 10:28 am
What a great way to look at a problem when you are stuck! Thank you!
By meganewhitaker21 on January 18, 2024 at 10:33 am
tough days are tough, love these ideas on working through them and on them
By snor5bddfeabba4 on January 18, 2024 at 10:34 am
Thanks for the great ideas. I will remember to follow the interrupting ducks in the future.
By Loralee Petersen on January 18, 2024 at 10:34 am
Thank you, Caron! Your enthusiasm in finding ideas all around us is just the motivation we need for January. I recently began volunteering in an elementary school for two hours, two days a week. (I missed my teaching days and the energetic imaginations of kids.) The first day working in the classroom inspired two story ideas. When your book Ida Always first debuted, I spent days in our local library reading it again and again. BRAVO on stellar storytelling! The next time I’m stuck or uninspired, I’ll remember your sage advice: “Dedicate your daily writing or idea gathering session to someone you care about.” With gratitude for your post…
By marshaelyn on January 18, 2024 at 10:41 am
“Even in a drought there is always water somewhere…” Start where you are.” Great words of wisdom. Thank you. Your books are wonderful!
By Mona Pease on January 18, 2024 at 10:45 am
A morning with cute elephants is a good one! Thank you for sharing some of your tips on how to get out of the mud–or maybe just wallow in it a while because that could be fun too!
By Christine Van Zandt, MILKWEED FOR MONARCHS (Beaming Books, 2024) on January 18, 2024 at 10:46 am
I agree with all of the above, and the quotes (from two of my fav’s) really resonated with me. It’s almost like a pair of glasses for me (story ideas and story writing) once you start, you begin to see them everywhere. Wonderful post, today.
By mornagersho on January 18, 2024 at 10:46 am
I love the ideas of digging, observing, and spying. Also will dedicate each of my writing sessions for PBs to one of my grandkids who have given me many PB ideas.
By nancyakolb1 on January 18, 2024 at 10:50 am
Caron, Thank you for a great blog post! I still
pull from your Act-Like-A-Writer workshop to shape my stories. Ida Always is an all time favorite of mine. I can’t wait to read Mighty Muddy Us! Annette
By annette schottenfeld on January 18, 2024 at 10:53 am
Ahhh, Annette! Thank you for reading and it just is the coolest thing to hear you use things from the workshop. I had a blast and that means so much and I still get energy from how awesome you all were to play with. Hope to see you soon:)
By caron levis on February 1, 2024 at 5:35 pm
I absolutely love the illustrations in Mighty Muddy Us :o)
Thanks for all this great advice. I love the idea of choosing somebody really specific to write for.
By Catherine Friess on January 18, 2024 at 10:53 am
Wow! These are powerful prompts. Thank you!
By thehugbooks on January 18, 2024 at 10:55 am
Saving this post to revisit again and again — so much useful info here. Thank you!
By elisederstine on January 18, 2024 at 10:56 am
Thank you Caron- perfect post for me to begin my day with and give me some focus and reminders of ways of getting myself through the muck of sad family news. Your approaches to finding ideas, and the search for the water on dry days, are wonderful words to remember to add to the writing day-to life in general! Your idea of dedicating writing time to someone you care about is so spot on! Thanks and gratitude. ❤️
By gottawritenow on January 18, 2024 at 10:58 am
What great ideas!
By Bridgitte Rodguez on January 18, 2024 at 10:58 am
Thank you for your wonderful keys for unlocking story ideas 🙂
By mlyablonaolcom on January 18, 2024 at 10:59 am
I like playing with clay, so the title, Mighty Muddy Us, got my attention. It sounds like fun to me. I like the idea of doing something that brought us joy as a child. I think that it gets us into the proper mindset to write for children. Thank you for your tips.
By 1marth1 on January 18, 2024 at 11:00 am
I resonate with ‘Spying and Observing’. Actions, reactions, and emotions surround us on the daily. Thank you!
By geigerlin on January 18, 2024 at 11:01 am
Love the advice to start where you are and thinking about emotional shape. Thanks!
By Eija Sumner on January 18, 2024 at 11:01 am
Start where you are…words of wisdom to start the process
By Laura on January 18, 2024 at 11:06 am
What a beautifully written post that weaves from one idea to the next, so I couldn’t wait to see where you were going to take me next. I want to do THAT in my writing.
By Laurie Elmquist on January 18, 2024 at 11:08 am
Great ideas! I missed Might Muddy Us so I’m excited to get it!
By growingbookbybook on January 18, 2024 at 11:11 am
I love the practical advice and the permission to play in the mud. I did this once for myself and ended up with a really cute manuscript I am really excited about.
By lisakdaviswriting on January 18, 2024 at 11:13 am
The full-bodied suggestions here are inspiring. Getting up from the desk is often a useful way forward. Thank you Anne Young
>
By The World Is My Cuttlefish on January 18, 2024 at 11:18 am
Caron, thank you for reminding us to start where we are. I will revisit your post whenever I am stuck in the mud!
By catlady45 on January 18, 2024 at 11:20 am
“Uncollected inspiration never actually goes away,” really got me. Sometimes, too often, struggle to find inspiration. I so appreciate your suggestions for taking our time and proceeding as if. Many gems here. Thank you.
By littleseedsread on January 18, 2024 at 11:21 am
Love your post and great ideas. Can’t wait to read this book.
By bevbaird on January 18, 2024 at 11:24 am
Great ideas =)
By Angel Gantnier on January 18, 2024 at 11:24 am
Thanks for the advice, and Mighty Muddy Us looks adorable, congrats.
By Daryl Gottier on January 18, 2024 at 11:24 am
Thank you, Caron, for sharing these techniques!
By tinamcho on January 18, 2024 at 11:25 am
We love “Stop that Yawn!” And I love the idea of dedicating your writing time to someone else. That is so special.
By Allison Green on January 18, 2024 at 11:25 am
Thank you for the wonderful advice! I needed it desperately right now. I love the thought of ideas being ever present, and we just need to dig them up.
By Karin Larson on January 18, 2024 at 11:29 am
Oh Caron! These were such helpful techniques! Instead of feeling bad about lack of ideas, you have given us things to do to develop some! Your books are beautiful and I love the idea of dear Enid following the call of a loved one to find her way out of the dust storm!
By writeremmcbride on January 18, 2024 at 11:39 am
So many wonderful ideas, thank you!
By mariautumn7c81b37a0a on January 18, 2024 at 11:40 am
Such beautiful books! Thank you for the muddy tips ✨
By Naja Lund Aparico on January 18, 2024 at 11:43 am
First, I love your books! Very inspiring how you got your ideas for each of them. I love “start where you are not where you want to be”. Where I am is in the beginning of starting a daily writing habit. I want to be a published author but I’m not there yet. Thanks for the inspiration.
By Lori Williams Writing on January 18, 2024 at 11:47 am
Thanks for your unusual but effective ways to come up with story ideas!
By susanahearn45 on January 18, 2024 at 11:47 am
This just blew my mind! I never thought about the ideas presented today. Love you! I can’t wait to try them out. A few days ago I took some pictures of the sunset 🌅 and the ❄️snow. I think 🤔 there may be some ideas. I also was watching a baby deer 🦌 in the snow,❄️. This could be another idea. I am truly inspired by all the great ideas. I think 🤔 some of my writing ✍️ has changed because of it! Thank you! 🙏
By amybeth349 on January 18, 2024 at 11:51 am
Wow. Thank you for sharing. That means so much to know you got something useful to try. Have fun with those images.
By caron levis on February 1, 2024 at 5:39 pm
Love these ideas about collecting moments of emotion, unique sounds or images, and especially the dedication inspiration.
By dlapmandi on January 18, 2024 at 11:58 am
Thank you, Caron, for sharing your treasure trove of writing ideas and prompts. With our coming storm, it looks like I am going to play in mud.
By judyrubin13 on January 18, 2024 at 12:03 pm
Thanks for the great post Caron!
By Laurie Bouck on January 18, 2024 at 12:04 pm
Great advice and beautiful books. Thank you!
By Kirsten Pendreigh on January 18, 2024 at 12:11 pm
I got so many little ideas from this! I love the idea of watching kids for little nuggets to develop- when it comes from the kids, you know they will be interested in it!
By dashofjoyblog on January 18, 2024 at 12:14 pm
THANK YOU! I am currently in the mud. Wallowing, inhaling, unable to stand. Just on the bank is a daunting revision.
I may go watch a duck video.
By write4you2000 on January 18, 2024 at 12:16 pm
Sometimes the mud sure is thick. I hope the ducks will waddle you somewhere you get wiggle room.
By caron levis on February 1, 2024 at 5:40 pm
CARON: WOW! SO MANY GEMS OF INSPIRATION are PACKED into this post! “Start where you are, not where you want to be” TRULY HIT HOME for me, as did: “Sometimes you need to act playful before you can feel playful.” Both will DEFINITELY be going up next to my writing desk to CONTINUE to MOTIVATE me to JUST START writing, WHEREVER I am, in WHATEVER mood I’m in. THANK YOU for the IMPORTANT reminder to PLAY in the mud life brings us!
By Natalie Lynn Tanner on January 18, 2024 at 12:20 pm
I loved your creative prompts and your heartfelt advice is just the tonic I needed – thank you! Your books look wonderful and I’m really looking forward to reading them!
By sue macartney on January 18, 2024 at 12:21 pm
“Usually there’s nothing that makes me more present and joyful than collecting fresh drops of ideas.” This is me too Caron! Your post is packed with great ways to break through. Love the prizes you picked so generously for storystormers! Thank you so much for writing this post!
By marty on January 18, 2024 at 12:31 pm
Thank you for sharing this wonderful post. Those elephants are so lovely!
By Katie marie on January 18, 2024 at 12:32 pm
Fantastic suggestions! I can’t wait to get stuck in the mud. Thank you for giving these to us. 🙂
Angie Quantrell
By Angie on January 18, 2024 at 12:33 pm
Your fun creative prompts are appreciated. Thank you so much for sharing.
By Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator on January 18, 2024 at 12:34 pm
Thanks for these great tips, Caron! I find Charles Santoso’s art inspiring, too.
By Carrie Tillotson on January 18, 2024 at 12:35 pm
Congratulations on your success – beautiful books!!! …and thank you for the tips.
By Claudia Sloan on January 18, 2024 at 12:37 pm
All your ideas and suggestions for finding new ideas and inspiration can also be used to change different parts of a work-in-progress. Play in the Mud just helped me sort out the first lines of an older story that needed a new beginning. Thanks!!!!
By Marie Prins on January 18, 2024 at 12:39 pm
Thank you for this wonderful advice!
By leahmoserwrites on January 18, 2024 at 12:43 pm
Thank you for giving me permission to explore (if only for an hour) those tantalizing rabbit holes that I fall into while I’m working on a project!
By Adriana Bergstrom on January 18, 2024 at 12:46 pm
Great ideas!
By Charlotte Glaze on January 18, 2024 at 12:46 pm
I will use your advice. Give myself time to explore the rabbit hole! But also to keep the other ideas “on the side”. Congratulations on your new book!
By Nancy Ferguson on January 18, 2024 at 12:48 pm
Great prompts. Especially love ‘Be a spy for Hope.’ Thanks!
By Poupette on January 18, 2024 at 12:49 pm
Thank you for sharing so many inspiring prompts, thoughts, and quotes! I’m a huge fan of IDA, ALWAYS!
By Alison McGauley on January 18, 2024 at 12:51 pm
Caron, what a wonderful list of suggestions, thank you! Today, I am especially feeling the first one. I have been in a negative mood for two days, I think I might just jump into the mud and see where it takes me. : )
By Tracey Kiff-Judson on January 18, 2024 at 12:51 pm
Thank you for sharing all these different idea generating tips! I look forward to reading your books – I loved Ida, Always, and can’t wait to read the others.
By Viviane Elbee on January 18, 2024 at 12:54 pm
I love your tips for finding ideas at all emotional stages of one’s day and life as a writer-Great post!
By Jane Dippold on January 18, 2024 at 12:55 pm
Thank you so much! I have many exciting things stirring in my brain!
By marcihersel on January 18, 2024 at 12:56 pm
Mud is a great motivator! Thank you for your ideas to spark ideas.
By Alicia Shawn Gagnon on January 18, 2024 at 12:56 pm
Great ideas! I have a theater background (currently assistant directing Matilda, Jr. at a middle school) so this resonated with me.
By Susan Johnston Taylor on January 18, 2024 at 12:56 pm
Writing short things take me a long time too! This was a fabulous read, thank you for sharing. So much to look out for.
By natashaffdfd87f06 on January 18, 2024 at 12:57 pm
All her books sound lovely and soothing.
By Annie Guerra on January 18, 2024 at 1:01 pm
I had a miserable long dry spell that lasted months and I wish I had had these powerful ideas to help me at the time. I am downloading this for future reference. Big thanks!
By carmelamccainsimmons on January 18, 2024 at 1:04 pm
Use all your senses to inspire an idea
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By 91mikim19 on January 18, 2024 at 1:06 pm
Time to dig deep. Thanks for the prompts!
By greengirlblueplanet on January 18, 2024 at 1:07 pm
Great advice! Definitely filing these away to pull out when I’m feeling uninspired or need to take a fresh look at an idea. Thank you!
By emmelineforrestal on January 18, 2024 at 1:09 pm
I love the way that you shared plot points from your books as you shared your own struggles and your tips for pushing thru them.
By kathleenplucker on January 18, 2024 at 1:10 pm
Great suggestions! Thank you for sharing these!
By erozmus on January 18, 2024 at 1:10 pm
What an inspirational post! I will be reading this one on repeat.
By claireannette1 on January 18, 2024 at 1:11 pm
The covers of your picture books are absolutely stunning. Thanks for the inspiration too. Love the idea of dedicating today’s inspiration to someone special.
By Kimberly. Storyteller on January 18, 2024 at 1:17 pm
Thank you Caron, I read your post while watching the robins and other birds eat berries off my apple tree in the snow and upside down. It opened up new ideas I hadn’t thought about.
By sheriradovich0384 on January 18, 2024 at 1:24 pm
Caron, this is wonderful. I especially resonated with spending a day writing for someone I care about. That could really open things up, I think. Thank you so much for sharing!
By karammitchell on January 18, 2024 at 1:28 pm
Great tips and prompts, Caron! Thank you for sharing!
By heatherstigall on January 18, 2024 at 1:29 pm
Be a spy for hope! I’ve found my best story ideas that way. Yes!
By Becca McMurdie on January 18, 2024 at 1:30 pm
SO many great ideas here. I love Be a spy for hope – because it it who I am. I call myself an optimist but really, I am always on the lookout for the little things that are hopeful, that show life is good – trees against a deep blue sky, bubbling laughter of children and so much more!
By redreadsandwrites on January 18, 2024 at 1:36 pm
ida, always — one of my all time favorite cry books. Love, love, love the story and illustrations. I’ll be sure to check out your newest mighty mud.
By Lorraine on January 18, 2024 at 1:37 pm
What a wonderful list of prompts. Such wisdom!
By coachrochelle on January 18, 2024 at 1:37 pm
Thank you for sharing the helpful suggestions for finding new ideas, Caron! Your books are beautiful and I can’t wait to read MIGHTY MUDDY US.
By heidikyates on January 18, 2024 at 1:38 pm
My Mud Is Made Of…Mud… No, Mushroom Soup… No, CHOCOLATE!!… Now I can write!
By 8catpaws on January 18, 2024 at 1:40 pm
So fun:)
By caron levis on February 1, 2024 at 5:44 pm
Beautiful metaphors about writing and inspiration. I recently read This Way, Charlie—so lovely. Thank you.
By robinswingeditorial on January 18, 2024 at 1:47 pm
Beautiful post! Thank you for all these examples to get unstuck. And congrats on all of your lovely books!!
By Sara Weingartner on January 18, 2024 at 1:47 pm
Thank you, Caron, for this thoughtful post. I especially liked the dedication prompt, a state changer to admiration and gratitude and joy. I look forward to seeking out your gorgeous published books and those to come!
By Gretchen McLellan on January 18, 2024 at 1:49 pm
Thank you Caron! What an inspirational post! Looking for your books today!
By Writer on the run on January 18, 2024 at 1:51 pm
Thanks for helping to keep us from wallowing to much. I’m looking forward to reading MIGHTY MUDDY US!
By Darcee A Freier on January 18, 2024 at 1:54 pm
Sometimes I hide from inspiration, too…but it’s good to know I can start from where I am and create from that space! I love the book “Ida, Always”…it is beautiful.
By debjohnson21 on January 18, 2024 at 2:01 pm
This was so fun and inspiring — thank you, Caron! You offered such a nice variety of helpful (doable!) exercises. Also this quote really resonated with me: “Start where you are, not where you want to be”. I certainly become overwhelmed by focusing on the overarching goal rather than appreciating where I am now and working through how to make good progress toward that large goal. Thank you!
By JF Hall Writes on January 18, 2024 at 2:03 pm
All very helpful tips and encouragements, Caron! Thanks so much!
By paulajbecker on January 18, 2024 at 2:13 pm
I am going to go on a hope-hunt today! And I love the suggestion to write with someone specific in mind. Thank you for your post!
By Jessica Burbank on January 18, 2024 at 2:13 pm
I can’t wait to try these exercises. Thanks for the great ideas, Caron!
By Kim Nolan on January 18, 2024 at 2:14 pm
First off — You rock the hair style in your pic! More and more it seems, circumstances force us back into the darkness we try to climb out from. Work the moment. Work the sadness. Or, sometimes we need to give ourselves time for tears. As long as we remember to watch for the birth of the next dawn.
By macsheperd on January 18, 2024 at 2:17 pm
Thanks for the writing prompts. Now it’s time to dig!
By Cathy Stefanec Ogren on January 18, 2024 at 2:21 pm
Caron, thanks for your post. What great ways to search out those ideas and get messy. Just the feel of the mud in between your fingers (or toes) puts you on a different level of inspiration.
By Becki Kidd on January 18, 2024 at 2:21 pm
Thanks for the reminder to get out and observe and take note of what I see. Lots of great suggestions here, thank you.
By cindyrivka on January 18, 2024 at 2:23 pm
I love that a tiny observation of a child fighting sleep led to STOP THAT YAWN. That’s just the inspiration I need. Thank you, Caron!
By Claire A. B. Freeland on January 18, 2024 at 2:26 pm
Thank you for this thoughtful post, Caron. Your insightful suggestions, especially “Start where you are, not where you want to be” and “Dedicate your daily writing or idea-gathering session to someone you care about,” are so beautiful. I wrote those quotes down to keep with me. Thank you. I just ordered Mighty Muddy Us and can’t wait to read it.
By Annelouise on January 18, 2024 at 2:28 pm
Whew! What an over awesome post. I cling to every word.
By Tarja Helena Nevala on January 18, 2024 at 2:32 pm
I love these ideas! Especially exploring the mud I’m in.
By sallymcclure on January 18, 2024 at 2:32 pm
Thanks for sharing your inspiration, Caron. Your books are amazing!
By Srividhya Venkat on January 18, 2024 at 2:34 pm
Seeing, really seeing, not only with our eyes but with our hearts is what I hear you saying. Thanks for sharing your inspirational paths with us for us to use!
By syorkeviney on January 18, 2024 at 2:34 pm
Caron,Thank you for these incredibly helpful ideas! I have been stuck
By Barbara Coston on January 18, 2024 at 2:38 pm
I’m excited to see where these writing prompts take me. Would love to win one of the super-cute prints, too!
By Jenny Boyd on January 18, 2024 at 2:39 pm
Your “dig” prompts are great. Thank you!
By ldodson100 on January 18, 2024 at 2:42 pm
I loved your ideas, especially the dedication to any little ones we are writing for. My grand cherubs came to mind and an idea followed. Thanks for the inspiring post!
By katecarroll on January 18, 2024 at 2:43 pm
Thank you
By kkeppol on January 18, 2024 at 2:46 pm
Digging, digging, digging! Thanks Caron!
By Cathy Ballou Mealey on January 18, 2024 at 2:52 pm
You had me at the elephants!
By Elena Horne on January 18, 2024 at 2:56 pm
Tooo-Weeee indeed! Great post Caron. I LOVED the advice and the fun and creative way you wove it into and throught your books and experiences. Ducks, indeed. Thanks so much for great ideas to navigate the muddy, sticky, blahs! Can’t wait to see your next book!
By Maria Marshall on January 18, 2024 at 2:56 pm
As always, you are a generous gem Maria 🙏🏼
By caron levis on February 1, 2024 at 5:45 pm
I love Ida, Always! Thank you for the great tips on finding ideas.
By Linda KulpTrout on January 18, 2024 at 2:57 pm
What lovely suggestions, and thanks for the idea of allotting a little time to an idea that “inconveniently” arrived while I’m busy with other stuff!
By Ilona B on January 18, 2024 at 2:58 pm
Great post! Very inspiring, Caron! Thanks so much for sharing!!
By arndt4writing on January 18, 2024 at 2:58 pm
I love your quote–“during a drought ‘there is always water somewhere underground to sniff out and dig up.'” I’m getting out my shovel. Thanks, Caron!
By Kristi Mahoney on January 18, 2024 at 3:06 pm
OMG following the duckies lead you to Feathers Together? Love it! Thanks for the fun post, Caron!
By kamalani3 on January 18, 2024 at 3:08 pm
Love “Do not Hope, Observe.
By pescadita98 on January 18, 2024 at 3:19 pm
Thank you for this post and the prompts to reboot if feeling parched for ideas. Grateful!
By Mary Beth Rice on January 18, 2024 at 3:28 pm
Great post! Thanks for sharing your insights.
By kellybirdsong2019 on January 18, 2024 at 3:28 pm
What great advice, start where you are! Sometimes you have to play the part before you can become the part. ❤️
By Tara N Seahorn on January 18, 2024 at 3:32 pm
What an inspiring, motivating and overall fantastic post. Thank you for sharing what has worked for you with all of us.
By helenlysicatos on January 18, 2024 at 3:34 pm
Interrupting ducks – lol – and squirrels!
By Kindness Kangaroo on January 18, 2024 at 3:38 pm
Thank you! I love This Way Charlie! BTW
By elizabethwilcoxsaba on January 18, 2024 at 3:40 pm
Wow, this one really resonated today. I love the reminder to “start where you are, not where you want to be.” I definitely have the struggle of wanting to start with having the perfect sketch, the amazing draft. I know it doesn’t work that way, but emotionally it can be hard. This are really great tidbits, advice, and ideas to help combat that. Thank you!
By Melissa L Lettis on January 18, 2024 at 3:42 pm
I have loved all of the Storytorm posts this month, but this one really spoke to my heart in a way that made me feel 100% understood. I couldn’t agree more or have said it better…
“At times when mucky emotions overwhelm me, inspiration oddly feels exhausting, and I tend to stick my head in the sand…”
Hiding from inspiration is something I’m familiar with on those days when it’s just “too much.” Exhaustion creeps in and sometimes tries to smother the creativity until it’s nothing but a faint, dim light in the distance.
The advice of your teacher was so moving.
“Start where you are, not where you want to be.”
What a wise and helpful piece of encouragement this was.
I’ve written it down and plan to put it on my wall to remind me that wherever I am mentally and emotionally, it’s okay. Just start where I am.
Thank you, Caron, for sharing this with us today! It was so encouraging.
By chelseasworldofbooks on January 18, 2024 at 3:43 pm
Great activity ideas.
By Trine Grillo on January 18, 2024 at 3:44 pm
I loved your post, but I love even more the sentence “Writing short things takes a long time.”
By Christine Graham on January 18, 2024 at 3:49 pm
Thank you for the inspiring post. Love that title Mighty Muddy US! awesome.
By riverwoods21 on January 18, 2024 at 3:52 pm
Thank you for a great post! I really loved your idea to dedicate a brainstorming session to a particular person and see what pops up!
By M. Fuller-Morris on January 18, 2024 at 3:55 pm
Thank you for the post on unearthing new ideas, Caron! It was very inspiring! ~Lauren Simmons
By lnsimmons23 on January 18, 2024 at 3:55 pm
Thanks for the thoughtful tips!
By bgonsar on January 18, 2024 at 3:59 pm
Thank you, Caron, for sharing this rich wisdom! You have given me lots of food to think about. Wishing you all the best!
By Anne C. Bromley on January 18, 2024 at 4:10 pm
So playful and mud, I mean fun! Thank you for the suggestions!
By Christine Letizia on January 18, 2024 at 4:15 pm
Thank you Caron, wonderful tips, I particularly Love the ideas of starting where you are and looking for hope… ’cause isn’t hope what we, as PB writers, work hard to offer through our writing? Just an aside (at the risk of sounding gushy) “Ida, Always” is one of my favorite Picture Books.
By tinefg on January 18, 2024 at 4:22 pm
Gushy means the world to us, and is helpful for the mucky head dayze. Thank you:)
By caron levis on February 1, 2024 at 5:54 pm
The prints are so cute! Thanks so much for these tips and strategies, Caron!
By emilysunli on January 18, 2024 at 4:23 pm
Thank you Caron for your suggestions of how to write through tough or murky times. My depression gets in the way of writing and feeling creative so now I have more tools. My favorite line from your bio is “ Writing short things takes her a long time. “ Another good reminder to take the pressure off myself that I’m not working fast enough!
By signeddiane on January 18, 2024 at 4:34 pm
There should be like a thousand o’s in that “long” ha ha sob ha. 🙂
By caron levis on February 1, 2024 at 5:47 pm
I really love th enuggets of wisdom here like observing the love and hope around us and dedicating to a loved one what we write, these are great for idea generation, thank you!
By shadikafi on January 18, 2024 at 4:35 pm
Wow! It is like you looked right into my soul…and saw me where I am. Thank you for seeing me and giving me permission to be where I am. Thank you also for tangible places to look for inspiration. I truly appreciate it!
By Amy Martinez on January 18, 2024 at 4:37 pm
Your digging has uncovered amazing treasures, Caron. Thanks for the roadmap and for he inspiration.
By Joyce Frank on January 18, 2024 at 4:43 pm
“Do not hope, observe” — wonderful! Thanks!
By lecon on January 18, 2024 at 4:53 pm
Using acting tricks to inspire writing is a wonderful tip, Caron, and I really appreciate the idea of dedicating a writing session to someone (or something!) to get the ideas flowing again.
By Melanie Ellsworth on January 18, 2024 at 4:53 pm
I love the idea of dedicating your writing to someone else. I am a grandmother now and inspiration strikes when I think about writing for my grandchildren. I think raising children is exhausting, but being grandmother has its perks for writing ideas…observation without responsibility.
By margaretsmn on January 18, 2024 at 4:55 pm
The thought that occurred to me as I read the post was silly things are the most fun. Playing with toys and mud are a great thing.
By Michelle Dragalin on January 18, 2024 at 4:59 pm
Thank you for the great tips. Your book looks lovely!
By Tara Cerven on January 18, 2024 at 5:01 pm
I’m plucking “Start where you are” and “Dedicate your writing time” out of this blog and putting them right in my writing tool belt. Thank you kindly!
By abby mumford on January 18, 2024 at 5:07 pm
so much inspiration in this post! thank you!
By jennaejo on January 18, 2024 at 5:17 pm
Be a Spy for Hope – I LOVE that! Thank you for a very insightful and playful post, Caron!
By Laura Wippell on January 18, 2024 at 5:22 pm
Thanks Caron for your tips. This past year has been particularly mucky for me. Your light hearted practical advice gives me hope.
By lphunt on January 18, 2024 at 5:22 pm
Caron, Thank you so much for this. I have definitely been stuck lately and I just needed this!
By Mandie Speese on January 18, 2024 at 5:23 pm
Hello, Caron. Thank you for sharing your advice. Congratulations on your success.
By theliah1 on January 18, 2024 at 5:29 pm
Thank you, Caron. About to head out on a walk along the bay. I will be keeping an eye and ear open for sights and sounds that inspire while I think about someone to write for.
By Deep Frees Studios on January 18, 2024 at 5:37 pm
I just read IDA, ALWAYS. Oh my, I am slain! It’s a book I wish I had written. Such beauty, wisdom, and heart. Yes, I imagine writing this short thing took a long time. Thank you. And thank you for showing us your dusty times and your practical ways to lead us to water. I find hope in that.
By Laurie Seaford on January 18, 2024 at 5:39 pm
Very cute books 📚 🐘
By D. Kim on January 18, 2024 at 5:39 pm
Thanks for sharing, Caron!
By Jan Milusich on January 18, 2024 at 5:54 pm
Great ideas! Thanks for sharing.
By alamarre7571bc92b on January 18, 2024 at 5:56 pm
Thank you for this collection of great methods for finding inspiration, and for your wonderful books!
By Lisa Billa on January 18, 2024 at 5:57 pm
I love the advice of “follow the interrupting ducks.” In our writers’ group, we frequently encourage stuck authors to find a scene in their book which is calling to them and write that. Sometimes, just getting the juices flowing again makes it easier to go back and finish the scene they were stuck on before.
By Janette Johnson Melson on January 18, 2024 at 6:04 pm
Thanks for your help in finding ideas.
By shirley301 on January 18, 2024 at 6:10 pm
Caron, thanks for sharing your writing prompts for finding inspiration on days when our creative muses are mired in the mud.
By Angela De Groot on January 18, 2024 at 6:13 pm
Thank you, Caron, for sharing how you are inspired. I have a new picture book idea!
By authordebradaugherty on January 18, 2024 at 6:20 pm
Beautiful books and very inspirational. Thanks
By gattodesign on January 18, 2024 at 6:28 pm
When stuck in the mud – make mud pies !
By Stephen S. Martin on January 18, 2024 at 6:29 pm
“Physically do something simple that brought you joy as a child” — this should be fun. There’s something I’ve been wanting to do for a long, long time. I’m going to do it!
By Jill Purtee (P. J.) on January 18, 2024 at 6:42 pm
Like reading one of your books, this post made me feel cozy. I adored the quote, “Do Not Hope, Observe.” And very much appreciated this post. Thank you for creating beautiful books for our world.
By lauranclement on January 18, 2024 at 6:43 pm
Thank you for your inspiration Caron. I have made a note of rhe writing prompts and really like the idea of listening and gathering not just images, but sounds also
By tinagraham103 on January 18, 2024 at 6:50 pm
“Writing short things takes her a long time.” Isn’t that the truth for most of us? Ha, ha. Love it! Terrific post.
By tomirueswrites on January 18, 2024 at 6:50 pm
Great advice, Caron, thank you!
By Kaye Baillie on January 18, 2024 at 6:53 pm
Thanks for the many ideas you shared. I especially like to think of ducks. When I picture ducks waddling down my drive I can’t be anything but happy. For the not so happy times I will now stay with my feelings and see where they lead. So many great ideas. Thanks again!
By seahorsecoffeeelektra79018 on January 18, 2024 at 6:58 pm
Good ideas. Thanks for sharing.
By Aileen Stewart on January 18, 2024 at 6:58 pm
Mud and elephants make a winning combo!
By srkckass on January 18, 2024 at 7:07 pm
I love your work and it was a special treat to hear the inside story on your inspiration! I can’t wait to collect “images of hope”!
By jenniferjschmidte207d3cec9 on January 18, 2024 at 7:15 pm
Loads of inspiration here, Caron. Thank you! Much more success to you!
By Jane Heitman Healy on January 18, 2024 at 7:15 pm
Thank you, Caron. Great post about overcoming writers’ block. Particularly loved your last point. That’s a heavy hitter 🙂
By Aly Kenna on January 18, 2024 at 7:28 pm
Great writer’s push. Thank you.
By Linda Sakai on January 18, 2024 at 7:39 pm
Great path suggestions to explore. Thanks for the inspiration!
By Keeping the Me in Mommy on January 18, 2024 at 7:40 pm
STOP THAT YAWN! is such a fun title–it definitely makes me want to read your book.
By Janet Frenck Sheets on January 18, 2024 at 7:42 pm
I love “my mud is made of” and “my emotional shape” as writing prompts!
By Kelly A. on January 18, 2024 at 7:53 pm
Thanks for the inspiration, Caron! Your stories sound as lovely as I imagine they look. (I’ll have to check them out) I need to find a good place to Spy for Hope! 🙂
By michelerietz on January 18, 2024 at 7:57 pm
The line “When emotions overwhelm…inspiration feels exhausting” really spoke to me. It’s been a rough couple years emotionally and physically, and my lack of inspiration/writer’s block has been frustrating. I love the idea of “Start with where you are” and “Do not Hope, Observe”.
Some birds started squawking right as I read that, and it spurred a story idea that could go in both a children’s book, or stretched a different way, spark a meet cute for a cozy mystery/romance. THANK YOU
By Jenn on January 18, 2024 at 7:59 pm
You have offered great guidance today – my ideas are sure to emerge from the mud!
By Dannielle Viera on January 18, 2024 at 8:12 pm
Caron, I would love to be able to take classes under you. Your suggestions ones I hope to employ on a regular basis. I especially take to heart the mission of thinking of to whom you are dedicating your writing. This is not the first time I have heard to have a specific audience in mind, but I like the way you made it sound even more personal. Thank you!
By Colleen Owen Murphy on January 18, 2024 at 8:20 pm
Like several others, Play in the Mud gave me a different perspective on the meaning of “start where you are.” I’ve heard that advice for beginning one’s family history, but it is especially meaningful in the context you suggest. If you’re feeling depressed, start there, instead of forcing yourself to write with hopes or emotions you can’t feel. Pick the appropriate scene in your story that you truly identify with. Very helpful, thank you.
By Teddi Ahrens on January 19, 2024 at 9:53 am
Thanks Caron! I appreciate all the suggestions!
By marywarth on January 18, 2024 at 8:57 pm
Fun!! got some good starts or at least hopes rolling…Thanks!
By 58chilihed13 on January 18, 2024 at 8:58 pm
Thank you, Caron. Been having some mucky emotions, so I needed this.
By jenwritespbs on January 18, 2024 at 9:01 pm
Love this so much! Thank you!-Macy
By inquirylane on January 18, 2024 at 9:06 pm
Yes…we need to start whwere we are! Good tidbit to remember! Thanks for sharing!
By karenleewyoming on January 18, 2024 at 9:13 pm
I love “start where you are, not where you want to be.” I’m working on not “future-tripping” so much and appreciating where I am more.
By Ali V. (they/them) on January 18, 2024 at 9:27 pm
Thanks for the ideas, Caron.
By nrompella on January 18, 2024 at 9:28 pm
So many great tips! I love the idea of writing for an artist you admire. Never thought to do that! And I love the interrupting ducks idea! Thank you!
By Sharlin Craig on January 18, 2024 at 9:29 pm
Thank you, Caron, for sharing how you are inspired. I have a new muddy picture book idea!
By Karen on January 18, 2024 at 9:30 pm
Some very useful suggestions. Thanks
By schumerthc on January 18, 2024 at 9:37 pm
Thanks, Caron. “On dusty days, I think of someone I want to write for.”
I like that.
By Garnett Natasha on January 18, 2024 at 9:37 pm
Caron, thanks for sharing so many valuable strategies/inspirations! 💕📝
By seschipper on January 18, 2024 at 9:40 pm
I didn’t recognize your name, but I did for Ida, Always. I loved the book so much I reviewed it! Thank you for a good read, and the good ideas. I have one more for you . . . play! When I’m playing, like the kids I used to teach, I know I’m on a good path 🙂
By rindabeach on January 18, 2024 at 9:48 pm
Oh thank you for taking the time to give our book a review. That means a lot and is just so appreciated. And yes to letting the kids remind us. I still get help from kids o taught even 20 (gulp) years ago.
By caron levis on February 1, 2024 at 5:52 pm
Beautiful perspective and ideas! I especially love the idea of dedicating a writing session or idea gathering session to someone you care about. Thank you for this!
By amandashayne on January 18, 2024 at 10:05 pm
This post is packed with idea generating ideas! Thank you!
By Monica Acker on January 18, 2024 at 10:06 pm
Thank you for sharing that we don’t always need to look inside, but look outside of ourselves as well.
By Matthew Lasley on January 18, 2024 at 10:13 pm
Beautiful post! Love the ideas of spying for hope and dedicating your writing to someone ❤️
By brightwishbooks on January 18, 2024 at 10:23 pm
Every child loves mud and elephants. Thank you
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By Bill Werner on January 18, 2024 at 10:26 pm
Inspiring post! Oh I wish I lived back in NY again just to take your Act-Like-A-Writer course. Thanks for muddy tips.
By goodreadswithronna on January 18, 2024 at 10:28 pm
Thank you for your post!
By Sarah Hetu-Radny on January 18, 2024 at 10:30 pm
“Start where you are, not where you want to be.” That is terrific advice. This post is filled with terrific advice. Thanks so much for it.
By rosihollinbeck on January 18, 2024 at 10:33 pm
What a wonderful post filled with honesty and truth. I appreciate this post greatly, thank you!
By Christina Dankert on January 18, 2024 at 10:37 pm
Sniff out water, you will always find water.
that will stick with me.
Thank you,
Carmen Swick
By Carmen Swick-Author on January 18, 2024 at 10:37 pm
It does make sense to explore a feeling, sit with it for a time, before on to something else. Thank you.
By Cindy Boyll on January 18, 2024 at 10:48 pm
Thank you for the inspiration to find “fresh drops of ideas” and exercises that will stick with me.
By Gail Aherne on January 18, 2024 at 10:57 pm
“Do not hope, observe.” Great advice from one of my favorite authors, K. DiCamillo. Thank you for including this inspiration.
By Virginia Rinkel on January 18, 2024 at 10:58 pm
What great advice! “Start where you are” is exactly what I needed to hear today
By sblotevogel on January 18, 2024 at 11:37 pm
Congratulations on your books and thanks for sharing how they came about from ‘digging in the mud’.
By Artelle Lenthall on January 18, 2024 at 11:54 pm
Great tips! Thank you.
By Adriana Gutierrez on January 19, 2024 at 12:00 am
So interesting! Thank you for sharing your process. Now I think about ideas waddling by like ducks (or storks).
By Deborah Williams on January 19, 2024 at 12:41 am
What a wonderful idea to dedicate daily writing sessions to someone as a way to gather inspiration. I am going to read all of your books!
By Jane F. on January 19, 2024 at 12:48 am
Thanks Caron!
By kelliannedy on January 19, 2024 at 12:48 am
Thank you, Caron, for this inspiring post! So many wonderful suggestions, and I can’t wait to give them a try!
By Steena Hernandez on January 19, 2024 at 12:54 am
Thank you Caron for helping us to dig deep for ideas. I’m excited to do something I love and “be a spy for hope” to generate ideas.
By Angela Martinelli on January 19, 2024 at 1:08 am
Thank you so much for sharing great tips and inspirations! Your book title is very clever! Love it.
By studioyuming on January 19, 2024 at 1:26 am
I’ve often felt stuck and love these wonderful ideas to help get me unstuck 🙂 Thank you!
By kelpellico on January 19, 2024 at 1:35 am
So many great suggestions here! I love Dedication Inspiration. Thank you, Caron!
By sarapetersohn on January 19, 2024 at 1:49 am
IDA, ALWAYS is one of my ALL-time favorite books! Thank you for this great post.
By LaurenKerstein on January 19, 2024 at 1:58 am
The idea that “uncollected inspiration never actually goes away” just stopped me in my tracks! So did “Be a spy for hope” I’m planning to do some hopeful inspiration digging this weekend 🙂
By Stephanie D Jones on January 19, 2024 at 2:27 am
I took notes on your blog post and realized by the end that I had essentially copied down almost every word. Thank you so much for being so vulnerable and generous with your thoughts and feelings. I hope that all your advice maintains its stickiness for me. This is one I’ll come back to again and again. Thank you.
By Maria Johnson on January 19, 2024 at 2:38 am
Fantastic tips and post! Thank you so much for sharing!
By Janice Woods on January 19, 2024 at 2:38 am
Thank you for such wonderful inspiration. I love all your books and illustrations as well. Learning to open oneself up to opportunities that are all around us is an art that comes with time and more self-confidence in ourselves. Listening to wonderful writers like you and all who have talked here gives hopeful writers the hope and encouragement to dream big.
By percyandcat on January 19, 2024 at 3:32 am
I love your examples from Mighty Muddy Us! Thanks for sharing your ideas.
By lindakaychavezbooks on January 19, 2024 at 4:07 am
Thank you for the practical ideas. And now I’m going to read some of your books!
By flewk1 on January 19, 2024 at 6:11 am
Caron, thanks for giving me so much to think about. Feathers Together is one of my all-time favorites:)
By thecrowsmap on January 19, 2024 at 6:57 am
Caron, Thank you for those insights especially writing for those people you want to write to.
By readmybook2002 on January 19, 2024 at 7:54 am
Scary, I agree, but am so encouraged knowing that “uncollected inspiration never actually goes away.”
By lynjekowsky on January 19, 2024 at 8:38 am
Great tips, Caron! I especially appreciated the tip on giving yourself an hour or a day for a new idea. When my brain is in full creative mode, I can generate numerous ideas. I have a notebook full thanks to Tara and StoryStorm! But I can feel real stress not working on them, then overwhelm leads to complete paralysis. I’m going to try giving each idea a day and see what happens. Thank you for sharing!
By Darla Christie on January 19, 2024 at 8:59 am
What a beautiful post Caron. Thank you!
By Kimberly Marcus on January 19, 2024 at 9:01 am
Thank you for the “start from where you are” advice. We all definitely need that sometimes!
By triciacandy on January 19, 2024 at 9:06 am
WOW! So full of ideas. This post made me think about things, so many directions to go in. Thank you for sharing! Encouraging post.
By schellijo on January 19, 2024 at 9:08 am
Thanks for these wonderful ways of stirring up story ideas!
By kkgchoco on January 19, 2024 at 9:11 am
Caron, you’ve given us some fun, playful ways to get inspired. Thanks!
By mdk45 on January 19, 2024 at 9:18 am
Mighty Muddy Us is a book I can’t wait to read to my class.
Thanks!
By jcherney3 on January 19, 2024 at 9:26 am
Thank you! This is wonderful! I will dedicate my idea gathering to you today!
By Ruthie Nicklaus on January 19, 2024 at 9:33 am
Thank you for this beautiful post, Caron! I love the idea of just sitting and spying to help develop a new journey. Might explain why I asked for a trail camera for Christmas this year, so I could “spy” on things I don’t usually get to see. I can’t wait to read Mighty Muddy Us!
By kcollazo on January 19, 2024 at 9:42 am
Elephant babies are just the cutest!! Definitely adding MMU to my “to read” list based on the subject alone 🙂 And, I want to thank you because after reading your post, I finally came up with a StoryStorm24 idea…breakthrough! 🙂
By yangmommy on January 19, 2024 at 9:50 am
I loved the advice to act playful in order to get to playful—Thanks so much for all the gems in this post!
By Susan Wroble on January 19, 2024 at 9:57 am
This was a very inspirational post. I’ve had a long dry spell. I’m going to try some of the techniques to generate some new ideas. Thanks!
By debbiemoeller on January 19, 2024 at 10:35 am
I just re-read Ida Always the other day. What a delight to see this post! “Do not hope. Observe.” “Start where you are.” So much widsom here. Thank you.
By suejeanko on January 19, 2024 at 10:56 am
What an excellent post. I love the idea of dedicating writing time to someone we care about. Thank you, Caron!
By Sarah Meade on January 19, 2024 at 11:13 am
I love the “act first feel later” and “start where I am.” These are such great sources of encouragement and motivation!
By sarahsteinbacher24 on January 19, 2024 at 11:21 am
So many inspiring writing prompts for this dry periods! Thank you 😊
By Joy Wieder on January 19, 2024 at 11:22 am
I love your ithoughts for generating ideas. Thanks, Caron!
By joseyetta3dd08a42d6 on January 19, 2024 at 11:35 am
Fantastic ideas. My head is spinning… but with ideas. Thank you.
By swollis on January 19, 2024 at 11:38 am
Dear Caron,
Many times, we’ve heard the question, “how do I get unstuck?” Thank you for sharing your struggles/methods for getting unstuck through determination to get going, observation, and research. You stressed the significance of listening to our mentors and friends within the writing community. That said, I look forward to researching your books.
Thanks for sharing.
By cynthia2337 on January 19, 2024 at 11:39 am
Great post. Thanks for encouraging us to act like writers, dig in the mud, and all your other gems. I’m off to waddle like a duck.
By andreesantini on January 19, 2024 at 12:33 pm
I love elephants! Thanks for sharing how you dog for ideas.
By Bedwards on January 19, 2024 at 12:33 pm
Oh, Caron, what a great post! I love the idea of dedicating my writing day to a friend and reporting back to them. That is just beautiful. I also love that writing short things takes you a long time. Same.
By Lisa Riddiough on January 19, 2024 at 12:43 pm
This Way, Charlie is one of my favorites. I look forward to checking out Mighty Muddy Us!
By kellyclasenwriter on January 19, 2024 at 12:55 pm
I loved this part in your article, “On dusty days, I think of someone I want to write for.” Super relatable post, thank you so much for sharing. I feel this time of year what you shared can happen quite often, as many are still in resting mode.
By effiekoliopoulos on January 19, 2024 at 1:25 pm
Thank you Caron for your unique list of ways to move writing forward. Such thoughtful connections.
By Jane Baskwill on January 19, 2024 at 1:44 pm
First of all, I LOVE Ida, ALways! Secondly, I LOVE your idea about dedicating a daily writing or idea-gathering session to someone you care about. Brilliant!
By Michelle S Kennedy on January 19, 2024 at 1:57 pm
Oh, those pesky interrupting storks! That’s terrific advice because they are always flying in and out of my brain. 🙂
By jessicafgwrites on January 19, 2024 at 2:29 pm
I LOOOOOVE your books! And these ideas are truly helpful. Thank you!
By Laurel Ranveig Abell on January 19, 2024 at 2:38 pm
“On dusty days, I think of someone I want to write for.” Lovely.
By libbydemmon on January 19, 2024 at 2:46 pm
Thanks for the “dedicate your writing to someone you care about.”
By authorhelenholder on January 19, 2024 at 3:01 pm
Thank you for these wonderful tips!
By jenweingardt on January 19, 2024 at 3:03 pm
Oh, I like the idea of thinking of who I’m writing for. Some of my best stories are the ones where I know which of my children would have liked that story.
By TL Fales on January 19, 2024 at 3:14 pm
What a lovely idea. I definitely need help on days when the inspiration is hiding behind a bush. I will be trying all of these suggestions. Thank you.
By Fiona Bannatyne on January 19, 2024 at 3:22 pm
“Start where you are and not where you want to be” is the best advice for someone wanting to publish. I like all of the mud references also. I take my grandchildren out to play in mud after the rain.
By Lisa on January 19, 2024 at 3:25 pm
Great tips! I particularly like the idea of giving yourself a time limit to explore those pesky stork-ideas and see if they have legs (or wings, in this case).
By calliebdean on January 19, 2024 at 3:52 pm
Thank you for the inspiration, Caron! I love all of your books and can’t wait to read the new ones. My favorite is Ida Always-such great heart.
By vgraboski61gmailcom on January 19, 2024 at 4:16 pm
Thanks for the inspiration, Caron!
By Carol Gordon Ekster on January 19, 2024 at 4:20 pm
Fabulous ideas for finding inspiration –also great for finding happiness again in life! Thank you, Caron!
By beaumontsd2 on January 19, 2024 at 4:31 pm
Thanks so much for all of your wisdom! I love your books that I’ve read and have the others on hold at the library. Such special books.
Cheryl Johnson
By jumpbaby on January 19, 2024 at 4:56 pm
Act first, Feel later = Fake it til you make it!
By Melissa Killian Writing Portfolio on January 19, 2024 at 5:16 pm
Love the inspiration! Can’t wait to read your books! Thank you, Caron!
By mrbellasgmailcom on January 19, 2024 at 5:39 pm
Such great suggestions! Thank you. I just requested all your books from my library!
By Mary A Zychowicz on January 19, 2024 at 5:47 pm
I like your advice for dusty days – think of someone you care about and want to write for. The inspiration for my first book came from my mother and I was able to read it to her before she passed in 2015. I am looking forward to reading all of your books!
By kathleengauer on January 19, 2024 at 5:48 pm
I love the advice. What a great new way of looking for inspiration.
By Christina on January 19, 2024 at 6:24 pm
Super advice
Got lost… and found the way out by a friend calling out.
Thank you!
By Charles Trevino on January 19, 2024 at 7:42 pm
I agree, Inspiration can come from anywhere at any time.
By cathyrose54 on January 19, 2024 at 9:01 pm
What wonderful advice–thank you! Your books are so beautiful and heartfelt.
By Peggy Dobbs on January 19, 2024 at 9:48 pm
I really love your tips. I especially love the way they walk poisitvely through the emotions which may come up while writing.
Kris
By hamblinkris on January 19, 2024 at 9:53 pm
Love the interrupting ducks–or storks–and the chance to follow where they lead. Thank you for the inspiration!
By brintonculp on January 19, 2024 at 10:03 pm
Wow! What a great post – thank you!
By wyszguy on January 20, 2024 at 2:02 am
I like the idea of starting where we are, not where we want to be. It can be applied to many things I am trying to accomplish. Thank you for the tips.
By cassiazaven on January 20, 2024 at 4:23 am
Beautiful book!! Congratulations!
By migratingmoosegmailcom on January 20, 2024 at 6:31 am
Thank you for the suggestions! I love the idea of thinking about someone you care about as a source of inspiration and motivation.
By Andrea Mack on January 20, 2024 at 8:36 am
Thank you so much Caron! Even during a drought “there is always water somewhere underground to sniff out and dig up.” Wow – that is so powerful. Your words are so inspiring. Ida, Always is one of my absolute favorites. Congratulations on all of your beautiful books!
By laurakbower on January 20, 2024 at 9:37 am
Hi Caron, I read IDA ALWAYS as a mentor text for a story of mine and it is very touching, so I know what you mean let your feelings take you there. I stewed on some of your suggestions and got good ideas. Thank you for that. Congratulations on your books. Your workshop Act as a writer sounds really interesting.
By ralucasirbu on January 20, 2024 at 9:47 am
This feels like a gold mine to me, not only about finding ideas, but also mental health tips. Thanks, Caron.
By Jim Chaize on January 20, 2024 at 9:53 am
Your credentials speak volumes! Thank you for taking the time to write this helpful blog about idea formation. I took your suggestion, and wrote a story idea for my 2 year old granddaughter. It is delightful!
By Bernadette E. Wallace on January 20, 2024 at 9:59 am
Thanks for an inspiring post, Caron! I appreciate that you shared tips from your drama and writing worlds! I love your stories and look forward to reading your new books!
By Melissa Stoller on January 20, 2024 at 11:16 am
Thanks so much for this inspiring post, Caron! I love your ideas and your books are among my favorites! Looking forward to reading your new one!
By donnacangelosi on January 20, 2024 at 12:10 pm
So much to glean from your post! I love the idea of the “emotional shape is…” and I really appreciate the reminder that “writing short things takes a long time”!
By Christine Strena on January 20, 2024 at 12:19 pm
“Be a spy for hope” is brilliant! Love this post.
By swwriter1 on January 20, 2024 at 12:28 pm
Great little ideas to think of ideas. I love your muddy elephants, so cute!
By stephaniemstories on January 20, 2024 at 2:51 pm
I love the way you’ve broken the creative process down into smaller tasks. I also love playing with mud! Thanks!
By Deborah Ishii on January 20, 2024 at 3:50 pm
“Once I hid so long, it seemed like my ideas had given up waiting and dried up. Scary. But uncollected inspiration never actually goes away.” What an inspirational quote–and one I needed to hear today. Thank you!
By tracyschuldthelixon on January 20, 2024 at 4:09 pm
There are so many great quotes and pieces of advice here, Caron! One of my favorites is the prompt, “My mud is made of ___.” Thank you so much for sharing and for encouraing us all to dig on those days when we feel the drought. Congratulations on your beautiful books. ❤
By Abby Wooldridge on January 20, 2024 at 4:10 pm
Five wonderful ideas – thank you Caron. I particularly liked the Dedication Inspiration one. Writing FOR someone can help with focus in the story.
By kellie906ce70f01 on January 20, 2024 at 5:25 pm
I love the ideas of returning to an activity you loved in the past and dedicating a story ideas to someone in particular!
By michellehlosardo on January 20, 2024 at 5:40 pm
I love the idea of writing for a specific person. Thanks for the great ideas!
By Mary Ann Blair on January 20, 2024 at 5:45 pm
I love the idea of dedicating inspiration to someone. Thanks so much for all your wonderful suggestions.
By marty bellis on January 20, 2024 at 5:55 pm
Practical tips are so helpful–thank you! And congrats on your books!
By juliereich on January 20, 2024 at 6:08 pm
Lovely books and fun suggestions. Thank you
By chaunceyelephant on January 20, 2024 at 6:41 pm
There are so many kernels of wisdom in this post. I especially appreciate, “Start where you are,” and “Sometimes you need to act playful before you feel playful.” Your book, Ida, Always, is one of my all-time favorites. It’s so nice to see you here on Tara’s blog.
By Dawn Prochovnic on January 20, 2024 at 8:46 pm
Great advice! ❤️Emmie Sent from my iPad
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By Bill Werner on January 20, 2024 at 9:01 pm
Timeless advice! Thank you for such a great post filled with tips – looking forward to implementing these.
By Lindsay Moretti on January 20, 2024 at 10:35 pm
Your books are beautiful!
By stefsenn77yahoocom on January 20, 2024 at 10:40 pm
This definitely resonates. It’s easier to say I didn’t have time to sit and write then sitting down and nothing comes.
By brittanypomales on January 20, 2024 at 11:41 pm
I LOVED THIS POST. It really resonated when you said you found it hard to act happy when you felt sad, and I appreciated the advice about playing in the mud, and also getting active with something from childhood that brought us joy. I’m currently crafting a latch hook rug, after I realized I wanted to do one myself after giving one to my daughter. Friendship bracelets to follow.
By msaraiva004 on January 21, 2024 at 8:56 am
Your Muddy book sounds and looks great. I’ve thought of a couple ideas while reading this article.
By Bettie Boswell on January 21, 2024 at 9:51 am
I love the idea of Dedication Inspiration! It was a surprise to see what idea it generated for me. TY!
By Jessie D. Phillips on January 21, 2024 at 1:50 pm
I love these reminders. The one to simply sit and observe resonated today.
By KamillaM on January 21, 2024 at 1:58 pm
Thanks for the prompts. I have a necklace my daughter in law gave me that says, “Keep talking. I’m taking notes for my next book.” I love it.
By Janet Smart on January 21, 2024 at 2:38 pm
Sometimes the only way to get a really good understanding of a topic is to get really muddy!! Reminds me of the time I went crawling through a man-made cave. So fun! Thanks!
By Leah Marks on January 21, 2024 at 2:47 pm
What fun! I must buy some shrinky dinks or jump some rope to get me in the mindset!
By Dianna Geers on January 21, 2024 at 4:22 pm
Shrinks dinks! Yessss. I may need to too. Good idea:)
By caron levis on February 1, 2024 at 6:00 pm
I love the idea of dedicating your story or even just the days’ writing to someone. I can see how that would help keep your writing focused and maybe even keep it a bit more kid-centric.
By Jamie Bills on January 21, 2024 at 4:26 pm
Love this! IDA ALWAYS is one of my favorite PBs! Start where you are and act as if…sage advice.
By Robin M Keeler on January 21, 2024 at 4:36 pm
Ooh! I love the idea of thinking of a one-person audience first. So many ideas are bubbling up when I think of certain students of mine.
By Noelle McBride on January 21, 2024 at 4:53 pm
All such lovely ideas! Thanks for these fabulous tips and tricks. No need to be stuck any more!
–Juliann (Juli) Caveny
By julicaveny on January 21, 2024 at 6:09 pm
Your ideas take me in new creative directions! Thanks a million! Congratulations on your success!
By lzgodfrey on January 21, 2024 at 6:43 pm
Your books look adorable! Congrats! Thanks for sharing your tips for when we get stuck or are out of inspiration. Sometimes it’s hard to bounce back from such moments. I’ll keep your advice at hand. Thanks! ☺️
By marianariosr on January 21, 2024 at 7:11 pm
I love the idea of raindrop ideas! Just waiting to fall into the right bucket.
By robincurrie1 on January 21, 2024 at 7:42 pm
Thanks for your post Caron!
By Sylvia Mary Grech on January 21, 2024 at 8:43 pm
You had me at the first line. So many raindrops of inspiration in here, I had to read it slowly, twice. Thank you, Caron!
By Kristen Indahl on January 21, 2024 at 9:18 pm
UAUHH!!! I love storystorm. I love your style of writing. I love everything on your post. I was waiting this post long time, so for me is the time. Thank you Caron for sharing with us in an incredible way your philosophy of seeing the world.
By Gaby L. on January 21, 2024 at 9:20 pm
Thanks for the inspiration! The first dig really helped me out. I’ve been swamped emotionally recently and it’s nice to get it out a bit.
By Jennifer Lu on January 21, 2024 at 9:38 pm
This was such a beautiful post! So many helpful and inspiring ideas. Thank you!
By jilltatara on January 22, 2024 at 12:56 am
Love this post! Thanks so much for sharing.
By melissajmiles1 on January 22, 2024 at 12:15 pm
That piece of advice, “Start where you are, not where you want to be.” is very spot on and right! If a bit uncomfortable. I’m going to keep that in mind moving forward. Thank you for sucj a wonderful post!
By Melissa Escobar on January 22, 2024 at 12:30 pm
Great idea of thinking of a one-person audience first.
By Kyle McBride on January 22, 2024 at 3:30 pm
Love this idea of being active and watching, then following it to it’s end. I’ve often gotten inspiration in pictures I find on Pintrest!
By joanswanson58 on January 22, 2024 at 4:02 pm
Thank you, Caron. I can’t wait to read your books!
By cnparch on January 22, 2024 at 4:53 pm
Thanks for all the good ideas, I especially like the one where I get to do something I thought was fun from my childhood, which made me smile on the spot 🙂
By mattsthrockmorton on January 22, 2024 at 6:16 pm
Thanks for all the ideas to get unstuck. Need this often.
By Janet Halfmann on January 22, 2024 at 6:59 pm
Thanks for the tips!
By beckylevine on January 22, 2024 at 7:10 pm
Your books are lovely! Thank you for inspiring us with this post.
By Aimee Larke on January 22, 2024 at 8:33 pm
Great suggestions!
By Gayle Veitenheimer on January 22, 2024 at 9:17 pm
Excellent idea… When a new idea flies in at the “wrong” time, give yourself one hour, day, or week to explore it.
By staceygustafson on January 22, 2024 at 9:57 pm
This is so great, Caron! I love the principle of acting first, and the feelings will follow. Now, to put it into practice…
Thank you!
By robinmeby on January 22, 2024 at 10:36 pm
Thank you so much for these great ideas, Caron! I’m excited to test them out,
By Jolene Ballard Gutiérrez on January 22, 2024 at 11:51 pm
Caron!
Thank you for the inspiration. I especially like the idea for dedication inspiration.
Suzy Leopold
By Prairie Garden Girl on January 23, 2024 at 9:49 am
Thanks for all these great suggestions for getting out of a writing rut! Super helpful. ________________________________
By Christine Fleming McIsaac on January 23, 2024 at 9:56 am
Lots of great quotes here to get your mind in the right place to write what you need to write.
By Lauri Meyers on January 23, 2024 at 10:36 am
This is a very inspiring post for getting oneself out of a muddy place and into a creative place!
By Judy Sobanski on January 23, 2024 at 10:58 am
Thank you for addressing the honest problem we all encounter! I love the dedication advice.
By michelemeleen on January 23, 2024 at 2:26 pm
Those seasons of feeling stuck/uninspired are very real. Your exercises for moving through those times are welcomed 🙂 Thank you, Caron
By anakellyinla on January 23, 2024 at 3:39 pm
What a wonderful permission to wallow and explore before acting happy as path towards being happy. I felt this as a transition from acknowledging loss to embracing memories and hope for the future. I know just the object that might carry my story through these phases. Thank you for your post!
By mnlfam on January 23, 2024 at 3:49 pm
This feels like good advice for life as well as writing. Thank you
By Finding Damo on January 23, 2024 at 7:06 pm
Your first couple of sentence here where you describe collecting ideas as a thing that propels you and sustains you in life really resonated with me. Which is why it feels so “hopeless” when I’m in that exhausted stage–if I can’t care about ideas, it feels like I can’t care about anything. I love the idea of spying for hope (because the more you try to force it, the worse it gets, right?) Super helpful post. Thank you!
By allyenz on January 23, 2024 at 7:35 pm
So many notes taken! Thank you.
By TerriMichels on January 23, 2024 at 7:58 pm
Act first, feel later. I really needed to hear this today! Thank you
By stacyallen on January 23, 2024 at 9:30 pm
I love these suggestions and I love your books :-).
By sharongiltrowauthor on January 23, 2024 at 11:31 pm
The second “dig” in particular is bringing to mind lots of fun ideas. Thanks for the post!
By Barbara Farland on January 24, 2024 at 11:14 am
love these ideas!
By jenngautam on January 24, 2024 at 11:43 am
Yes, Digging in the mud is a great way to get ideas. Thank you for the inspiration.
By Marilyn DeVries on January 24, 2024 at 12:13 pm
Thanks Caron, for the inspiration!
By Suhasini Gupta on January 25, 2024 at 3:30 am
It’s time to get muddy! Thanks for sharing.
By Rick Starkey on January 25, 2024 at 6:55 am
Thank you for the ideas!!
By Anita on January 25, 2024 at 12:17 pm
Thank you Caron! I love the idea to dedicate efforts to someone we care about!
By Janet AlJunaidi on January 25, 2024 at 1:11 pm
‘On dusty days, I think of someone I want to write for’ – this is such a great tip – thank you!
By claireflewis on January 25, 2024 at 1:56 pm
Thank you. I adore elephants!
By Susan Contreras on January 25, 2024 at 2:15 pm
Thanks for the tips and inspiration!
By brilawyer on January 25, 2024 at 5:15 pm
Thanks so much for your post Caron. I built my grandkids a sandbox and had the best time playing in it before they started a new adventure. We all had a blast together. It definitely led to some new story ideas. Mud is great too… garden dirt or frog ponds.
By MDalphin Williams Creative.Com on January 25, 2024 at 8:17 pm
These are great nuggets to pull from when I’m feeling uninspired. Thank you for sharing!
-Jess H.
By Jess Hedaria on January 25, 2024 at 11:42 pm
Thank you for sharing!
By shereenicole on January 26, 2024 at 10:40 am
Your books are beautiful!
By annettepimentel on January 26, 2024 at 2:44 pm
Thank you, Caron, for these tips of wisdom!
By Heidi Chupp on January 26, 2024 at 4:51 pm
Thank you for all the inspiration. I love Dedication Inspiration best! Just look to the skies!
By kdgwrites on January 26, 2024 at 6:32 pm
Thanks for sharing your process and where to begin!
By streetlynn on January 26, 2024 at 7:12 pm
Clever prompts suggested. Especially Wallow! Yes please.
By topangamaria on January 26, 2024 at 7:44 pm
Lots of great suggestions. Thanks!
By bsenenman on January 27, 2024 at 11:20 am
Thanks for the wonderful quotes. I want to take some time to reflect on them.
By Earl @ The Chronicles Of A Children's Book Writer on January 27, 2024 at 12:08 pm
Thank you for sharing your wisdom 🙂
By daisymay on January 27, 2024 at 5:04 pm
Thank you for the wonderful tips and the background on the ideas for your stories, I love your Ida story and look forward to reading your others.
By Eileen Mayo on January 27, 2024 at 8:19 pm
Thank you for your post. I find writing way more emotional than I had originally thought it should be, so I resonate with playing in the mud, rolling the ball, spying hope, and following the interrupting ducks. The idea of dedicating writing time to others is one I’ve never thought of, but plan to implement. Thanks so much!
By Debbie Merlo Arnn on January 28, 2024 at 10:25 am
Caron, thank you for the post! I love the prompts, and feel like each deserves to be savored on its own. Can’t wait. Thanks!
By Cindy Greene on January 28, 2024 at 1:52 pm
Thank you for a great post. I love the ideas: be a spy for hope is priceless. And thank you for Ida, Always. That book is amazing. 🙂
By susaninez0905 on January 28, 2024 at 3:59 pm
Your suggestion of dedicating writing time to someone you care about gave me several ideas! Thank you!!
By Judy Bryan on January 28, 2024 at 7:20 pm
Useful tips! Thank you for sharing!!!
By cravevsworld on January 29, 2024 at 12:11 am
Begin at the beginning – start rolling that ball to start the transition.
Not related to reading, but to MUD. There is well known Canadian song called “Bud the Spud from the Bright Rd Mud.” You may enjoy it:)
By ransonpatti on January 29, 2024 at 1:44 pm
Great tips! Thank you.
By cathystenquist on January 29, 2024 at 5:46 pm
Lovely thoughts. Thank you.
By Patricia Tiffany Morris on January 30, 2024 at 4:04 am
I appreciate your “Dig” exercises. Thank you. This Way Charlie was on my state book award (PA) a few years ago, and I remember the students truly enjoying the friendship between Charlie and Jack.
By Nadine Poper on January 30, 2024 at 6:51 am
Very inspiring post with some great quotes! I love the part when you said write for someone you love! Your books are adorable and I wish you great success!
By kvavala on January 30, 2024 at 10:04 am
The words in this post are so lovely and inspiring. thank you.
By Johanna Peyton on January 30, 2024 at 12:01 pm
Great ideas! Thanks!
By colleenrkosinski on January 30, 2024 at 6:03 pm
Thank you for the tips!
By Myrna Foster on January 30, 2024 at 7:28 pm
Many points to ponder. Thank you.
By Judith Snyder on January 31, 2024 at 1:52 am
Thank you for your inspirational post!
By kathydoherty1 on January 31, 2024 at 12:34 pm
Wonderful advice! Thank you for this inspirational post!
By Kari Lavelle on January 31, 2024 at 1:29 pm
I love the story behind “Feathers Together”, what are the odds her video would spark the exact story you needed! Thanks for sharing, Caron!
By Andi Chitty on January 31, 2024 at 4:59 pm
Thank you for these great ideas!
By Alicia Meyers on January 31, 2024 at 7:06 pm
Congratulations on your books. Thank you for the book references.
By Marlena Leach on January 31, 2024 at 7:10 pm
Thanks Caron! Great post! I didn’t like mud as a child, but this kind of mud is right up my alley! I can’t wait to dig around in the mud.
By Lisa M. Horn on January 31, 2024 at 11:03 pm
Wonderful ideas, thanks!
By amandalittleauthor on January 31, 2024 at 11:07 pm
It seems like a common thread is just “start somewhere” or just “get moving” – great advice! Thanks, Caron!
By Adrea on January 31, 2024 at 11:24 pm
“Dedicate your daily writing or idea gathering session to someone you care about.” I never considered this before and I love it!
By Megan McNamara on February 1, 2024 at 12:46 am
Thank you for this post! I like the idea of writing for someone you care about.
By ashleydbankhead on February 1, 2024 at 2:11 am
There’s so many ideas here to draw inspiration from, but my favorite is being inspired by someone’s art and heart.
By Susan Cabael on February 1, 2024 at 2:26 am
Love this. Thank you for the visual too. There is something freeing about just getting messy with an idea…
By Nazanin Ford on February 1, 2024 at 3:37 am
Wonderful! Thank you, Caron! 🙂
By Sheri Dillard on February 1, 2024 at 10:01 am
Goodness, I am so surprised and so gratefully buoyed by all your reactions. (I wanted to reply individually to every one:) As may be obvious;) I began writing this from my mucky place. Thank you Tara for a deadline that forced me to remember and follow my own advice to start where I was. I was nervous about submitting this piece—who am I to offer tips when I’m struggling myself? Kept buzzing in my ear. So thank you all for Storystorming and giving me people to write to, which conjured my sense of play. Your responses mean the world and my next writing session is dedicated to you:)
(& I look forward to sending Charles’ art to the raffle winners:)
By caron levis on February 1, 2024 at 6:14 pm
Great tips to try, thank you!!
By sylviaichen on February 3, 2024 at 6:59 pm
Our thoughts, ideas, writing, and emotions can be messy. Thank you for sharing ways to embrace the mud to clean things up.
By Melissa Hastings on February 4, 2024 at 3:45 pm
Goodness! Finding ideas can get mucky. Thanks, Caron, for sharing such interesting ideas. I always knew those ducks could waddle into something that would stick.
By Judy Abelove Shemtob on February 4, 2024 at 4:41 pm
Thanks for the tips
By denitajohnson on February 6, 2024 at 10:29 pm