Writing Down the Bones Deck

This is my wish for you: that you take these cards, grab the topic on one side and write, write, write. Then flip to the other side of the card and take note.

I've always used the word topic instead of prompt. Prompt is the starting place but topic indicates more the idea of plunging in and immersing. Natalie Goldberg

Well, I will give this a try. As a prompt or as a topic with the idea of taking a plunge and immersing myself in the writing. Hope it works and that it makes for an interesting read!

Begin with "I'm thinking of" and every time you get stuck simply come back again to "I'm thinking of" and keep going. Natalie Goldberg

I'm thinking of how I applied and received an award to write a book in 18 months. I am thinking of all the work involved. It does not just involve me but the 10 - 12 Native American elder women I choose to have conversations with.

Then to top that off, I am hopeful that they have an art to share. The grant is an art grant. And I said everyday women elders. And I said, an art display of photos of the women and their art where possible. I guess we shall see.

It almost feels like a full time job. My goal is to finish by this time next year. I told a friend. We are all getting so old, how do we know we will all be around for 18 months. No guarantees right?

Then what about how I said I would create a website for branding? I saw that as a part of a sample budget for the costs of writing a book. Then talking to my son, who offered to help me set one up several years ago is still willing.

His comments were, "It is the easiest it has ever been right now Mom." He suggested I check out some book websites to get some ideas of what I would like to see on mine." He mentioned looking at Fiverr, as he said there are people there that work reasonably for a good product.

All good ideas and good help when the time comes. I was thinking much later and he was suggesting soon. More work.

I am on track for my timeline and still I haven't finished writing my forward. I have spoken with 4 possible conversations out of 10-12, and I have committments from all 4, with two scheduled.

I am not doing too bad as I think about it as I have reached out to two venues and have spoken with each of the people who can make this happen since getting the grant. One said they are filling spots on their calendar or 2025 now.

Another said that she ran the store, it would be others that make that decision. So I followed up with an email.

Then there is to self-publish or find a publisher. I know a couple or rather, I know one and met a few others.

Don't ask me what I am thinking of unless you want to hear! Too much for so early in the day. Now I am off to a meeting and an oncologist appointment. Well, atleast this took me away from worry about that.

This is a classic, one I've used at least a thousand and ten times.

It seems to flush out the mind, cleans the corners. Not complicated.

It's an entry point. Natalie Goldberg