On Inspiration ...

Secrets of The Grace Writers

We were on a little trip on the Oregon coast years ago when I saw this sign. Stuff and Things is a thrift shop in my novel ... borrowed from this little boarded-up shop.

I find inspiration all around me, and when I know it’s gold, I snap a photo or jot it down. But I have to pay attention—constantly scanning my surroundings for a nugget of inspiration.

Here are a few gems from The Grace Writers:

• We visited a church several years ago. A woman kept turning around and adding to each announcement as it was delivered from the pulpit. She was a busybody in the nicest, funniest way. I wrote a scene where my character is accosted by that same charm—in the same way I was when we visited that church.

• Many of my dad’s qualities are shared by Guy Witherspoon. Kindness, woodworking, easy-going friendliness.

• Speaking of Guy … The reason he says “God bless you” to everyone was inspired years ago. I used to run early in the morning with my friend. We’d meet at 5 am to run the same loop three times a week. We always jogged by an older gentleman walking to the bus stop. He’d step to the side as we passed and say, “Good morning, ladies. God bless you!” We’d both say, “Thank you!” and when he was out of earshot, I’d say, “I love God bless you guy.” And that’s how my character became God Bless you Guy Witherspoon.

• An older, persnickety “church lady” from my youth is Josephine. I changed her name, of course. Everyone knows a Josephine.

• The setting for my novel is a combination of two small towns, Goldendale, Washington, and Glenville, Georgia. I loved living in those small towns.

• One of the stories Claire shares in The Grace Writers is a story from my life. Spoiler alert: My kids really did tell their friends that their mom is the tooth fairy. And their friends were very impressed. They weren’t wrong. ;)

• Photographs inspired many of the stories shared in The Grace Writers group. I’m a hoarder of vintage photos. They are an endless inspiration.

• YOU might be in my novel in some way. I’m a people watcher. Quirks and idiosyncrasies are so interesting and attractive. I love subtle mannerisms, outright insecurities, and bold personalities. People are a treasure trove of writing inspiration.

• God’s faithfulness inspired me. The ways He has worked out problems in the most unlikely ways. His ways are not fathomable, and that is wonderful fodder for stories.

Now you know a few secrets!

If you haven’t read The Grace Writers, it’s available on Amazon.

If you have, thank you! Please leave a review on Amazon and Goodreads. I’d be so grateful!