Sweet inspiration
Yes, it’s about food and writing again.
Not only is this weekend the anniversary of my first “real” published story…it’s also the cookie-baking weekend that I mention in that article. And while I’m sitting here on my couch, deciding whether to nuke or order dinner, I clicked on Food Network and saw a show on holiday cookies.
And I remembered more about writing that article.
The editor threw me a bone. He said, sure, I could write something for the paper — he was looking for a story on holiday food. What kind of story? He didn’t know. Did he have an idea? No he did not. I was nonplussed. I was determined, but I was bereft of inspiration. And then, one evening a day or two later, I was walking through the family room and the TV was on. Food Network was on. And a show — this show — about holiday cookies was starting. As I continued through the room I said, “Yep, everybody likes cookies.” Then I stopped and I said, “EVERYBODY LIKES COOKIES” and I sat down and wrote that very first piece for the Chicago Tribune. That same night I also wrote another story about holiday food and the editor used them both.
I guess it’s true that inspiration comes in all shapes and forms and you just never know.
Keep your ears and eyes and your mind wide open — and when a bit of inspiration comes your way — TAKE A BIG BITE!
Can you remember a place or a time where you were surprise to be inspired? I’d say that my example above is probably my favorite…maybe because it really started the ball rolling with my published writing, and hell, maybe it is just because it was all about cookies!
From cookies to big fat juicy bakery. How sweet is that?
I’ve decided now that every time I read your blog I’m going to embark on a journey of sugar gorging.
You are so right about inspiration. Often if comes from out of the blue just when you need it. I like that you are sharing your traditions with those of us who read your blog, especially at this time of year. Hugs. 
It seems inspiration sometimes happens when you least expect it, out and about in daily life. I always have a pen and small journal handy, to jot down ideas if I’m away from my writing. Visuals do it for me, too. I often take pictures with the intent of somehow posting them on my blog, and browsing those photos, they usually inspire me to put my slant on them somehow or other. P.S. Just a side note, I couldn’t access your last post about the Christmas poem? The post would never load, so I never got to see the poem!
That is so cool, Amy! What a great start to your journey.
PS: I love food.
Check over at my bloggy tomorrow. You’ve been nominated for an award.
Very cool Amy. My current wip was inspired by a real news article I read in September and my first short story (that I want to try to submit) was inspired by the big-@ss cruise ship in the bay here.
Congrats on your anniversary and thanks for reminding me that writing inspiration can come in many forms, usually when you least expect it. I’m hoping to do more freelance work in 2009, so this was very timely. (I may need to have a few “inspiring” holiday cookies beforehand to get myself psyched up!)
Cookies! My favorite! Homemade, chocolate-chip cookies hot out of the oven are my definition of Nirvana. (And, by “homemade” I mean the kind in the freezer that you thaw, cut up, place on a cookie tray and heat in the oven.)
Congrats on your anniversary, and I hope you have many more literary anniversaries to celebrate. (First published novel, first appearance on Oprah, etc.)
Total unrelated but where did you find hanukkah cookie cutters?
Hi, yes, I suppose cookies might be the ultimate comfort food. I love the header on your site, by the way. I heard about you from Carolyn S., Wade’s mom. If you’ve still got books, I’m interested. Thanks and happy holidays!!
Your blog is making me hungry. Congrats on the anniversary!
Yes, where do you find Hanukkah cookie cutters? I would love to make some with my kid.
My blogs are often come from something I will say in conversation or someone else says. It could be one line and I’m off to the races.
I just love reading your blog.
I’ve always thought there’s a correlation between cooking and writing — both are such creative acts. A lot of writers I know are very fine cooks. Along these lines, have you ever read Laurie Colwin’s books? Home Cooking and More Home Cooking contain some of the best food essays ever written. You’ll enjoy them.
P.S. I found your posts on writing through SVM Moms … I blog for 50-something Moms.