Writing Inspiration

As a writer, new ideas seem to explode on my paper and when I am finished, I read it and think, "Wow!"

At other times, even the opening sentence is invisible; in mind and on my paper! So, what can a writer do when writer's block happens? Here's what I do for inspiration!

I surround myself with inspiring pictures and photos. Sometimes, the artwork is absolutely ugly or makes no sense what so ever to my friends and family. But to me, imagination jumps in leaps and bounds! Buy things YOU love and put them all around the place you write. Hang it on the walls and place it on your desk. And don't limit yourself to pictures only! Be creative. Maybe you found an antique lamp that you simply love. Put it on your desk! What about that basket collection, or feathers, or old make up bottles you collect? Hang them from the ceiling or put them on a shelf close by. You will feel inspired just by looking at them and being around them.

Now, pick up your pen, and start writing!

Read To Your Children

Do you read to your children? No matter what their age,children love to hear stories! Even babies will sit on your lap while you read. How do you keep babies and toddlers interested in books? Here are my favorite tips and ideas for fostering and nurturing your child's love for the written word.

Make hand motions to go along with shorter stories. Toddlers love clapping, stomping, and snapping. Not only will they have fun reading, they will find it easier to remember the words.

Use flashcards and flannel graph figures. Or make construction and contact paper cut outs. You can type words or draw pictures on them and tell the stories with the illustrations.

Tell the stories with puppets! Make your own simple sock puppets, or buy some adorable ones on line. Your toddlers will love this!

Let the kids draw and color pictures of their favorite scene from the book. They can compile their own book of pictures and "read" the story back to dad and grandma and grandpa.

Make up a silly tune and sing nursery rhymes to them. All babies love songs and what could be better than mommy singing!

Act out the book. Be the dragon! Be the scarred, quiet mouse. Be the big roaring lion. This really grabs a toddlers attention. They may never let you stop the story when you do this! You'll be hearing, "Again!" over and over!

These are only a few ideas that pull a child into a story in a way they will always love reading! Use your imagination and the possibilities are endless!!

Hair Design and Fashion

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Looking good and feeling your best has never been as easy as it is today. With all the web sites, magazines, and TV shows available, not to mention a salon on every corner, you perfect style, hair cut, and make-up choice is as easy as 1, 2, and 3!

With so much emphasis placed on clothing and accessories, hair fashions sometimes get left scattered on the floor of the beauty salon. Your hair is one of the first things noticed about you, so why not keep up to date and trendy with your hairstyle while you are updating this years fashion trends? Here is a list of my favorite 4 top hairstyles making a comeback this year.

The 1940’s long, wavy curls are back and just as romantic as ever! Not to curly, but firm waves look the most attractive. Be sure and keep your part off to the side, keep length below the shoulders, and keep your make up style classic for the best vintage appeal. This trend will follow you all through summer, fall and winter this year.

If you lived during the 70’s you may or may not appreciate the fashion come back of that era. But truthfully, the hairstyle from that time should appeal to many ladies who enjoy a casual, laid back hairstyle. This one works well with longer hair, parts down the middle, and someone who glories in thick, full tresses. This trend will run its course by the end of summer.

This spring brought us the slicked back hairstyle, which works really well for shorter styled hair. Use plenty of gel, style with your fingers, and slick it straight back, with no part. If you must have a part, please part is as far on the side as possible and only wear your hair this way if your hair is super short. This style is best for the younger age group. Only attempt this hairstyle if you are brave, adventurous, and edgy!

 

An elegant chignon never goes out of style! For a nice day look, pin up a few rough pieces of hair and avoid the hair sprayed glue look. Textured, messy looks are in. You can add natural color beads for an elaborate, sophisticated appearance and go from your day look to the evening fashion in a matter of minutes.