Yearning--Thanks to Robert Olen Butler

Write the first few paragraphs of a story following this recipe:

Your character (in fiction or non-fiction) yearns for something. Show (don’t tell) what it is.

Declaring Your Independence

Write about a time when you declared your independence: how did it feel? what was the result? What would you like to declare your independence from today?

Learning to Read

When did you learn to read? Who taught you? What was the first book you read by yourself? What books or comics did you enjoy as a child? Was reading a chore or a delight or somewhere in between?

High Tide

Write about a time when you were inundated--with work, problems, bills, kids, opportunities, lovers, good or bad choices--and persevered and triumphed or learned a good lesson.

Happy?

“Happiness is not only a mood, it is a decision.”

—Julia Cameron

List 10 things that make you happy. Choose one and write a scene that shows why without using the word "happy."

Example: If horseback riding makes you happy, take us with you for a memorable ride.

Soundtrack of Your Life

Write about a song or songs that meant a lot to you: songs sung with the family; or that someone sang to you; songs that you danced to with an early love; or songs that summed up your feelings on a memorable occasion.

FOR FUTURE REFERENCE:

Find Song Lists by year at http://www.popculturemadness.com/Music/

[In the left hand column is a list of years: click on the year you want and get a list of the 25 top hits/artists!]

SAMPLE:

1948: Top 5 hits! I'm Looking Over a Four Leaf Clover - Art Mooney

2. Bumble Boogie - Freddy Martin 3. Buttons and Bows - Dinah Shore

4. Good Rockin' Tonight - Wynonie Harris 5. I've Got My Love To Keep Me Warm - Les Brown

"Share? No way!"

Write about a time you, or a fictional character, refused to share information or a tangible object. What did you or the character risk by refusing?