Monday, February 26, 2007

Recess for the Mind

I've started writing a book. I have about eleven pages, eight of which I am decently pleased with. I got the idea of it one night as I was lying in bed. Most of my good ideas come to me at night.

But first, I can't mention my book without first mentioning my friend Molly. She's been writing her novel since the sixth grade. It's her Faust. I've been reading her manuscripts and rewrites and brainstomring and talking about it with her for a while now. She has inspired me to write my own novel.

I mentioned my novel to my sisters and found that two of them were also engaged in writing books. Theirs are of the memoire persuasion. Mine is strickly fiction. My sister Cheryl said that was good, as there might not be enough room in the world for another Schurig memoir. I had to laugh. I think she might be right.

I've also been reading books. My most recent read is called "Reviving Ophelia" and is absolutely fascinating. I do not recommend it for everyone, however, as it is a somewhat graphic psychological account of the lives of adolescent girls in the '90s. If any of you, dear readers, care to read it, I would love to discuss it with you.

For the book club at church we're reading "The Scarlet Pimpernell." It is easily one of my favourite books and movies, which is a pretty rare combo. It's fun to read it again, as I haven't read it in years. It will be interesting to see how my perceptions of the book have changed, if at all, this time around due to my extended life and new experiences.

I have also started an oil painting class. It's always something I have wanted to do, and now I have the perfect opportunity. Lori, a friend, is teaching a small class (me and one other) in her home. Lori is amazing. She just moved here from Italy where she had the great experience of learning from Master GiGi, one of the top ten premiere artists of Italy. I am awed. Truly awed.

My life is my playground.

5 comments:

Corinne said...

WOW are you having fun. I LOVE the Scarlet Pimpernell - the one with Jane Seymour and Ian Mckellen. It was my favorite movie in high school.

I also really enjoyed Reviving Ophelia. I read it a while ago but found it an interesting (and sad) book. My mom had recommended it to me years ago when my sister was suffering with depression and social anxiety. Makes me scared for Sheely to grow up!!

The Spiveys said...

You sound so busy! Good luck with all of your projects. Keep us updated on the novel and share some of your paintings!

Anonymous said...

I'm writing a book as well. A children's book (not picture book precisely, but older-children's-book-pre-adolescent. However, it is so much in the beginning stages that even to admit that I am writing the thing is hard. I had Mom read a poem I wrote for it and she was like, "Yeah, definitely a first draft." And it felt good (and also bad) to have it confirmed that it needs serious work. Maybe if I can get a second draft I'll send it to you. Maybe.

Anonymous said...

Hurray for inspiring friends! Honestly, the whole cheese fried peas story is something that keeps me going so...it's all cyclical.

Tiffany said...

Molls: Cyclical, it goes up and down, and around. Harness the good, block the bad. ;)

Corinne: I enjoyed reading the book as well, though indeed it is very sad. Thank goodness for the Church and all the great programmes like Young Womens and Activity Days. With a good supportive family and good people and friends cheering for and helping her, I think Sheely will do alright. I hope she always remains the same sweet and interested girl she is now.

Janakins: You must of course send me your book manuscript when you are ready. But remember, I sent you my crappier writings so you know I can handle anything. And who knows, I might have some good input. Stranger things have happened.

Lindsay and Kris: I will definitely keep you guys posted. I'm planning on taking pictures of my first oil painting during the different stages of it. I'll have that post ready soon.