This week I interviewed Dr. David Bercuson, professor of history at the University of Calgary. Wow. What a ton of knowledge he has, and he was able to quickly grasp the intent of my questions and narrow his vast understandings to a comprehensive background and clear answers. AND he gave me some perfect resources to follow up, and invited me to come back for a longer interview. Wow. Just, wow.
Research at the Rodeo
Today I went to a rodeo to get a sense of western culture in support of my next novel, and I managed to get into a conversation with a couple of contestants about what it was like “in the old days.” One told me about a fellow who was born and raised (3rd generation) on a ranch nearby who might have stories to tell me. She was willing to take my card and pass my request on to him. Yay! Not sure if the rancher will be interested in following up, but if so, this could be a wonderful source of primary research!
Productive Writers’ Retreat
Very productive writers’ retreat: in 5 days I outlined 2 novels, to varying levels of detail, and got 2/3 of the way through editing a third. Also, during our writerly discussions, I waylaid the others for a critique of my magic system, and they found lots of holes in it—but provided suggestions for improvement as well. This helps tremendously!
Another Productive Motorcycle Trip
This was the second of two longer motorcycle trips planned for this summer, and again, by planning ahead with scenes I wanted to dictate laid out in some detail, I managed 2000+ words per day. They are all transcribed now, as well!
Invited to Writers’ Retreat!
Yay!! Mike invited me to Whitefish along with 3 other writers for the long weekend in September. Looks like 6 days of intensive writing, and very inexpensive: gas, groceries, meals. I have SOOO many projects that can use a good chunk of time. Excited to dive in!