Writing Up My Apocalyptic Childhood: A Memoir Writing Update from My Sabbatical on Bowen Island

Finding your flow seems a little easier here!

I'm on Bowen Island, wrapping up a month-long writing sabbatical, writing up my apocalyptic childhood memoir. Through the gift of these four weeks away, I've been able to dive deep into writing flow, adding to my childhood story and refining further what I have already written. I've been tapping away on this story over the past year, mostly in the wee hours of the morning, so having this dedicated time has been so special and helpful.

It felt like an invitation to ascend.

Now that I'm nearing completion, I really think you'll find this story engaging, especially for those of you who (like me) grew up thinking the world was going to end soon. I also think it will provide an encouraging window into an ongoing challenge we face today, when the next apocalyptic meltdown is always being forwarded for our anxious consideration. Perhaps by reading my story, you'll be able to face those uncertainties with a bit more confidence. I hope so, anyway.

Now that I'm closing in on a pretty good draft, I'll be turning my attention to all the back end stuff (editing, formatting, cover, etc) as well as all the forward facing pieces (book launch, launch team, promotion, etc). These are not areas I'm very familiar with and I find them intimidating, so I'll be working to figure that out as well as relying on good friends to pull me through it. And I'll be reaching out to my friends and readers to help me with parts of the launch process, so stay tuned if you want to help me with get this book out there (there might be perk or two for those who do!).

Jovi and I, with Keats Island and Gibsons in the background.

Of course, I haven't only been writing. I've been able to get out on the trails and explore the island with Jovi and Tennille. We've been able to simply enjoy the days as they come. We've both relished this time of rest and break from regular responsibilities. Again, this sabbatical is such a gift--from my church and community, and from our dear friend Laurel who made her space available to us here on Bowen.

I look forward to getting this book into your hands!