A Commitment to Creativity & Writing + Brand New Week inspiration + Hello Monday links!

May this week, new as a coin fresh from the mint, and full of promise, be about creativity and all those things that fulfill you as a person.

photo credit: victor1558

Creativity and nourishment can mean different things for different people. Maybe you like dressing up mindfully, or maybe you enjoy painting, making music, gardening, cooking or, maybe you spin gold in your life by chronicling the moments that matter through photography, writing, scrapbooking. Whatever you enjoy creating, with your hands and with you minds, I hope you get to do them this week. Even if it’s for a handful of minutes, a few hours because yes, reining in that time is often like riding a lion. But I do hope you do those creative things to nourish your soul. To reap happiness. To mine the gold beneath the layers of life and routines.

For me, writing is one of the most nourishing things that fill me up with happiness and hope. Joy in its purest form. So, when I think or talk about creativity, writing just has to be on my list of ‘make time for things I must do’. Whether I write for magazines, for myself or for my blog readers, just the act of putting words on paper is like relishing a cup of rich coffee.

What I’ve learned as a Writer is an inspiring post by Leo Babauta, the guy who writes Zen Habits. (If you’re a writer or an aspiring writer, this piece may spur you on further.)

If you’re a professional writer like me, or want to dip your toe into the world of writing, this post by Holly Reisem Hanna is packed with sound writing advice. Three successful writers spill the beans on earning more through your writing.

And, if you’re a mom writer, then hey, you gotta have your nose in ‘Writing Motherhood’ by Lisa Garrigues. A fantastic book with inspiration and ideas more precious than diamonds. Yes, really! I read this book a couple of months ago and just loved the way every page unfolds…with wisdom and empathy. While it’s a great read for new mothers who write, it’s equally interesting for mothers with kids between the ages of 0-50 years. The ‘invitations’ here let you explore your motherhood journey, one nugget at a time.

I leave you with a quote from one of my favorite ‘inspiration-go-to’ person, Karen Salmansohm, who creates these beautiful flash cards combining images and words. Works of art + inspiration that add sunshine to your life.

So, hey, fill your life with the things you enjoy doing. Or, take a small step towards making time for the things that matter to you, the things that nourish you. (Another good post about making time for things that matter.)

Good Morning Monday & Hello New Week!