Endings, Pt. 4: Delivering on the Theme

Endings, Pt. 4: Delivering on the Theme

When people think about incorporating theme, it can conjure cringe-worthy images of characters preaching to each other about the author’s intentions and cornily weaving in a “moral” that leaves readers feeling condescended to. One of my favorite...
Endings, Pt. 3: The Final Battle

Endings, Pt. 3: The Final Battle

Welcome back to my series on endings! Today, I want to talk about the importance of what I’m calling the final battle, which is really where your protagonist and antagonist finally deal with the major conflict head-on. Your hero fights the dragon, summits the...
Endings That Linger, Pt. 1: Bookending

Endings That Linger, Pt. 1: Bookending

After drawing it out forever because I didn’t want it to end, I finally watched the series finale of The Next Generation this past fall. I was a little apprehensive because I didn’t really like a lot of the writing of Season 7 — many of the episodes...
25 Ways to Make the Most of Your Summer

25 Ways to Make the Most of Your Summer

Happy Summer Solstice (and full moon)! At least in my neck of the woods, summer’s been in the air for a while, but now it’s official! Here are a few ways to make sure you’re taking advantage of this fabulous season. Take a long walk without a pre-set...
Creation over Consumption: A Challenge

Creation over Consumption: A Challenge

Our lives are an ever-changing balance between creation and consumption. Mindful and intentional consumption is important and essential–consuming food, resources, and ideas, when done with intention, contributes meaningfully to our lives and helps us contribute...