My dictionary calls “three” a cardinal number. Since cardinals are my favorite bird, I am claiming three purposes for this blog: to write about writing, to keep myself honest, and to promote my work.
To Write About Writing. I write with the right side of my brain. That means, I think in images instead of words. Because I am a visual thinker, I don’t understand much of anything until I write about it.
To Keep Myself Honest. I am fascinated by artists. I’ve always wanted to be one, but I’ve never been as keen about finishing as I am about starting. To get to those two magic words, “the end,” I need a sturdy tree in which to hang the birdhouse in my soul. (Apologies are offered to They Might Be Giants.) This blog is a public place to set writing goals and follow through on them.
To Promote My Work. If you haven’t figured it out already, I’m an unpublished author. Today’s post marks the day that I begin the move from writing for fun to writing professionally.
On a personal note, I’m writing after a month of persistent grief. My father died on December 2, 2007. I’m slow to express heartache. Most people are able to get their tears out during a funeral. I gave a eulogy and made everyone laugh. Now, 500 miles away from my father’s grave, I fall apart. Specifically, I fell apart today leaving Barnes and Noble. Some of us have the misfortune of always knowing what it is we are supposed to do with our lives. I say misfortune because the task is enormous, and I’ve put it off for more than half a lifetime.
So. . . here I am world, Elizabeth Crisp, author. I’m closer to Fanny Flagg than Harper Lee, but It’s still my gift, damn it! It’s time for me to open it.
CRISPLY SPOKEN 
Go for it Liz! Nice to see you out there.
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Gorgeous site, Liz!!! Can’t wait to check back!
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Thanks friends! It’s fun to see people actually leaving comments. Mary, the picture on the header is one I actually took of the water lilies at the McNay. I remember that is a special place to you.
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Wow! You are my hero-I have about a thousand stories written on post its . . . here’s to getting to ‘The End’
Rock on!
TLT
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Liz!
I’m impressed with and astonished at your courage. I’m adding you to my morning-coffee ritual of checking in on my favorite blogs. So keep it up.
When my dad died three years ago, a wise friend told me to allow three years–three birthdays, three changings of seasons, three Christmastimes–before you’d begin to acknowledge the loss. I guess that’s about right, though it doesn’t explain why I’m choking up as I type this now.
Thanks for sharing your gift so we can all ooh and aah as you open it.
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Traci Lyn, touring as the waif in Les Mis, singing Abba in Las Vegas–you are my hero. Compared to you, I’m hiding behind a keyboard in my pajamas!
Liz, Thanks so much for your kindness. We never let go of those we love. Your words mean so much!
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Liz,
Thank you for including me in your announcement. You and I share a special bond that is beyond value to me. I lost my mother 19 painful and lonely years ago. I’d love to say it gets easier, and it will, just not anytime soon. It took me years to stop wearing black, crying at the drop of a hat, and waiting for the phone to ring. Embrace the memories, cry willingly, and look for pieces of your father in your girls… you will find them.
As for writing, DIVE IN! I cannot wait to read about your journey.
Much love,
Marcia
(now in Fayetteville, NC)
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Marcia,
Thanks for remembering me. My dad wouldn’t want me to fuss over this, but it is impossible not to. We are both lucky to have siblings to help us along.
We miss you guys. Hope you are liking your new home. Keep in touch!
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Liz,
Congratulations on taking this leap. I know that I will enjoy reading your work. While we waited for our referrals the vividness of your writing let us really get to know one another. I miss all the “conversations”. I’m so sorry to hear about your dad.
Take care and God bless.
Kristen
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Thanks Kristen! It is great to see you checked in. I appreciate the encouragement.
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Hi Liz,
Love the site and can’t wait to see your book published!!!!
I’ll be cheering for you and encouraging you all the way from Florida.
Pam E.
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