Inspiration from Chrissy
I get so much note-writing inspiration from my friend Christine Richards (Waystation Whistle), her Whistlestop Blog, and her Sunday newsletter. Recently she shared this simple encouragement:
There's no doubt opening a long letter is a special sort of luxury, but your letters don't need to read like a novel. A short note can be just as much of a treat, and it's a good way to ease into writing…Write to share a story, to say something nice, or start or finish a conversation. And remember, the more you write, the easier it will get, and your writing will improve.
Week Three: Action ideas for each goal
Pick and choose the ones that call to you. There’s no finish line…just the goal of steady improvement.
If you need to refer back to our earlier posts, here you go:
Goal #1: Write a letter a day for five days every week
Week Three:
Day 1, Nature Inspired: Take a walk in nature and then write a letter inspired by your observations or feelings.
Day 2, Unsent Letter: Write a letter to someone you've lost touch with or even to someone who has passed away. This can be a meaningful reflection and processing of grief.
Day 3, Artistic Touch: Include a small drawing, doodle, or watercolor painting with your note for a personal touch to someone you want to get to know better. I can barely manage stick figures, so I often add stickers or images I’ve cut out of magazines.
Day 4, Historical Figure: Write a letter to a historical figure you admire. If they’re still living, try to find an address to send your letter. If not, write as if you could correspond with them for the practice of letting your thoughts flow and expressing appreciation and admiration.
Day 5, Favorite Place: Describe your favorite place in the world to someone, detailing what makes it special to you. Ask them about their favorite place.
If you need more content ideas for your letters, The April Calendar for Note and Letter Writers might help.
Goal #2: Find a writing space or give your existing space a make-over
Week Three: Enhancing Creativity and Comfort
Days 1-3: Lighting and decor
Ensure your space has plenty of light. Consider a desk lamp with adjustable brightness for different times of the day. I recently found a lamp from the bedside table in my guest room that worked much better on my writing desk.
Decorate your space with colors and textures that make it inviting and stimulating for creativity. I’ve mixed textures on my desk by using a variety of containers to hold pens, pencils, and cards. One is ceramic, one is wicker, and one is wood.
Days 4-7: Technology and tools
Decide if you'll use technology in your space (like a laptop or tablet for research) and set it up in a way that it doesn't distract from writing. I like having my large iPad nearby for looking up addresses or using WordHippo.com to find an elusive word.
Stock up on writing supplies: high-quality paper, pens, envelopes, and stamps for letter writing. It’s handy to have design and style choices of stationery for various situations or occasions.
Goal #3: Get more creative with your correspondence
Week Three: Incorporating Visuals and Textures
Days 1-3: Incorporating art: Learn simple sketches, watercolor techniques, or calligraphy to incorporate into your notes. You don’t have to be an artist; just adding color or simple doodles can transform your letters. Go to YouTube.com and put this in the search box: “doodle ideas for beginners.”
Day 4-5: Experiment with textures: Explore using different paper materials. Think about how the physical feel of the letter can impact the reading experience. Some papers or materials might require a different kind of pen. I was excited to discover Artugn chrome markers in silver and gold ink that are great for writing on dark-colored paper and envelopes and making them look elegant.
Day 6-7: Additions and inserts: Consider what small items you can include in your letters. Add an element of surprise and delight with a pressed flower, a tea bag, a fragrance strip, or a photo.
Share your process on social media or with friends. It can be motivating to share your journey and get support.
Goal #4: Write more to those in need of love and encouragement
Week Three: Deepening Connections
Refer to the list of potential recipients you started in Week One.
Focus this week on personalization. Start tailoring each message more deeply to the recipient's situation, interests, or needs. Ask them about their life, their experience, most cherished memory, best advice they ever got.
For a loved one or friend you’ve known a long time, include specific references that show you really know the person (e.g., mention a shared memory). I keep a file for each person I correspond with regularly so I can refer back to their last letters and comment on any questions they had or stories they told.
If appropriate, include a small memento: a photo, a drawing, a charm, or anything that adds a personal touch. If I have a flower blooming or a colorful leaf that has fallen, I sometimes press them and tuck them into a letter.
Tips
Reflect on the feedback or responses you've received and adjust your approach if necessary.
Consider setting themes for your letters this week (e.g., hope, memories, dreams for the future).
Please leave comments about your experience this month!
Could you please do me a favor?
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So many good ideas here Elizabeth! Especially the reminder to have fun. Getting mail is always a treat, but sending it has its own rewards … like imagining how the person you write to will light up when they see that envelope you sent … because a good mail day is always a good day!