There is a lot of information about aging brains. None of it helps me very much and I don’t need reminding. But what I find helpful, and stimulating, is having easy tools at hand when working on a memoir
In my last blog I provided some random prompts for memories about all the different events, people and places that deserve your writing efforts. Below are three very basic tools to help you get started and stay organized.
- Notebooks. I know this is probably advice you have heard time and again over the years and perhaps you’ve thought, ‘oh I don’t need to do that, I will remember.” Well, with our aging brains this is not necessarily true. Throughout much of the day, especially when traveling, I need a notebook. Not only are they helpful for keeping me on track (where to be when) but they are important for providing prompts I will use later when working on my memoir. Many use the notebook app on phones, but I like pen and paper.
A notebook will help keep track of your thoughts, especially when you have been reminded of something in your past. Then use these thoughts as prompts to dig more deeply for your memoir. - Laptops. These are wonderful devices. You can carry it with you anywhere and literarily keep it on your lap to write. I do understand many or most already use laptops, but if you are buying a new computer, consider the fact that you may not always feel inspired writing at your desk. This has often happened to me, especially when there are bills to be paid or other chores. Also, it is wonderful to put a laptop in my backpack and take it with me. For example, right now I am in Alaska for a week of exploring. My favorite part of the day is looking at my notes of what I have seen that prompted me to think about the past, present and future – fodder for memoir and personal essays. I do this easily and quickly by having a laptop with me early in the mornings and at the end of the day when I can expand on those thoughts and memories.
- Sticky notes. Later in the process, after you have chosen many of the different stories you will write or have already written, another simple tool to help you organize them into the best presentation is a package of sticky notes with a large piece of construction paper. Or, perhaps a white board with different colored erasable pens, or an empty wall you don’t mind covering with colored notes You can have fun with this. Using different colors for different people or places will help your see how often they appear. Decide if you have the balance you want. For example, do have you more stories about one child and too few about another. Is that what you want? Group and regroup. Find threads that hold the stories together and explore. The visual impact of the colors will help organize your stories.
These three suggestions may seem overly simplistic, but they have often helped me manage my writing projects.
For fun, I’ve included a photo taken Sitka, Alaska. The glorious pines and the way thesun sparkles on the water reminded me of my childhood summer days in Maine. And from there I am reminded of some odd friends and picking blueberries. I’m glad I wrote a few notes that are now prompting my memory and I’m glad to have my laptop.
Take care and let me know your thoughts.
Mary