The Insecure Writer’s Support Group (#IWSG)

 Our April 1 question – The IWSG’s focus is on our writers. Each month, from all over the globe, we are a united group sharing our insecurities, our troubles, and our pain. So, in this time when our world is in crisis with the covid-19 pandemic, our optional question this month is: how are things in your world?

• On March 10, Michigan Governor Whitmer issued the State of Emergency Executive Order.
• On March 16, she ordered restaurants and the schools closed
• On March 21, she ordered a stay-home, stay safe lockdown for all residents to begin on the 24^th

I began my physical distancing on March 16, so technically, as I write this (Monday, 30^th), I’m on Day 16 of lockdown, with only four trips out for groceries or take-out food.

I’m one of the fortunate. My life hasn’t changed much because of this pandemic. Retired and writing full-time, I’m used to solitary time. The biggest change for me has been in missing lunches and dinners with friends and classmates, no meetings with other writers, and no book club discussions around the table.

Our library has been closed along with other businesses, but thankfully, I have several shelves of to-be-read (TBR) books. I thought I’d be reading more, but so far, I haven’t. Now that the stay-in has been expanded to the end of April, I expect that lack of reading to change.

My normal days, which look like my COVID-19 days at the moment, are about writing, jigsaw puzzles, reading, watch TV, and added cooking. I’ve never been fond of cooking but have always maintained a full pantry. Now that pantry provides me opportunities to be a bit more creative than I’ve been in the past. It helps that I have my own cookbook, The Super Simple Easy Basic Cookbook,  to fall back on.

All-in-all, this pandemic has treated me well. So far.

I wish we could say the same from those on the front lines: the doctors, nurses, caregivers, first responders, and the families of those who have succumbed to this horrible virus. My thoughts are with them all.

May the shortages stop and the line flatten quickly.

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Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!

Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer – aim for a dozen new people each time – and return comments. This group is all about connecting!