“The best investment is in the tools of one’s own trade.” -Benjamin Franklin
An Affair with Cookware
A few years ago, I published a humorous story about my husband’s infatuation with top-of-the-line cookware. Ed ,the household chef, spent months browsing online sites and gourmet shops in search for the perfect saute pan. In the end, he found what he was looking for.
My story ends with these words: “She’s a beauty–a sleek exterior with a professional ceramic nonstick, diamond sear coating and a glass lid. The newest addition to our cookware collection now has a place of honor on its designated shelf in the cupboard and I’ll have to say, despite being high maintenance, she outperforms the other cookware in our kitchen. She and my husband make an impressive pair, creating lovely dishes for company or everyday dinners for us.”
New Girl in the Sewing Studio
My husband is right, the correct tools make all the difference. I recently had an opportunity to acquire a new tool for my sewing studio. A friend of a friend wasn’t using her serger ( a specialized machine that finishes the seam edges as you sew), so I offered to give it a new home.
I’d been wanting a serger, the price was right, and it will add a professional touch to my hand-made clothing and craft projects. There will be a learning curve. She has four spools, two needles and and extensive instruction manual, but welcome Vivian! ( Yes, I name all my sewing machines 🙂
For the Love of Writing
So now for my other passion: writing. What are the tools needed for that endeavor? Of course there are the physical tools : pens, pencils, notebooks, journals, computer or typewriter. Each writer will have her or his own preferences here. But there are less tangible tools to include as well.
Stephen King (On Writing) say that every writer’s toolbox should have: vocabulary (voice), a fundamental knowledge of grammar, personal style, and commitment to the work.
Digging deeper Elizabeth Gilbert (Big Magic) says writers need COURAGE (“living a life that is driven more strongly by curiosity than by fear”) ENCHANTMENT (being ready and open when new ideas strike) PERMISSION (define yourself as a writer) PERSISTENCE (hold yourself together through all the phases of your writing journey) TRUST(trust yourself, your process, your work)
So there you have it! Here’s wishing you a gloriously abundant toolbox for your creative life!
Threads of Thought
What is your creative outlet? What tool (or tools) help you achieve your best work?
A book is a gift you can open over and over again. Gift yourself or a friend this season. Available now in paperback, eBook, or Kindle Unlimited.
I love how you write, it feels as though you are right here telling me a story. This is why your books are so enjoyable. When I read them it is as though we are sitting together with a warm beverage and you are telling me stories. Keep writing.
I love how you write, it feels as though you are right here telling me a story. This is why your books are so enjoyable. When I read them it is as though we are sitting together with a warm beverage and you are telling me stories. Keep writing.
Thanks for reading!