My friend E.J. overflows with creativity. She’s an accomplished artist whose work inspires joy. And she’s a writer. She definitely belongs in my tribe.
E.J. has enjoyed writing from an early age. “I found joy in my first creative writing assignment early in elementary school,” she said. “The satisfaction and ease in describing with words continued on through college, where I was encouraged by professors along the way.”
She recently decided to become more serious about her writing. “My goal was to write more and to add some discipline to the craft,” she said. So, in January, she posted on Facebook that she would like to form a writing group of six to eight people. Six people immediately responded.
She wanted to keep the group small so there would be ample time to read and discuss their works. Also, keeping it small would allow them to meet in each other’s homes.
Members bring a variety of talents to the group. E.J. is a retired art educator, avid gardener, and active artist. The others, also mostly retired, consist of educators, an attorney and musician, a nurse, a physician, and another gardening enthusiast.
So far, their writings have been autobiographical and are built around an assigned theme, like their current one of “Never Have I Ever.”
“Our writing backgrounds vary with a few of us having been published,” E.J. said. She is currently writing a collection of stories entitled “Memorable People Along My Path.”
The group’s monthly meetings are rich times of discussion. They each take a turn reading their work, and then the group talks about it.
“Our written stories often prompt oral stories,” E.J. said. “And friendships are deepening–a bonus.”
The group, named the “Word Wizards,” sends a traveling trophy (made by E.J.) home with the night’s “winner.”
“At the end of our meetings, we cast a vote for the piece that touched us the most. It has been emphasized that it is not for the ‘best piece’ as there is no best–just a piece we particularly enjoyed. That person chooses the topic for the next work.”
Since she’s still active as an artist, she spends a lot of time in her art studio. Her most popular pieces are Santas. She estimates she sells about 200 a year and, in total, over 1,000. You can see why–they’re fabulous!! You can see more here. And, more of her sensational art, gorgeous garden, and personal musings here.
And, like all (good) writers, she reads. When she’s in her art studio, she’s listening to a book. She likes to listen to biographies, mysteries, and books on making art. When she reads a tangible book, she gravitates toward art books, art magazines, short stories, and biographies.
I’m a big believer in developing your creativity and artistic skills in community like E.J. is doing. We need each other to grow and improve.
You may not think of yourself as creative, but I’ll bet I could show you how you are. We all offer each other gifts and talents unique to ourselves. And there’s an easy way to boost your creativity–surround yourself with other creatives.
Who in your life is challenging you to be your best?
Leslie Watkins
We love EJ. I still have Santas my boys made in her art classes. Loved catching up on her now.
Patience Renzulli
Wonderful, inspirational story about a wonderful, inspirational woman. Brava!
Tracey Buchanan
Thank you, Patience! She is pretty special!
Elly Hall
Beautiful article about a wonderful friend and neighbor for many years! She is so talented in so many ways~lots of wonderful memories!
Tracey Buchanan
So glad you enjoyed it. EJ is all that you said for sure!
E.J. Abell
Tracey, my goodness, you flatter me!! Thank you for all the nice compliments. I was at Mayfair today when a friend came up to me excited about the blog post. I had not seen it yet so I came home and read It immediately.. Thank you. You are very kind. And let’s do lunch again soon!
EJ
Tracey D. Buchanan
Not flattery…just the facts! Thanks for sharing your talent with so many. (And lunch sounds terrific!!)
Lisa
Love “Miss E J”! Jaron loved her art classes and I’m still displaying some of his creations! So much talent and depth in E J. Her touch has blessed so many. So thankful that our paths crossed!
Paulette Petty
I remember EJ, I think. She had a son who went to PTHS if this is the same EJ. Very creative women.
E.J. Abell
Yes, Paulette…same E.J. We remember you fondly as one of Nathan’s favorite teachers.
Tracey Buchanan
She is amazing!
Leslie Watkins
Love E.J. And my kids loved her classes, too. What a fun group!
Tracey Buchanan
I still have treasures the boys made in her classes!
Donna
lovely article Tracey and to answer the question, Me!
Moving through life is challenging enough.
I strive to make the BEST of every moment
and I’m having a blast!
Tracey Buchanan
You’re doing a great job!