Writing without editing is harder than one would think. It seems as if there is a constant editor in my mind, telling me to go back and change something, everything. But the assignment is to keep writing without editing for 7-10 minutes, so that is what I will do. If I can't think of anything to write, I can write "I can't think of anything to write". And now.. I can't think of anything to write! It's like when you're doing something just fine, and then you start to think about if you can't do it, and then all of a sudden, you can't do it! Like talking. I can be having a conversation with someone, and then when my brain gets ahead of itself, my words get all tripped up and silly sounding. I prefer writing, because I can edit. But I can't edit right now! So it's like talking, but writing! Talking is difficult for me because I feel as if I can express myself more clearly in written form. And I tend to talk very quickly, which can be off-putting for some people. A lot of people. Even myself, sometimes! I don't like my tendency to blurt out my responses, but I guess that's just the way I talk, so I had better accept it. I have found that in life, accepting yourself just makes everything better. That's why I don't shave! I prefer not to contribute to an industry that uses women and girls' self esteem (or lack there-of) against them. Luckily, my husband doesn't mind my hairy legs and armpits! And it saves SO much time in the shower. He actually prefers soft hair than prickly stubble, so it works out great. I wonder if my children will shave? I'm pregnant with a boy right now, but I wonder if we have a girl, if she will decide to shave or not? I shaved when I was younger, but there came a point when I decided that any person that I date would need to accept me for me, and part of that includes not shaving. I feel more like myself when I'm not conforming to that particular societal... uh, thing. I can't think of the proper word. Dang not editing! This is harder than I would have thought. How many minutes has it been?! Oh, 30 seconds left. Whew. I prefer editing. I like going over my words and finding ways to make them flow together better. But I guess not editing gives a person a lot of material to be able to edit later.

2.    Creative Writing Piece: Free write for 7-10 minutes. Do not stop to think, do not edit. If you cannot think of anything to write, write “I cannot think of anything to write” until something else comes to mind. The exercise here is to get your creative pathways unblocked.