How I started to Slice - SOLC #1

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Two Writing Teachers

Two years ago, I thought my friend and colleague Michelle was C.R.A.Z.Y.  She had convinced me into writing a blog in 2010.  Now it was January 2011.  She was talking all about her new group of online friends.

She called them "The Slicers."

"Yeah.  Uh-huh.  That sounds nice," I said.

Then she talked about how she was becoming such a better writer and thinker.  She gushed about her new writing community.

"Writing community?" I thought.  "Oh - I can't be part of that.  I'm a big talker, but I'm no writer!"

Fast forward to last year, March 2012.  Michelle encourages Lynn at school to try slicing.  Lynn has started a blog and writes pretty often.

I ask Lynn if she's going to slice.  She's not feeling confident about writing every day, but she decides to join.

I'm still not convinced that I can do it.  Where will I find the time?

I visited Ruth & Stacey's website.  I clicked around. I stalked other slicers in February.

I jumped in with both feet.  I was nervous.  I was unsure of my ability to write something that would make sense.  I worried that no one would read or comment.

What happened after 31 straight days of writing?
I found a community where everyone is valued.  I made connections.  I found my voice.

I'm excited for all the first-time slicers... get ready for a month you won't forget!

We're so glad you're here!

P.S.  Thanks, Michelle and Lynn for your ability to listen, hold me accountable, and your friendship!! XOXO
P.P.S. Thanks to Ruth and Stacey for giving us a place to become a community of writers!

Sharing Slices - SOLC #9

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Two Writing Teachers

It's been two weekend days and three long days of testing since I last saw my 5th grade group.  You know, the ones who "signed up" to join me in writing each day in March.

I'm excited to say that two of the four students have written EVERY DAY since March started.  When one left her notebook at school, she found paper and wrote her slices there.  The two other students said they've written a few days, but their notebook was at home.  I assured all of them that it was optional to be part of the challenge - it was great if they wrote, it was fine if they didn't.... no pressure!

I showed the group a few of the comments I've received on my writing (thanks, everyone!), and I asked the two EVERY DAY writers if they wanted to share their writing with each other.  I invited them to sit on the rug and have a conversation about their writing.

They did just that.  They sat for a good 10 minutes, reading slices to each other and having a conversation.

I'm sorry that I wasn't sitting next to them.  I'm sorry I missed it, but I know that conversation will inspire these students to keep on writing -- even when it gets tough -- for 22 more days!

Happy writing to all, and thank you so much for your encouraging comments!  I appreciate them!