Recently I've fallen completely out of touch with writing. One of the most important rules for a writer is to do something every day. This doesn't mean producing something wonderful each day. Even if its just a page of nonsense or random thoughts, it keeps the juices flowing. It may be surprising what sometimes comes out of distracted train of thought scribblings. Inspiration may be lurking just below the surface.

Everyone says a writer should set aside a time and place for the daily session and stick to it, no matter what's happening around them. Find the best time of day or night, when the Muse is most accessible. Consider it an unbreakable appointment.

Its hard to stick to a rigid schedule. My best times seem to frequently change. For awhile, early morning was the most productive time. Then for some unknown reason, my Muse decided to become a night-owl. For months I did some of my best writing with the good old marble notebook and favorite pen while sitting at the kitchen table. Suddenly it lost its magic. I don't know why. Obviously its time for another change.