Monique Polak

I write when I'm jogging and sometimes, when I'm in the shower. I know this sounds odd. But it's true. Not that I'm actually writing between strides, or while I'm soaping up... but I've found that some of my best ideas come when I am NOT at the computer. That's why, today, I want to talk about the importance of having a writer's notebook -- or at least some scrappaper and a pen -- with you AT ALL TIMES. BECAUSE YOU NEVER KNOW WHEN AN IDEA WILL STRIKE. And when you get to be my age (47), if you don't record a good idea, you might lose it altogether. I keep pen and paper by the bed (sometimes I get ideas when I am dozing off or waking up), and in the little pouch I wear when I go jogging. And if I get a good idea while I'm in the shower, I hop right out and jot it down. 

Today's Friday and I've got two kinds of writing to do. First, I want to write my review of Sophie Kinsella's new book, Remember Me? Then, I want to get back to my rewrite. It's coming along more quickly than I expected -- and because this story is so personal (it's based, as you may know by now, on my mum's childhood), it feels like a labour of love. Have a great weekend -- and don't forget that notebook!! Here's to loads of great ideas striking at odd moments and in unusual places!!!