Welcome to 30 Days of Writers on Stolen Moments! I’m excited to bring you interviews with various writers that I have met in my lifetime. Each one has their own unique story and reason for writing. I have tried to include a variety of writers for you!
Up first, we have Mandy Baker. I met Mandy Baker through a Coast Guard forum. I knew pretty early that we’d get along as we share a few things in common. We’re both writers who also blog. We both have Coast Guard men in ours lives. And we both dabble in photography. I’m excited that she agreed to join my celebration of writers!
Mandy Baker
1. Please tell us a little bit about you as a person.
I am a Coast Guard wife and have been married for eleven years now! We currently live in Connecticut with our spoiled Calico named, Missy. I am working towards my BA in English through AMU. When I’m not writing, I can usually be found behind my camera taking pictures of my life and world around me. I love to travel and see new places. Travelling is a shared passion between my husband and I; that may be why we are so well suited for the Coast Guard lifestyle. We try to take some sort of vacation every year, with a big one every other year. I love my life as a Coast Guard wife and would never change anything about the past decade!
2. Tell us about you as a writer.
I first discovered my passion for writing during a creative writing class in Jr. High. I’ve written off and on ever since then. I am a regular contributor to the website Homefront United Network. It was the first place my work was ever published. I also have a personal blog where I write about my life and my thoughts, feelings and general musings. I recently self-published my first novel, The Curse! It is the fulfillment of a long time dream. (My novel is available through Amazon or by messaging me through Facebook)
3. What types of writing have you written? Which is your favorite to write and why?
I have done a lot of real life writing. Articles about the Coast Guard, travel and relationships have been my number one specialty on Homefront United Network. I have also written fictional short stories and poetry. My favorite has probably been writing my novel. It started out as a short story for a creative writing class I was taking. My husband read it and practically begged me to expand on the story. One day I sat down at my computer and started doing exactly that. About six months later, I was pushing the publish button on Createspace!
4. What are the three things you need at your side as you write? Why?
Let’s see, three things I need with me when I write… Coffee or wine; they are my two favorite beverages. One energizes me and the other relaxes me, so it depends on the time of day and how I am feeling which I choose. She is not necessarily a must, but my kitty laying on my lap or across my desk while I am writing is one of favorite things. She can be a distraction at times, but she also helps keep me relaxed which is an important part of my writing process. Lastly, bad horror movies or good music; depending the mood I’m in. Either one gives me the background noise I need to feel inspired.
5. If you were to give other writers one piece of advice, what would it be?
Never give up. Dreams do come true. If it is your dream to write, then write. It may not be in your perfect timing, but it will happen if you keep at it and are willing to work. It isn’t easy by any means, but it is all worth it.
Nice! Can't wait for this series and to get to know other writers!