What inspires you?

As a writer, I occasionally need a break. Sometimes that means leaving my office and going home to sit on the porch and write. Other times, it takes going more than the three blocks to the house.

I've found that driving is a great time to plot. So, often I will hop in the FJ and head anywhere. It's 65 miles to the quilt shop in Glasgow -- a good distance for plotting. Or 90 miles to Havre and the closest Walmart if I'm stuck and really need to sort out my book.

Tomorrow I'm heading west toward Glacier Park for the Flathead Writers conference. When I was asked to be one of the presenters, I was delighted. It's a beautiful time of the year to be on the road and it's five hours of plotting time.

There is something about driving that sets my mind free. I can figure out problems. Or I can just think about the rest of my book. Driving inspires me, especially when I'm driving through Montana where my books are set. The trees and bushes are turning color, the prairie has dried to a pale yellow and the creeks and rivers are running clear. It's a wonderful time to drive across the state.

Last time I was in Glacier Park I saw a mountain goat balanced on a rock ledge. I almost always see eagles, hawks, antelope and deer. The highway is two-lane across the top of the state called the Hi-Line. Along the way, I can let ideas run wild. If my characters get to talking to me though, I'll pull over in a wide spot, grab my AlphaSmart and write down a scene or two.

Along with the drive, I'm looking forward to being around other writers. There is nothing more inspiring than that. So I will get some writing done because I won't be able to help myself. All that inspiration will have me itching to get back to my book. Those characters never let me get too far away from them.

Hope this fall is inspiring you.