Writing in the Third Age
Episode #001
Guest Speaker ~ Barb Parcells
“When you reach a certain age, you want to read about people you can relate to. There are very few people out there writing fiction that focus on older people and their own situations, their own needs, fears, and making choices.” – Barb Parcells
Barb Parcells, author and blogger, joined me in my virtual studio to talk about the joys of writing in her “third age”, the impact meditation has on her storytelling, and various pearls of wisdom.
Barb and I met years ago on social media within a women’s entrepreneurial group. It didn’t take us long to realize we have a unique connection. We claim we’re sisters from another mother regardless of our age and location difference. The things she’s done astounds me. And, her wisdom. She is a wise woman with stories to share. Our conversations are always long and slide effortlessly from one topic to others.
In the early stages of publishing Elements For A Healthier Life, I reached out to Barb and asked if she’d like to contribute an article on a topic of her choice. Her articles ranged from personal stories to living without judgment to yoga to mindset. The editor of the digital magazine loved reading her submissions.
Enjoy our conversation.
Books Mentioned in Podcast:
Song of an Extraordinary Life*
Second Chances*
Gifts of an Ordinary Life*
Writing Tools:
Barb’s number one tool she picked up over the last fifteen years has been meditation. It’s her absolute number one. “A lot of people would put journaling up there, that’s my number two,” Barb shared. “Meditation helps me clear the cob webs out and focus on the present moment.
Pearl of Wisdom about writing:
“Don’t let anyone tell you you can’t. Do what you can,” Barb said. “If all you got right now is a notebook and some pencils and an hour – do it. Just show up on the page.”
Biography:
Barbara Parcells has wanted to be a writer since she was 5 years old. Born and raised in New York City, she grew surrounded by the publishing world of The Saturday Evening Post, The New Yorker, and the great publishing houses. After raising a family and working in the public relations and marketing industries, Barb retired to upstate New York where she blogs and writes on topics that speak to women “of a certain age.” She is currently working on her first novel. https://barbparcellswritingalife.wordpress.com/
https://flowerbearsgarden.blogspot.com
Elements For A Healthier Life Magazine:
Contributor Writer
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Podcast music by Joseph McDade
*Amazon Affiliate Links. As an Amazon Associate I receive a commission from qualifying purchases
I could so relate to many things you and Barbara spoke about. As a new writer (despite being 81) I loved hearing similar experiences. One example is that my prime character appears to me in my twilight sleep and has written her story. My story occurred in a dream. If I don’t feel it I don’t write it.
Congratulations on your first podcast and I look forward to the conversations with other writers and creatives.
It warms my heart know this episode resonated with you, Roslyn. Isn’t it wonderful when our characters connect with us when we’re sleeping? It’s remembering all the details in the morning that can be a challenge (for me, anyways). May the ink flow effortlessly as you put pen to paper, and the keys keep up with your typing. Best wishes on your book. You’ll have to let us know how you’re doing with it.