From Idea to Finished Product

I caught crocheting much like someone catches a cold. I was exposed to it by my grandmother and mother.

The steel crochet hooks, bright threads, and intricate designs were stamped onto my young psyche. Working with thread proved a challenge for my childish hands, so yarn was substituted.

Collecting crochet patterns and yarn became a natural extension of the hobby. When I'd see a cute baby afghan or a sweater design, I'd print it out and tuck it away. Even today, I stay out of craft stores because I lose track of time among the rows of dazzling colors and textures.

Do I use every pattern or skein of yarn? No. Many of them sit in a file or closet for years, while others are produced immediately.

My writing idea file reminds me of my penchant for gathering things I hope to use someday. They grab my attention for a short time, but never make it to the production stage.

What causes an idea to land in a file instead of on a page? Often, the lack of attention I give it is the culprit. If I mull it over, examine all angles, and let my mind go down various pathways, I may unearth a story fit for publication. Other times no matter how much I brainstorm a thought, it fizzles out like a 4th of July sparkler.

How do your story ideas go from the initial vision to a finished product?