Summary

The article introduces a new book club project initiated by Scot Butwell, inviting writers to connect through book discussions and writing prompts, and shares ten personal insights about the author, Belcairn, who is embarking on a writing journey.

Abstract

Belcairn, a writer with a diverse background, has recently joined a unique book club project started by Scot Butwell. This project not only involves reading and discussing a book but also using it as inspiration for writing prompts. Belcairn, who has lived in Scotland, England, and now Canada, has begun writing as part of a New Year's resolution and is enjoying the process. The author, who writes under a pseudonym, has had a varied career and enjoys cooking, long walks with her dog, and plans to spend part of her time in Italy. She also shares her experience with COVID-19, having been vaccinated and still contracting the virus, which she compares to a bad case of the flu. The article encourages readers to join the book club, which includes a diverse group of writers, and to follow Belcairn's Medium account for more stories.

Opinions

Belcairn values the connections made through writing and reading communities, emphasizing the benefits of the book club project beyond just reading.
The author is enthusiastic about writing, viewing it as a fun and exploratory endeavor, especially as a new pursuit following a New Year's resolution.
Belcairn has a pragmatic approach to her writing, not adhering strictly to recipes or consistency in her culinary creations, which is reflective of her adaptable and eclectic nature.
The author expresses a love for Italy and is proactive in learning Italian, suggesting a passion for culture and language.
Belcairn reflects on the impact of COVID-19, downplaying its severity in her experience compared to the flu, and maintains a positive outlook by continuing her routine of long walks regardless of the weather.
The article conveys a sense of humility and self-deprecating humor, as seen in the author's pseudonym use and light-hearted references to the Scottish weather and Canadian climate extremes.

Finally, A “10 Things About Me” Article That Could Benefit You

Make new connections, read a great book, explore some new writing opportunities!

Not me — but almost…photo by Michal Binkiewicz on Unsplash

Last week, I connected with Scot Butwell in one of my favourite ways to meet fellow writers — through the comments. I found out that he’s starting up a great new project — a kinda ‘book club with benefits’.

Not those kinds of benefits.

The book itself sounds amazing — perhaps a challenging read in some respects but with a personal angle for me — and as well as discussing the book we will also use it for writing prompts. How cool is that?

As the first step in this endeavour, Scot has asked us to share 10 things about ourselves so we can get to know one another. I’ve added links to a few things I’ve written that share more detail.

Interested in joining the group? Check out the Salt Path article, a link is at the end of this article.

Here we go ….

1.. My name is not really Belcairn (shocking news!) I’ve never written anything before, I’m not even very active in other social media, so doing this on the DL, as they have probably stopped saying by now.

2.. I’m originally from Scotland — you’ll see references to this in a lot of my writing.

Posh. Why I don’t care that I’m not.

And how it makes me a better writer.

medium.com

3.. I used to live in the southwest of England, where the Salt Path is set so I’m looking forward to reading about some of my favourite old haunts.

4.. I now live in the land of ice and snow aka Canada. No matter how many times people tell you it’s cold before you get here you have NO IDEA how cold it is and how long winter lasts until you arrive. Summer by contrast lasts 10 minutes and is searingly hot and buggy. Better than the dreich Scottish weather though!

5.. I started writing as part of a New Years’ resolution. Right now it’s early days, I’m just feeling my way into it and I’m definitely having fun!

The Easy Way I’m Sticking To My New Year’s Resolutions – And You Can Too

It’s not too late to make this the best year ever

medium.com

6.. I’ve had an eclectic career — research scientist, software developer, trainer, bank drone, writer. I get bored easily…

7.. My current favourite food is chopped banana with an oatcake crumbled on top and cream poured over, but generally I’m a big fan of cooking and eating. I’ve published a few recipes but I don’t measure or make things the same way twice so it’s kind of difficult to recreate in print, but I have published 3 recipes so far. Check them out.

8.. My absolute favourite place to visit is Italy. I’m planning to move there part-time soon and I’m trying to learn Italian.

Why I’m Learning Italian from an Australian

And a Brit, and an Owl.

medium.com

9.. Yes I did get COVID. Yes, I was vaccinated- thrice. I’ve had much worse flu.

10.. Whether it’s a frigid snowy day or sunny and humid you’ll find me out on long walks with my dog, listening to either my favourite podcasts or BBC Radio 2.

How your podcast is damaging your brain

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If you fancy joining us on this journey you’ll be joining some great writers like C.A. Jaymes, The Sober Vegan Yogi, Scot Butwell, Klara Jane Holloway, Jane Kelley, Evon, Janice Macdonald, Michael L Butler, Mary DeVries, Andy Spears, Angie Mangino

This whole idea started out for Scot based on an article by Linda Caroll. His article on the Salt Path is here….

Come Walk the Salt Path With Raynor and Moth Winn and Me

Take a trip along England’s longest and best-loved trail

medium.com

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