Ann Ipock
            Humorist, author, speaker

Georgetown Times

I need news and a little inspiration

By Ann Ipock                                                               April 10, 2008

As a writer I am constantly trying to find the muse — that inspiration that comes from deep within, that voice that whispers “you can do it,” that sensation of “aha!”

In other words, it’s like, “What can I write about this week?” Too bad it’s not something we can harness, bottle up and pull off the shelf when we need it, because we ALL need it.

You don’t have to be an artist — painter, writer, musician, sculptor, weaver, woodworker, welder, designer, etc. — to benefit from the muse.

When I sat down to write this column I wanted to say that all kinds of flowery, exotic and mystical things spur me on. After all, readers frequently ask me this question. It would be easy to rattle off a few things: say, classical music, a newborn baby, an early spring, winning a writing award. And though they do inspire me, other conditions help to actually push me to write (thereby clearing out my brain): Getting organized, not feeling rushed, surrounding my five senses with new and pleasing stimuli — and this one happens often when I travel.

As for the first, getting organized: I know this sounds absolutely contrary to everything you’ve ever read about writers or artists, (the old stereotypes), but keep in mind we’re all different. If my house is neat, my laundry is caught up and there’s plenty of good, healthy food in the kitchen, I feel — well, I feel free. And when I feel free, I’m not distracted with cluttered thoughts and knee-jerk exasperation. It’s a surefire way to clear out my brain, once again, for creative, fun thoughts.

Not feeling rushed is a huge burden lifted in any area of my life. Another way of putting this might be, “Stress-free for me is where it’s at.” Though I move quickly and hubby Russell calls me “Speedy Gonzales” — whether I’m driving, getting dressed or running errands — that’s just me. But I can’t stand to feel like I’m living in a pressure cooker — “Hurry, quick, you’re late!” As far as that goes, that type of pressure not only stops the muse but crushes her underfoot, in my case.

Surrounding myself with beautiful and inspiring things motivates me: any artwork by Georgia O’Keefe and also whimsical paintings and folk art. Newspapers and magazines can be a huge source of inspiration. (TV? Not so much, except for HGTV and sometimes the Food Network.) But a few of my faves for reading yours truly, Georgetown Times (I love keeping up with friends, businesses and news since we’ve moved to Wilmington); Cottage Living because our “Old Wilmington Cottage” is rather small (though quaint); Bon Appetit for recipes and world lifestyle; and USA Today because it’s chock-full of pop culture, great travel features and entertainment. PARADE is terrific since I adore Marilyn vos Savant’s “Ask Marilyn.” She is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records Hall of Fame for “Highest IQ,” but she’s a real commonsensical woman with tons of practicality. She’s a huge role model for me.

Finally, when my senses are engaged, the muse fills every conceivable space in my already jam-packed brain. In fact, it takes over worry, anxiety, fear and frustration and replaces them with hope, wonder, joy and anticipation. A blissful example is an aromatherapy massage. It’s a toss-up as to which I like better — the tea tree-scented oil or the massage itself. I guess that’s why I love my herb garden. Just a pinch of lavender rubbed between my fingers is an instant mood elevator. A delicious prime rib with au jus tickling my taste buds is another goodie. Anything regarding nature, including the night sky, the beaches and mountains — both flora and fauna — and changing of the four seasons, is wonderful. Finally, color fills my life in every way possible. I guess that’s why I decorate with combinations of red and yellow, pink and green, gold and black often.
I saved this one for last: Whenever possible, I like to surround myself with positive, interesting people who are making a difference in the world — whether they’re role models, neighbors or a best friend.

Two types of people inspire me: a doer and a good listener — and add to that: someone not afraid to take chances.
I can say without reservation now that the muse is there when everything is lined up right for me.

I’d compare it to a kaleidoscope that I have to turn and tinker with. Many different colors and shapes are coaxed and moved about until a beautiful mosaic appears. And the final product is bliss.

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