Another year, another “Liz Writes…,” another trip wherein I become excited once again about sitting in front of this (or any) computer to type words into a writing program. That all sounds very clinical, and honestly I could make this prediction with my eyes closed: I go somewhere new, I learn a few new things, I talk to people of similar mindset, and I sit in front of my computer and type words. This is a formula for inspiration, for me.
A cursory Google leads me to believe that this is not a new idea. Travel, getting away from work, being in community with similar people — these are all things that can contribute to this energized feeling. I want to get back to the office and make change happen at the university where I work. I want to get back to my home office and finish that damn novel. I want to connect with more people and do more things. You only live once, you know?
And so I found myself in Albuquerque, New Mexico, at a conference for professional development reasons. Blah, blah, right? Well, I have the distinct fortune to actually enjoy my job, and along with that, I use words and marketing terms and make content in my professional life — which is pretty close to what I do here, too. Because of that, I feel like I’m double-dipping at these conferences at times. I take away insights not just for my professional life — but also for the murder of hobbies I’ve gathered around myself in the form of this blog.
I’m ruminating on the conflagration of events that have brought me to this moment in my life. Everyone at this conference had a different story — a story they’re telling, a story they’re living, a story they carry with them. It’s great to interact with folks who are of like mind and similar backgrounds, but who also carry different stories.
My story is one you all are familiar with. I work at a university. I have a background in technology marketing. I have one cat, one divorce, one self-published novel, and one anxiety disorder. The combination of these things has led to me being in Albuquerque, enjoying beautiful weather and inspiring community with people I see every couple of years.
It’s nice. It’s energizing. It’s exhausting.
I’m on the plane home now, and I find myself mostly filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience all of these things for the past week. Get ready for more content from me, more writing and news and photos. I know that the energy will eventually fade, so I’m not going to make big promises. But I know that I have to start making more things. My heart and mental health depend on it.
Liz Cultivates | L.M. Fern 
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