It’s pretty drab in Seattle right now. Grey skies, drizzle, drizzle and more drizzle. When I walk my pup to the view of the water, the clouds and fog are so thick, that on many days there is no view. This can be a downer, but if you think like a writer you can put your environment to work, even on the darkest of days.

There are always interesting things to write about. Look close. Go on a walk and watch as steam seeps out and rises from under the deck of the house you pass, notice the twisted trunk of the Italian Plum tree and the moss that creeps and covers it’s limbs. Feel awakened by the cool air that chills your sinuses each time you breathe. Be grateful for the splash of unexpected color when a blue jay drops onto the sidewalk in front of you and then flits away.

Go beyond your first reaction to the day and go deeper. Even when it’s bright and beautiful, really look at the world around you. I’m not the best at this. I tend to walk and listen to my audio book or think to myself, but sometimes it’s a way to appreciate the little things, and an even better way to start off a writing prompt.

WRITING PROMPT 1:Take a walk in your neighborhood. Look closely at everything and everyone that you pass, and then come home and write about it.

WRITING PROMPT 2: Look out your window. Describe in detail what you see.

WRITING PROMPT 3: Monica stormed out of the house, down the street and…