For years, I thought setting aside time to write meant setting aside several hours each day to write page after page of complete manuscript. With a job, a family and social obligations, writing even a paragraph seemed impossible. Frustration haunted me until I changed my attitude about writing.

Instead of living in my dream where I rose each morning, fixed a cup of coffee and sat down at my computer to pump out several pages, I checked back into reality and reassessed my day. Looking at my basic schedule, I discovered some consistent time each day that I penciled in as writing time. Although I may not write as much as I want, I do write.

First, I determined what constitutes "writing." I may spend time researching a topic, taking notes, finding resources or making lists of ideas. My writing time might include searching websites for publishers and their needs. I may even spend my writing time organizing my notes so the next session involves putting pen to paper. Of course, I write text, then edit and rewrite.

Second, I organized my "writing area." I placed the items I need most within reach. I have a shelf for miscellaneous paperwork, such as notes and drafts. I keep a dictionary, children's wordbook and other necessary resources close to my computer. I also filled the room with things I love, so that I enjoy my time tapping the keys.

Third, I chose specific times during the day to aim at writing. For me, my half hour lunch works well. I find a relatively quiet spot and write rough drafts or do rewrites. In the evening I find time, usually another half hour, to research, write, or do whatever I need at the time. The weekend usually lends me time to dig in and work for a few more hours.

Last, a few tips for catching extra writing time. Keep a notebook and sharp pencil with you at all times, you never know when you might be stuck in traffic, sit in a waiting room, stand in line or (wow) get some free time. Store ideas for writing in your notebook, pocket, purse, phone or anywhere else you can remember to find it. Pay attention and grab those moments.

Ecclesiastes Chapter 3 tells us "There is a time for everything." That includes writing. Most of us find time do what we think of as important. Christopher Paul Curtis, the Newbery honor and Coretta Scott King award winning author of The Watson's Go to Birmingham-1963, wrote each day on his factory's lunch hour. Through his perseverance he produced several important works in children's literature today.

Stay positive. Remember your writing is important to you. Find a place to organize your writing. Set a time to write, however long or short. If discouragement creeps in, or you miss a writing session, focus on the next one. Keep a notebook and pencil handy for those "bonus" writing minutes. Now go pour a cup of coffee and write, write, write!