We are lucky to sit down with aspiring author, Stacy Green, today. Thanks for coming on, Stacy! Visit her at: 
www.stacygreen.net
Where are you from?
Grew up in SE Iowa, and I live in Marion, Iowa.
What’s your writing process?
To write as much as I can, when I can! I always try to leave off in a good spot and walk away feeling positive. I usually start out going over the last 1000 words I wrote to get back into the scene and make sure it’s working. Then I dive in!
How do you create your characters?
I just let them talk. Once I decide their basic characteristics, I start playing around with them, doing various writing exercises to get a better feel for them.
When and why did you begin writing?
I’ve written on and off since I was a kid, creating little stories for my friends. I hadn’t written much since college, and just started dabbling again. It began as journaling ideas, and then I decided to see if I could create a whole story.
What inspired you to write your first book? Tell us about it!
My first book is incredibly long and languishing under my desk, but it’s got a special place in my heart. I had no idea how to write a book when I began it, or even what the core plot would be. I just started with characters I loved and sat down to see where I could take them. Back then, I was a completely organic writer, and while that has it’s merits, I’ve definitely learned the importance of planning and structure.
How do you balance family and writing?
I’m a stay at home mom and do childcare, so I’ve got to be creative with my times. I always schedule Wednesday mornings and Sat/Sun afternoons for writing and then hole up in my office to get as much done as I can.
Who is your favorite author and why?
I have to pick ONE? I’ve always loved Anne Rice. She was the first writer that truly awed me by the characters and world she created, and she inspired me to write.
What was the hardest part of writing your book?
Learning how important planning and structure premier-pharmacy.com/product/lexapro/ are. Of course great ideas come as we go along, but things go a lot easier (and you have a lot fewer drafts) if you’ve got core scenes and plot points planned ahead of time.
Share 3 things you have learned about the craft of writing since writing your book.
1) Write as much as you can
2) Read as much as you can, and don’t compare others writing to your own. Just appreciate and learn.
3) Follow the blogs and learn from the experts, but don’t go overboard. Too much of a good thing can completely stunt the writing process.
What was one of the most surprising things you learned about yourself through your writing?
That I’m a lot more creative than I realized.
What do you do when you are not writing?
Play with my daughter, read, spend time with family. Pretty boring, but I like it.
How does social media fit into your writing world?
It’s becoming a big issue. As an unpublished writer, social media is an integral part of building a platform. I try to spend 15-30 min a day tweeting/responding to blogs, and I’ve just started my own blog. Getting followers is tough, but I’m going to keep plugging away!
Do you belong to any writing critique groups or professional organizations?
Have they helped you improve your writing?
I have a critique partner, and she’s been an immense help. She’s a whiz at grammar and structure, and she has not only been invaluable at working out the plot but also looking at the story from a readers pov.
Any current writing projects?
Just finishing this suspense thriller and then starting the editing process.
What tools/resources do you feel are must-haves for writers?
A support system – be it online or in “real life.” Twitter, and follow a few good blogs. And read Don Maas’s Writing The Breakout Novel. Essential!
Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?
It’s important to listen to advice and always try to better yourself, but you’ve got to write the book you want to. If you don’t love the book and your characters, it will show in your writing.
Tea or coffee? Or just chocolate?
CHOCOLATE!
Where can we find you on the web?
http://stacygreenauthor.blogspot.com/ and www.stacygreen.net