Big Things Ahead at Writers’ Haven: Your 2025 Inspiration Awaits!
Celebrations, giveaways, discounts, new courses, and ways to connect — discover all the incredible opportunities waiting for you at Writers’ Haven this season and beyond!
Did you know I think of you and imagine you as I write?
Lately, I’ve been struggling with what I used to tell myself was perfectionism. Now I know it’s anxiety. Analysis paralysis. Brain fog after latest round of Covid. Overwhelm after the election.
Know what’s helping me today? Sitting down to write this post to you. The act of slowing down and being present gives some order to this overwhelming time in my life. So, thank you.
For the past ten years or so, I’ve been trying hard to navigate the surreal nature of my life. To be sure, there’s been SO much disappointment and change, but also so much growth. I have so many more reasons to celebrate than to fret, and so much good news to share with you all (I promise, it’s very exciting, so stay tuned!).
On the medical front…
I was recently diagnosed with familial hyperlipidemia (or familial hypercholesterolemia, FH), a genetic disorder that makes it hard for the body to clear cholesterol, so I now take a twice-monthly injection of Repatha. I made this short video to show how I give myself an injection (note to the squeamish: it’s NOT cringey). P.S. Enjoy the views of my 56-year-old, winter belly! lol
In other medical news, I recently received my medical cannabis card for chronic pain, a seizure disorder, and PTSD. None of these issues are so debilitating that I can’t function, but my doctor and I agree that if there’s relief to be had, I’d be silly not to accept it.
But, as uncomfortable as it was to share the video featuring my muffin top, I almost didn’t share the news about my medical card because…
a) …I’ve been conditioned to believe that all cannabis use is bad
b) …I’ve been encouraged to believe that cannabis is a gateway drug to bigger, badder things, and
c) …I worry that readers of this post will judge me.
But, screw all that worry. This is Writers’ Haven, where many truths — especially uncomfortable truths — are shared. I created this newsletter to build a community of authentic communicators and sharers. And so, if I’m not being real, then what’s the point?
Okay. Now, back to the weed.
For most of my life, I’ve tried to avoid certain medications (especially opioids) for managing pain. Many of them just don’t agree with my system, while others simply don’t work. I’m a slow metabolizer, which doesn’t help (hello hypothyroidism and the MTHFR mutation!). Plus, I have a deep, family history of addiction. So, I avoid opioids whenever possible.
Nevertheless, I’ve come to understand that microdosing cannabis can ease physical pain (and the anxiety that accompanies it) and can also aid one’s ability to sleep. Here’s a quick explainer about microdosing cannabis — albeit from a business that sells THC. And, though reviews are mixed, here’s what the National Institutes of Health says about microdosing cannabis. Opinions vary widely. I received my medical card approval from a board-certified doctor.
Until writing this newsletter, I hadn’t appreciated how different states treat cannabis programs. Here’s how things look:
Still, it feels wrong that for so long, millions of people — typically from marginalized communities — had to lie and steal to obtain THC. They were judged and shunned and arrested and incarcerated, their reputations and lives destroyed over the same substance my board certified doctor now helps me buy legally (and at a significant discount) from the comfort of a store in my own neighborhood.
Growing up, I refused to touch weed. Unlike many of my peers, I just wasn’t interested, and I had good reason. My late father kept his rolled joints in an old, metal Sucrets lozenge tin in the same bathroom drawer where we kept the toothpaste and toothbrushes. When I once asked what they were, he told me the joints were his “little cigarettes.” I came to associate weed with my dad’s abusive, alcoholic behavior.
Not surprisingly, when I became a mom, I had a zero-tolerance policy about my kids using weed (and booze). We had a family history of addiction, and I knew enough about the science of brain development to appreciate the impact that weed and alcohol could have on young bodies and minds. During those tricky parenting years, I was grateful that weed was illegal, which only supported my case. I’ve known many families and friends with a more lax approach to weed and booze than mine, but I stand by my approach. I always made it clear to my kids that they could do what they wanted with their bodies as adults, but on my watch, I acknowledged our family history and posted laws.
Later, from 2015 to 2018, I went through a series of painful losses that led to my dropping 40 pounds from the stress. I was skin and bones, so I’d often layer jackets over loose-fitting clothing to hide my shrinking body. On the rare occasions when I wore dresses, my legs gave my not-so-secret secret away.
A dear friend who, at the time, used weed daily to help manage their severe anxiety, suggested I try THC to stimulate my appetite. This was 2016, and weed was still illegal in Illinois, which only sent my stress levels higher (it became legal in Illinois on 1/1/20).
I feared that a) I’d get arrested or b) my kids would find out I was using that-which-is-not-to-be-used. Nevertheless, I was an adult, and I had to find a way to eat. When I tried some weed, I immediately rediscovered my appetite.
Today, weed is legal in my state. And, now that I have chronic health issues and PTSD, I qualify for a medical cannabis card through the Illinois Department of Public Health. I currently have a piece of paper that signifies my “Provisional Access to Medical Cannabis Patient Program.” My official card should arrive soon.
I haven’t purchased anything with my medical card number yet, but I’ve been to several dispensaries, talking to the staff and learning about what’s available. I’ve previously made purchases at dispensaries for gummies, and I’ve found that I can only handle certain ones — and that they have to contain CBD. I’m not looking for a high. I’m looking for relief. Soon, I’ll make my first trip with my card.
None of this seems real.
I’m eager to learn how much I should take and how much I can handle. My instincts tell me it’s the minimum of the minimum. Thanks to my hyper vigilant nature, I suspect it’ll take quite some time to feel comfortable with all of this.
Trust me: I’ll keep you updated on the journey.
On the Writers’ Haven front…
If it’s not already crystal clear, I write to process my life, and I hope to model that approach for you.
I mean, we ALL know that life isn’t easy, but if there’s anything I’ve learned, it’s that writing can be, for many of us, a free and readily accessible tool to help work through our complicated emotions.
When I sit down to write a newsletter post like this, I often picture a reader who might be going through what I’m also dealing with. Maybe it’s someone who shares the same uncertainties as me. Perhaps it’s a writer who’s feeling imposter syndrome, or is hesitatant to explore a certain period of their life. Maybe it’s someone who’s debating how to address someone in real time.
As I write these Substack posts, the focus sometimes shifts away from what I originally meant to write, but I’ve come to understand that this is how writing works: sometimes it meanders, unfolding and unleashing things I didn’t expect. When I allow it to be, writing is often a thrilling surprise.
For the last several months, I’ve been struggling with some deeply perfectionistic (OCD?) tendencies, trying to write polished newsletters that deliver impactful messages. However, what I’ve often ended up doing is creating a draft that doesn’t feel good enough…and then leaving it in my DRAFTS folder. I’m making a promise to myself to get over that shit. Life’s just too short, and I have way too much to say.
When I sit down to write these newsletters, I’m usually in one of two states of mind:
a) excited to share some inspiration or learning that I’ve just discovered
b) hurting (or confused), needing to work through some difficult feelings
No matter how I feel, I always ask myself:
Can I be brave today and offer something deeply personal that might help someone feel less overwhelmed?
Is there something I’ve learned that might help someone?
How can I validate someone who may share these feelings?
For example, though I was devastated by the 2024 presidential election, I’m trying my best to look forward. I’m determined to infuse 2025 with as much positivity, community building, and HOPE as possible.
And, I have LOTS of exciting news for 2025!
Lots of exciting news for 2025!
Here’s a quick overview of the good stuff coming in 2025:
Teaching
In January 2025, I’ll begin as an instructor at Northwestern University, teaching mini-writing courses at Norris Center, where classes are open to the public. Join me in person on Saturday, January 11th from 1p-4p for Expressive Writing for Emotional Healing. Here’s the description:
Whether you’ve known periods of overwhelm, trauma, or significant difficulty, it’s important to process these experiences in healthy ways. In this course, you’ll learn the evidence-based technique of expressive writing to help process difficult emotions to help you get “unstuck”. The practice of Expressive Writing, pioneered by Dr. James Pennebaker in 1986, is a remarkably straightforward and FREE way to acknowledge your most troubling memories and create a framework of language that can help to move unresolved thoughts out of your head and onto the page (or even into the air). Location: Northwestern University’s Norris University Center, 1999 Campus Dr, Evanston. No writing experience necessary. No sharing of material with me or other attendees.
Note: This course covers the same information and exercises I’ve taught in previous Expressive Writing for Emotional Healing workshops.Also, in 2025, paid subscribers of this newsletter will have access to my monthly memoir lessons, during which I speak with real clients and share learnings from industry professionals. Stay tuned for more info!
Writing
I’ve been considering working with a writing coach of my own as I pull my own memoir together. I know the value of a good memoir coach, and I hope to find someone who’ll keep me organized, accountable, and able to type THE END in 2025.
Building community
After a successful first session of my inaugural writers’ salon, Workshopping @Writers’ Haven, the second 5-week session kicks off in January, and I can’t wait! All 5 spots are currently filled, but if any open up (or if we add a new cohort), I’ll be sure to post a registration link, so stay tuned!
My Silent, Virtual, Drop-in-anytime Write-Ins resume on Tuesday, January 7th. Click here for more info:
Coaching
Two of my memoir clients release their first books in the coming months, and I can’t wait to share their launch news!
Lately, I’ve been closed to new clients, but I plan to open spots for new clients in 2025. My rates jump beginning Jan 1, so if you’re curious about working with me, click here for info about how I work and secure your 2025 spot before prices go up.
Empowering
For those who’ve been waiting patiently, I’ll release my Self-Guided Memoir Course in January 2025. If you’re interested in getting a sneak peek, please click here to sign up for an early bird discount!
Selling
I now have a (tiny) digital store front: www.christinewolf.com/shop. If you’re an annual a member at Writers’ Haven (or if you’re a paid subscriber of this Substack), you’ll save 15% by using discount code WHMember24 at checkout.
I sell these adorable, literary tote bags (Writers’ Haven and Writers’ Block) which make fantastic holiday gifts for your favorite writer:
Tote bags available at www.christinewolf.com/shop I also sell services, including:
—Silent, virtual, drop-in-anytime write-ins (beginning Jan 2025)$75$50—Annual memberships to Writers’ Haven Evanston $75
—5-Day Writer’s Block (Existing members only) $170
—One hour Writing Consult with Christine $175
—5-Day Writer’s Block + Tote (Non-members) $230My book, which celebrates its FIRST BIRTHDAY on December 19, 2024, is also available in my shop:
Politics, Partnerships, & Power: The Lives of Ralph E. and Marguerite Stitt Church by Jay Pridmore and Christine Wolf (Master Wings Publishing, 2023)
If you’d like a free copy of my book in exchange for an honest review, get in touch at christinewolf.com/contact and I’ll send it to you asap!
This month’s literary giveaway is for paid subscribers only — and it’s THE BOMB
December’s Writer’s Haven Giveaway will be our best ever, and it’s reserved for PAID SUBSCRIBERS of this newsletter.
If you’re already a free subscriber (thank you!), you can upgrade to paid or simply gift a subscription to someone special (you’ll both be entered to win!). I’ll announce the winner of the giveaway on 12/10, so subscribe now while my monthly and annual subscriptions are discounted!
Here’s what’s in the December Writers’ Haven Giveaway (a $400 value), open to paid newsletter subscribers:
Top, L to R: 1) Famous Women Trivia 2) The Little Book of Feminist Saints by Julia Pierpont 3) Self Care by Leigh Stein Bottom, L to R: 1) Politics, Partnerships, & Power (coauthored by yours truly) 2) Writers' Haven MOZY blanket 3) The Author Clock (https://www.authorclock.com) Wondering where all the stuff in my giveaways comes from? Some of it I buy, and some I receive from literary-minded companies. If you have products that writers might enjoy, please get in touch! I’d love to consider featuring your items in an upcoming giveaway (or at Writers’ Haven itself)! For example: Vant sent me these cozy Hugger Chairs for the Writers’ Haven salon, and I couldn’t love them more!
Personal life
Since my sister, Beth, sudden death in January 2018, I frequently experience anticipatory grief around this time of year. This week is National Grief Awareness Week, and as such, I find comfort knowing that I’m not alone with my (sometimes overwhelming) feelings. As always, I find that writing out my emotions eases my broken heart. Since Beth died, I’ve come to understand how complicated sibling loss is, and I’m grateful for organizations like Compassionate Friends and the U.S. government’s Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) for their resources on bereavement and grief, including this and these:
From the U.S. government’s Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA) website 
From the U.S. government’s Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA) website 
From the U.S. government’s Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA) website
WOW. If you’re STILL reading this newsletter, you’ve earned a PILE of gold stars! THANK YOU!
Getting the most out of your Writers’ Haven Substack subscription
If you’ve been on the fence about upgrading to a paid subscription to Writer’s Haven by Christine Wolf, take advantage of my once-a-year 25% off sale on monthly and annual subscriptions (and cancel anytime). Through December 31st, Monthly Subscriptions are $5.25 (normally $7) and Annual Subscriptions are $48.75 (normally $65).
As a paid subscriber, here’s what you can count on:
You’ll get exclusive and early-bird access to my courses, workshops, and other Writers’ Haven offerings.
You’re automatically entered for a chance to win my monthly, subscriber-only giveaway.
You’ll receive sneak peeks of my memoir-in-progress and see your name listed on the Supporters Page of my published memoir. Founding Members ($80/year) also receive a free, signed copy of my memoir once it’s published.
And, you’ll save 15% off writer workspace rentals, workshops, courses, and merchandise in my store by using discount code WHMEMBER25.
Please know that your subscription sustains me as a working writer. It motivates me to find and share content that inspires and builds community. Your subscription reminds me that my writing matters to someone, and that people are willing to hear and share what I have to say. THANK YOU. I can’t believe I get to write for a living. I don’t know how I got so lucky.
I’d love to hear from YOU!
How do you plan to celebrate the holiday season?
If grief is involved in this holiday season, how are you taking care of yourself?
If you’re a writer, when do you plan to carve out time for your projects?
Finally, if you stream any shows that you LOVE, please, for the love of all things holy, let me know what they are!
Wishing you all the best, and stay tuned for lots of more good news.
I promise, it’s epic!
Sincerely,
Christine
Christine Wolf is the co-author of Politics, Partnerships, & Power: The Lives of Ralph E. and Marguerite Stitt Church (Master Wings Publishing, December 2023). She’s a memoir coach and founder of Writers’ Haven Evanston, a workspace for women writers. If you’re still reading this, she’d like you to know that, despite losing her uvula at the age of 5 in a tonsillectomy gone awry, she’s doing just fine.
This----
No matter how I feel, I always ask myself:
Can I be brave today and offer something deeply personal that might help someone feel less overwhelmed?
Is there something I’ve learned that might help someone?
How can I validate someone who may share these feelings?
This is also what I (try to remember to) ask myself. Such a beautiful way to approach writing what might otherwise feel too vulnerable: through connection with others. Thank you for this post.
I hope you feel better!