Annjanette Fortier, Assistant Manager of Housekeeping at RiverWoods Exeter, is known for ensuring our apartments are spotless and coordinating a complex cleaning schedule. However, she is also a dedicated writer.
Annjanette began writing at age 13, with her first story, “Toby Meets the Aliens,” receiving praise from a teacher. Encouraged, she continued writing in journals throughout her adolescence, though she struggled with confidence and the feeling that her work was incomplete.
Annjanette pursued her passion by enrolling in Southern New Hampshire University, where she majored in English and Creative Writing and completed her Bachelor’s degree. After a brief break, she began a Master’s Program, which she expects to complete in three years. She believes that further education will enhance her writing skills, just as reading avidly helps her understand different writing styles. Currently, she is working on a 2500-word short story for class.
One of Annjanette’s writing habits is carrying a notebook everywhere to jot down observations that might inspire future writing. Even while fishing on the lake with her husband, she takes notes on her surroundings. Her dream is to get into publishing and editing, which she hopes will allow her to earn additional income and have more time to write. She participates in a book discussion group, enjoying books that expand her understanding of different writing styles.
For Annjanette, writing is about creating something from nothing and finds satisfaction in writing from the heart. Her advice to aspiring writers is to “write for yourself” and understand that “baby steps are O.K.” She emphasizes the importance of having the courage to share one’s work, despite the challenges of writing from the heart and soul.
About Humans of RiverWoods
Humans of RiverWoods is an ongoing storytelling series that celebrates the vibrant, diverse, and inspiring individuals who make up our RiverWoods communities. Through candid interviews and personal snapshots, we share the everyday moments, meaningful experiences, and unique journeys of our residents and team members.