Jessie: Back in NH after a wonderful time at Bouchercon in MN!
As I believe I have mentioned on the blog recently, I have had a few deadlines stacking up over the last few months and as a result, there any number of things in my life that have fallen by the wayside. For instance, I usually visit my hairdresser every 6-7 weeks. Instead, twice that long had elapsed. When my kids are home I make meals to keep everyone nourished and cheerful. Lately, I’ve suggested takeout or popcorn on the regular. I would be uncomfortable if you asked me about the state of my email inbox or even my physical post office box.
It isn’t just chores and daily maintenance that is neglected when deadlines loom though. The fun stuff, the fill-the-well stuff languishes too. My fountain pens all need filling. I have a pair of socks on the needles that simply haven’t come any closer to being ready to wear. The same partially completed painting has sat on my easel in the kitchen, staring at me with a disappointed look as I wash up the dishes since sometime in May. There are three partially read novels next to my reading chair and another two my e-reader.
So, this week I plan to steep myself in fun. I wish to slip a new pair of wooly socks, fresh from my knitting needles, onto my feet by Sunday night. I want to finish reading at least one of the books. I plan to fill all of my pens with juicy, colorful inks and look forward to doodling with each of them. If all goes well, I may even add a layer or two to that recriminating oil painting! If I am really lucky, my well will be filled to the brim before long and before long I will be itching to start on my next novel!
Readers, do you find that things, fun and necessary fall to the wayside when obligations loom? Writers, do you need a bit of a break between writing projects or do you jump right on to the next one without pause?