Hi, everybody! I realize that I've kind of disappeared, which in what can happen when real life takes over. In fact, all of my writing has taken a back seat to the day-to-day realities of responsibilities.
When I say all of that writing, I'm referring to the four author names I write under for vastly different content and audiences. Some of that is marketing. People like to expect certain type of content from their creators. It provides solace and comfort to them. Some of it is to avoid the "holier than thou" crowd, and the overtly judgmental.
Some of that time consumption is wrapped around the extensive seven month renovation of my primary residence, which required me to move out. Luckily, I found a place only 14 miles away in a neighborhood I adore, so that part has worked out fine. It this town, that distance can take 20 to 70 minutes to commute through, meaning I have to be strategic about when I oversee construction activity, or race to the site because the builder has not followed the drawings and replacement materials take 7 weeks to get.
The silver lining to this temporary home is that it puts me closer to the hiking trail restoration and repair I do weekly, so there's that. And it doesn't have much impact on my drive times to sporting locations I work at.
And luckily, my caregiving responsibilities have become more predictable. As those of you know who do that, things can go haywire at any moment.
Which doesn't leave much time for writing, or finding the mindset to write from. The sparks still fly. I still come up with loads of ideas. Many are captured with the intention of writing in voice-to-text memos, but most are not ignited by the dim-flamed, creative spark and wither away.
Which has me looking forward. Looking to move back into a revitalized home, which includes a dedicated space to create from. Fervently stoking the creative fire in me. Reconnecting with neighbors and friend who are just a bit too far right now. Having time for it all once more. And to be back in my favorite creative space, my kitchen, creating recipes and sharing them with those who subject themselves to "What the heck is THAT?!"
Onward.