I’m a little surprised by how much trouble I’m having writing at home. At home was clearly too distracting so today I tried writing in a student lounge at Clark College which was perfect. Nice open space with comfy couch. I intended to bring my camera but forgot so you get a photo of the cookies I made last weekend. Very few people. No Internet connection.
And still I had a hard time focusing. I made decent progress and did another 800 words tonight after dinner. I might get a draft finished by tomorrow. argh. It feels really half-assed right now.
I guess I felt like things were so busy at Clarion that it would be easier at home. But I took for granted that at CW 99% of my brain was devoted to all things story. And now that I’m home I have to devote at least half my brain to my other responsibilities. And even then I feel like my brain is ruined.
Before CW when I got those phone calls to remind me about appointments I always said, “I know, I’ll be there.” Since I got home I keep saying, “Shit, what time?” I usually feel like I have my act together and now I can barely remember where I parked my car.
Maybe this is all part of the process. But I’m pushing to write this new story and I’m not enjoying as much as I thought I would. I think I’m going to take one day next weekend for a no computer day and a no writing day. I just downloaded a bunch of stories to my iPod (EscapePod and PodCastle) and I can take some walks and putter in the yard. And make some pies. I haven’t had one single homemade pie yet this summer. Tragedy.
