Today I carved out a little office for myself. I have had one in the past, but over the last several months, I’ve spent 100% of my work time sitting in a big wingback chair in my den. That’s so I could see students, who could settle on the couch across from me during our sessions. This is still the location of my student work, but I am hopeful to return to my own writing beginning this week so I need a spot where I can settle in. I have music, a good lamp, clean surfaces and my favorite books nearby. That’s about all I need, oh, and a comfortable chair. Yes, that’s fairly critical too. The music, good light and a spot that is just MINE are the primary criteria, however. Alas, I am now sitting listening to the radio – KCRW – and feeling good about whittling out my space. Ray was very helpful. He came right in and moved things that were in my way, found a good radio/CD player and even suggested the lamp. He’s good about that sort of thing and I appreciate his positive attitude very much. Now I am sitting in my little spot, writing. That was the point, after all.
While getting organized, I sorted through at least the first of my books and actually felt all right about parting with a few. I am not usually inclined to let favorite books leave my surrounds, but these fell in the “I could find this in the library if I really wanted to see it again,” category. That is not the case with all my John Rechy books since he was my writing mentor or a whole slew of classics that just bring me comfort to have near me. Yes, books feel like old friends whose proximity helps me to breathe better. I have a Kindle and I do read from it, but having books with real pages in them nearby unkinks my neck muscles and helps my to feel connected to a bigger world out there, even if I’m holed up in a small office.
Tomorrow, I meet with my writing friend to outline my writing goals for 2017. After that, Ray and I will head over to Train Town for a rendezvous with daughter Sarah and two favorite little people, who will be returning home with us for an overnight stay. While I enjoyed my time in Salt Lake City, I would not be completely truthful if I didn’t admit that I started feeling a bit homesick for my little ones while there. Nothing like Grandma time with a 3 1/2 and a 1 year old. Ray and I are already excited.
On that note, I am headed to bed. The only questionable decor choice in my new writing space is a mirror to my left right at eye-level. I have scared myself twice glancing over and seeing an extremely tired looking woman staring back. A combination of jet lag and book lugging.
I’ll check by in again tomorrow.
Here’s a view of my bookshelf filled with my old friends…
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