"Alone" Time

In order to really enjoy a dog, one doesn't merely try to train him to be semi human. The point of it is to open oneself to the possibility of becoming partly a dog. ~ Edward Hoagland

All that lovely alone time I used to have every morning? Gone, gone, gone... Dakota, oh darling puppy that she is, keeps me on my toes. I am unable to sit at the computer for more than a minute or two, have in fact gotten up THREE times while writing this paragraph, and I get very little accomplished during that time (number FOUR). It frustrates me to no end. I told DH, NO MORE PUPPIES EVER. Next time, it's a grown up dog, or no dog. I feel the same about kittens... (FIVE)

I did manage to finish the most recent round of edits on "A Change of Heart" yesterday, so that's something. I have all these ideas whacking me in my brain, and I can't find the time to write. I'm not a writer who can work in fits and starts. I need to be completely IN to the world I'm working with. So, distractions like puppies and children keep me from working.

Those writers who say they go to the local coffee house with their laptop and work amidst all the hustle and bustle? I envy them. I can't focus with any kind of distraction: people, music, TV, etc. I hear some writers talk about "soundtracks" for their books... not me. Nope. If the music has words, I can't write with it on. (SIX -- the dog is eating the couch).

I imagine that I'll regain this block of time in the mornings at some point, but for now... I'll have to manage. Dakota certainly didn't ask to come here, though she has no idea how good she's got it. I just don't understand, however, why I can surround her with toys, and she still wants to play with my slippers (or the cat... which is another story altogether). Or why the two tennis balls already out aren't the right ones, she needs the one that is stuck under the sofa (SEVEN).

==============================



Wild holiday parties? Not your thing. Since your home is such a tasty place (nonpareils, gumdrops, and licorice are very welcoming), you'd rather hang out there with a small group of invited guests. The holidays are a lot of work for you, but it all feels worth it when everyone compliments your artful decorations and inspired seasonal soundtrack. You surround yourself with sweetness at home, so you don't feel the need to venture out -- you're happier in your own, carefully-constructed holiday surroundings.

Well, yes (EIGHT) I am a homebody.