My son was a senior in high school this year. I remember being packed into the field house when my daughter graduated, waving to her friends, hugging their parents. This was a very different world. I’m grateful they had a graduation at all. Many didn’t. But what a hard time for these kids. For the world. It’s hard not to worry.
Covid Entertainment at the Girard house
What are you doing to pass the nights at home? Here’s what we did:
Life at a distance
I’m missing hugs. Handshakes. A pat on the shoulder. A hand squeeze. The feeling of someone brushing past. Sitting side by side, shoulder to shoulder. Locking elbows. Holding hands. I am grateful. I’m also lonely. Who knew those one-off touches could be so important?
Reading the reactions
One of my favorite games is to watch people who are out of earshot and try to identify what kind of conversation they’re having, based on their expressions. This can get me in trouble with whomever I’m dining with, but it’s hugely useful in writing. These days, when I go out, people’s faces are half-covered by masks. I miss people-watching. So now I’m trying to decide what my dogs are thinking…. maybe I’ll write a dog book next. Or maybe not.
Tricking my writing brain into action
For me, the hardest part of writing is the idea generation. Not just the plot, which usually comes in consistent fits and starts. It’s the characters that I need, along with the initial premise, to really get going. It would make sense that the voices would come when I’m at the computer, focused on the book. Instead, they’re often obstinately silent in those moments. Lately, I’ve found that the characters come out to talk when I’m working on some other project, something that engages my mind but in a different way. The characters of my new book, Far Gone, seem to like puzzles. So, puzzling it is…
Treating yourself in Quarantine
I will admit, this isn’t the healthiest diet, but this quarantine thing has really turned me upside down. A weird thing for someone who normally spends most days alone in the basement (by choice). But, forced isolation from friends and forced togetherness with family… well, that’s a whole different thing.
Soaking in the sun
Nothing like sitting in the sun with a good book. And this one is wonderful. If you haven’t read Angie Thomas, you really should.
The new world we live in....
We got out of town, leaving behind the cold temps for a week in warm Arizona. It’s a heavenly migration we do every year… only this year is a little different. COVID-19 has just arrived and we’re going to the store only when it’s necessary, wearing a mask and having dinners delivered by Uber Eats instead of going out. It isn’t that we hoped for… but we’re happy.
And the bad jokes are already starting. What goes with Corona? Nachos! Be safe and be well!
Winter Wonderland...where the ideas come
I’m a big believer in getting outside. Don’t get me wrong, I love a couch and a good book as much as anyone, but when I’m struggling with a plot or a scene isn’t working out the way I’d intended, I know it’s time to get outside.
And these crisp, clear Montana winter days are wonderful for helping me clear my head and find my way in a book. These two sweet girls, Lucy and Scotia, help a ton, too!