My slipshod analysis indicates that pleasurable pastimes make up a small percentage of any given 24-hour period. No complaints, because I’m in the driver’s seat for navigating each day. So, whether or not I detour off the beaten path is up to me—if not entirely.

For instance, last week I had devoted a chunky percentage of time in finding a new hair salon for my mother because the one she frequented closed. All of my criteria had to be met: location, accessible parking, and reasonable pricing. Having narrowed it down to four, I left a voicemail at each prospective salon. None of the proprietors returned my call. Two days later, I took a stab at speaking to a live person at one of the aforementioned places. Luckily, I connected and negotiated a day and time which fit the parameters of my mother’s schedule at her place of residence.

Now, writing:

Technically, one of my pleasurable pastimes. But, not really. More like, a sacred rite of passage. The true-to-life subject matter of my “lit with grit” often exacts an emotional toll. Then, there’s the writing process itself of fine tuning the imagery and technicalities in each scene because the bell tolls for the reader I want to connect with. Having tweaked Chapter 7 of my Contemporary work in progress to my utter satisfaction (1468 words), I’m creating more emotional turmoil in Chapter 8 (thus far: 483 words).

As for my pleasurable pastime of foraging for beach glass, I’ve got my eye on the weather and I’m keeping abreast of the local tide before making my getaway.

*However we divide the time of day, let’s make each percentage of it count.

My sincere appreciation if you’ve read this far.

Eva’s Authors Den Page: https://tinyurl.com/yycm7d2w