Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Have Laptop, Will Travel

At right, from left are my three charges: Ruby, Nut-Nut, and Cooper. They didn't pose for this picture, I just happened to capture them sunning themselves.

A great thing about the way I make my living is that, for the most part, I can earn money anywhere there is a laptop, electricity, and Internet access. This is why house- and pet-sitting is such a natural fit with the writing life. Along with a toothbrush, pajamas, and clean underwear, I pack my ransom note-like stash of to-do lists, stories to pitch, endings to works in progress, and whatever other good intentions are lolling around on my desk. Being holed away is a wonderful opportunity to get some work done.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Role Playing

The role of politician's wife is a new one for me. In November's election, my husband won a seat on the board of directors for the Carpinteria Valley Water District. The term "politician's wife" may be a bit overboard, as Alonzo is definitely more the public servant type than the politician type. Well, maybe "elected official" is the best term. He worked really hard, stuck his neck out, and really strayed from his comfort zone. I really admire him. The other day I was thinking how he has inspired me. Not in the theme-from-Rocky-playing-in-my-head-and-I-have-shivers-down-my-spine inspiration, but more have-the-faith-to-keep-putting-one-foot-in-front-of-the-other-even-when-it-doesn't-seem-like-it-will-matter type of inspiration.

Left, recently elected Director Alonzo Orozco (that's my husband!) of the Carpinteria Valley Water District.

I can tell the inspiration has moved me to action. I'm writing in my blog ... something I think I'll be a bit more regular about.

Monday, November 8, 2010

The Sweet Spot


While working on my last big project I developed a theory. Here it is: The Sweet Spot, or the best part, of work is the period in between finding out you landed the job/project and starting it. Don't you agree? The euphoria of having something lined up and some free time before you actually have to do anything is wonderful. Too bad we can't recall that feeling at will.


The Sweet Spot Theory applies to bank accounts, too. I love it when I make a hefty deposit and have a balance to be proud of for more than a few hours before all the debits sift out at 12:01 a.m. I know I'm fooling myself, in fact, that is the point -- to have a few hours of feeling good and not worrying.


My last big project? On Oct. 27 I turned in the manuscript for a guidebook on Solvang, the Danish Capital of America. That's why I have a picture of a windmill on my post. I'll keep you posted on the process of the book. It is due out in early 2011.