Letting Go

As a writer, it’s hard for me to let go of writing. Even for a little while. I’ve been writing consistently for the past five years. I always have my writing tools with me: my Freewrite electronic typewriter (If you are a writer, I highly recommend getting one!), my lap desk, my computer. Whether writing in my journal, creating short stories, essays, or my novel, I’m consumed with my writing life.

The Writing Life

A medical event in January forced me to pause (read my January blog for more details). My mind was preoccupied with my health rather than plots and red herrings. For weeks, I simply couldn’t focus on writing.

I knew I needed a break. A good break. But before I could take that break, I was back at work, spending the first half of February wrapping up the second draft of my novel The Con. Then I flew to the Florida Keys to meet up with my husband and mini poodle Kip, who had taken our Airstream down to Florida a month before.

February Sunrise, Sugarloaf Key

For first time in years, I didn’t use my time in the Keys to work on writing every single day. I exhaled. Took Kip for walks. Lazed by the pool, relaxed on the beach, played cribbage at night. Shopped at an outdoor market in Key West and dined at wonderful restaurants. Enjoyed sunrises. Spent time with family. Stayed present and happy.

Letting go and truly resting and taking a break will be a priority for me moving forward. What are you letting go of?