Sandy Supposes....

Distractions are inevitable

         ESCAPING WRITING DISTRACTIONS?

         Most of my annoying writing distractions consist of the everyday minutiae of my life. Despite my intense immersion in all things writing I become hungry. This means I cannot ignore the insistent rumbles anymore. I must actually cook and eat some sort of sustenance. This in turn creates a mess that somebody, I mean me, must clean. In order to rummage up food, I must at some point and with some sort of regularity, depart my sanctuary and shop for groceries. During the shopping foray, I invariably meet someone and a conversation ensues. All of this takes valuable time. If I wish to live as a writer I must first take measures to live.

         At times when I've been forced out and about because of a nuisance medical emergency or an important meeting, I study my surroundings and the people I chance to notice. Fodder for my writing is abundant. Snippets of background radio reports, overheard whispers, chance discussions, muted television commentary, or magazine/newspaper tidbits pique my curiosity. Nothing is too random or banal. In my purse, there is a notebook and several pens, ready for my ideas.

         Travel is both satisfying and frustrating. Exploring new terrain, befriending fascinating people, and dallying in different experiences, leaves precious little time to put pen to paper. I rely upon my memory and commit to scribbling in my journal before retiring to bed. Snapping photos with a digital camera also aids my creative endeavours.

         My family can be quite distracting, but time with them is time well spent and treasured. They provide me with a much needed recess. With them I relax and laugh. Their antics and misadventures sometimes serve as rich fuel for my writing "fire".

         Reading and television viewing can be magnetic distractions for me. Both are decadent indulgences captivating me with irresistible stories. Escapism prevails. To fight is futile and so, I capitulate. I limit my television exposure. I've always been a quick , keen reader.

         As I've inevitably aged, I've developed a touch of insomnia, but this has become a blessing. More of my time has been freed to spend as I wish. Without worries about missed slumber, my mind prefers to pursue writing. Escape is always a moment away in my imagination.