SubscribeSusanne Elkins
writer
Recently, I found an old grocery list that surprised me for a couple of reasons. One, the list was devoid of peanut butter, toilet paper and paper towel. I can’t remember the last time I went to the grocery store and did not purchase one of those three items.
Second, and more importantly, on the back I had scratched a few goals for myself. These were long-term goals that I expected to take years to accomplish, so I find it strange that I would simply scratch them out on the back of a random list like this one. But, there they were:
Learn to cook like a gourmet chef
Learn to knit a sweater or something
Get something published
Let’s just say I’m still working on the first two. But that third one? That third one, I crossed right off the list. I accomplished that (somewhat vague, but still worthy) goal about two years ago. I think it’s about time to scratch out a new list, yes? Hmmkay.
The kids love bowling, but we’ve been playing the Wii all winter, so they were a little out of sorts today when we ACTUALLY took them bowling. Wixie wanted to know why he wasn’t getting strikes every five seconds, and why that ball is so dang heavy.
This morning I read Judith Warner’s essay on coffee and it had me crying into my own mug. I’m only a coffee drinker because my mom convinced me to try it when I couldn’t get myself to an 8am math class in college. I ended up failing the class anyway because I spent the first half of the semester dashing out of the lecture hall to make it to the bathroom in time. Quite a laxative, that caffeine.
Mom refused to let me try it with milk or sugar. “Just get used to it black – there’s no reason to add the extra calories,” she said. And just like always – she was right. Read the article – it’s beautifully written and will probably bring back some memories for you too.
Here’s the link
You know how a lot of people say they are their most creative when in the shower? The shower works for me too, but I notice my best ideas come through when I’m rocking wixie at night or singing to sis. I usually start off thinking how awesome the kids are and how much I love this quiet time with them. Then as they drift off, my mind wanders and I practically have an essay written in my head before it’s time to tip toe out of their room. Problem is, I usually lose it all when I come downstairs to do the dishes, make lunches, or just veg in front of the tv. I realized last night that this quiet time is the ONLY time I give myself to just be. Perhaps I can recreate this feeling? Or, maybe I should make my writing time coincide with the kids’ bedtime. I’m going to try and write for a half hour right after the kids go to sleep. We’ll see how it goes. What works for you? Have you noticed a time of day when you think your best thoughts?
Pics coming soon – as soon as I remember how to upload them.
