A day in the life of a writer isn’t what you probably imagine. Most people think we’re banging on the keys, making public appearances, book signings and standing next to our desk with our arms crossed over our chest, wearing a fashionable,
but sensible outfit. The other possibilities range from leaning against a fence wearing a cowboy hat, or standing in front of some European landmark as if we’re waiting on 007 to show up. This poster represents the impression people think I do.
Some of those images could be true. Chances are the author has bed hair, holding a cup of coffee with both hands, and stares at the computer screen waiting for their muse to kick in. (Why do you think we drink so much coffee?) Authors don’t always sit at a mahogany desk in a Pinterest inspired office creating the next New York Times Best Selling Novel. There’s a pretty good chance they’re at the kitchen table, coffee shop, a recliner or stretched out on the couch with a PC in their lap. We’re all different. 
Many of you have been curious as to where and how I write my novels, short stories and market my work. Since I’m a full-time author, I can pick and choose when and where I write. Having said that it took me a while to find my groove. Here is how my day starts and why I do it this way.
Early Morning: I usually get up between 6:00-6:30. I do all the things I’d do if I were going to a job, because honestly, I’ve made this writing life my job. I put my makeup on, do my hair, get dressed as if I might go out. Not fussy. Not business casual. Just comfortable and nice. I even wear jewelry. Why do I go to the trouble? It sends a signal to my brain I’m ready to go to work. Lucky for me the commute isn’t that far.
The next thing I do is put the tea kettle on to prepare my specialty blend call Ganoderma Coffee. While that is heating up, I use some weights, a few counter pushups, and leg exercises. Some mornings I go for a walk before putting on the kettle; depends on the weather. I also enjoy having that first cup of coffee on my patio and toast or a bagel is involved. Then I transition to my office. I do take time to do a daily devotion for inspiration followed by checking my social media links. This all happens from about 6:30-7:30. Several days a week a friend may call or I take care of business then it’s time to write.
Often times I write for a couple of hours then take a break. That break usually involves doing a load of laundry, making the bed, making more coffee. Then it’s back to work. Lunch is somewhere between noon and one. During that time, I also take out what I will cook for dinner if it needs thawing. I usually fix enough and freeze for those days when I work nonstop. I do write again after lunch and sometimes that is until three when I take another break. I will rest a bit, finish a chore or research. Then write again until five when I fix dinner and watch the news. By seven I usually put the computer away and watch TV or read. I try to get to bed by 10:30 unless I’m binge watching a favorite series. Just so you know—my characters often keep me awake. 
There are other things I do as a writer when I leave my imaginary world. Some of those things are going to writing conferences, book signings, speaking engagements, and teaching writing classes to community groups. All those things require work such as creating powerpoints, handouts, swag and practice my presentations. Some years I manage to get three books out in a year for my readers. Other years, like this one, I’m lucky if I publish one. Some books just take longer and require more attention. You might be surprised to know that I write seven days a week.
My office is my safe place to write and be inspired. I have my books, music, pictures, travel memorabilia, and comfy recliner I like to work from. Yes, I have a desk and use it often, but most of my fast-paced fiction I write sitting in that chair. The desk is used for planning, research, scheduling and other business chores.
My grandchildren love coming in my office early in the morning when they visit. It’s become a ritual full of memories, giggles, songs and storytelling. They have transitioned from toys to crafts on my office floor or trying out dance routines and playing games with their cousins. Apparently, it’s a magical place not just for me, but for all those budding creative souls that make my world happy.
Being a full-time writer is a dream come true for me. I hope you’ll try out some of my books and
travel new places to enjoy exciting adventures. Next year there will be more books with twists and turns you didn’t expect. I hope you’ll like and follow me on Instagram and Twitter. I’m also on WhatsApp. I will soon have a revamped newsletter for you and of course, sign up here if you’d like to get blog posts.
