Spring Fever Writing Blues

We had a rough winter in our area this year. Lot's of snow that caused our school systems to extend the school year through to the first weeks of June. And it was cold! I can't even speak of how much our heating bills were. Spring is here now with sunny days, green foliage and colorful blooms, and the itch to get outdoors and enjoy it all. That's just what I've been doing, along with enjoying a new baby in the family, and taking a couple of much needed getaways. I've got lettuce started in the raised garden bed, and my flower beds are weeded and ready for new plantings. I adore to be outside. But then I start feeling guilty because I haven't done much writing.

The warm months always seem to draw me away from my writing. Not totally, mind you, but I end up playing hooky from the keyboard and characters to play outside too much. I know I need to work harder at finding a balance. I've tried being outside while it's sunny, and intend on coming in to sit down in front of the computer to write after dusk. So many times I'm so tired from the days activities that my creative energy is spent, and I end up in my recliner in front of the TV. When I end up pushing myself to get back to a story, it just doesn't flow the way it should. I know I can't do that. Spring fever doesn't last too long for me though, so I don't try to beat myself down over it. I've learned to give myself a little time to take a break, allow my mind to wander and explore new story ideas or replay various scenes I've already written and how to move forward as I'm enjoying my time outside.

My favorite time of day is evening twilight, and so many times I've gone back into the house to get a notebook and pencil. I come back outside to my patio table adorned with flickering candles and enjoy jotting down scenes, dialogue, and ideas. It recharges my creative juices. Maybe my spring fever isn't so hard on my writing after all.

Anna