Work Place Blog Hop

I’ve been asked to participate in a work place blog hop by our friend, John W. Howell. I know many of you already know him and find as much delight in his creative ways as I do. Have you purchased Johnny’s novel My GRL yet? You should, if you’re a crime fiction fan of any sort. He’s on my TBR list, but I fear he’s beginning to question the truth behind that admission. I adore his short stories and weekly haiku, as well. He has the best sense of humor and often brightens my day so stop by and say hi, if you can. This hop was created to showcase a writer’s writing space. You can read his post here.

Please excuse the photos, I couldn’t be bothered waiting for the sun to go down. I don’t want to keep John waiting any longer. I’ve missed out on a lot being gone a few days. Thanks for asking me to add my space and for being patient with me, John.

Welcome to my work space:

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Work Place when somewhat tidy.

My desk is found in the corner of two white walls, as white calms my thoughts. Everywhere else, I have loads of color, believe it or not. Do you see my gorgeous brown Gnome with red sunglasses and orange cone hat? He’s been through a lot, but still keeps me company. I’m pretty sure he used to play a lot of jazz. Bass, hopefully. My Kansas State University mug reminds me that I once partied, a lot. A mirror to remind me that I’m not perfect. For me, headphones are a must, as some of you already know. This apple computer station keeps my music running, internet feeding and allows for a large screen on days when I need to properly watch a blog video, like Duke’s weekly Ripping Movie Reviews.

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Maxine and Dotzie

This is the corner behind the desk. When I can, I love to keep the blinds and windows open for clean air and light, but it didn’t work when I tried to take a picture earlier. Apparently, there’s too much light to be had during the afternoon at this angle. Anyway, this is the growing station for two of my most beloved plants. The bigger lily is named Dotzie and the smaller one, Maxine. Dotzie is ten years old. Maxine is twenty-two years old. They were both given in condolence when grandmothers passed away. I keep them close, and only speak to them when I’m cleaning their leaves. They don’t mind being named after dead grandmothers. Both have been near death a few times, but somehow keep coming back. I was given Maxine at an age when nothing should have stayed alive in my care. Somehow, we both survived high school and then college.

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Staged messy desk… 😉

This is how my space looks most of the time. Well, when I have an opportunity to take over the space and stay awhile, that is. My phone, laptop, and Apple computer are all plugged in and being used in some fashion while in writing heaven. Okay, so a few more papers are generally being tossed around, but I tried to tidy up a bit.

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Sitting behind the wheel searching my mind for the perfect word.

In all honesty, when I’m posting a poem, this is what I’m looking at, if my poem is written in the morning. I have some time to listen to music while driving to work, then I take a moment to clear my thoughts before starting my day, which then produces a poem. Staring at this steering wheel might be a source of inspiration, but my guess is that the car’s seat holds me just right. Nothing better than being held just right, you know.

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Work Place most days…

During the school year I become super busy and miss a lot of opportunities to write at a normal desk. I’m often running from place to place, and usually arrive early, which allows for some typing on my Samsung Note while waiting in the car. I do my best to get my writing in every day, even if that means sitting in my car in a parking lot. Teachers wear many hats.

It’s a perfect day when I can write outside and enjoy a finishing view like this one.

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My evening view and sunset spot.

Now for my, as John says, Tagees:

Staci

Kate

Heather

Neha

Beth

Shari

Amy

Cleo

Morgan (Who, I know is currently on leave, but couldn’t leave her out ♡♡ Keeping she and her family in prayer.)

Driving Away (Haiku)

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Vacation over
Writing emotions, draining
The grass is greener

*****
I cannot believe my vacation and five weeks back home are finished already. They flew past me in a gust of regret, it seems. I mean this in the most positive of way, of course.

Left wishing I’d taken more time and less time, as well. Regretting that I did too much, yet too little, of everything.
Left words unsaid, and said words I shouldn’t have allowed out of my mouth. Basically, I lived, as we all do, wishing I’d tried differently without changing a thing.

I love my family, my hometown, my memories new and old, the best of new opportunities, and the thrill of this adventure. My hope for this trip was to come to terms with yesterday’s regret. I’m sure I didn’t do that, however, I found peace in knowing I never will.

Sadly, I leave Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado, and Oklahoma a different woman, yet again. Tomorrow I’ll drive the large state of Texas from top to bottom and then I’ll rest. Wave, if you see a white Dodge Charger. It’ll be me. The tired lady who stayed in the Midwest a bit too long, but even now resists the urge to turn her car back around.

Oh, Yeah!

I saw you first
Yeah, you were there
All powerful
Demanding
Amongst the rest of your crew
Looking all cool and fascinating
Yes, you!
I felt nothing but intrigue
You were all my eyes could see

I approached you hesitantly
You would be a lot for me
Just look at your surroundings
Yet, our eyes locked
Yours shining
Mine craving
Suddenly I felt free
Heart quickening
Soul waking up
Life as we knew it – over
The submitting would take two

I asked for a moment from you
An agreement was made
We’d go for a quick ride outside
Sliding in took little effort
I’d waited a long time
Wondering how fast you’d take me
A shy girl with a thrill for a fast ride
One push from me
Fire created suddenly

With permission granted
You carefully took me
All those places I’d been craving
I’m not surprised
You knew what you were doing
Owning me by the first curve
My release finally coming
After admitting
I could easily dominate you

I sit here now satisfied
You with that stupid grin
I can’t wait to show you off
Dodge Charger
You couldn’t be hotter
You and your new car smell
My tomorrow’s Show And Tell

I love my new car!!