These days it's so easy to fall into the trap of worry in this sixth, seventh, or eighth week of sheltering in (depends on when you started). So this scripture reminds me that everything passes, even winter and COVID 19!
One worry for me has been that I can't focus! I actually can focus, but not on what I want to. I've written umpteen blog posts, created a PowerPoint for staff development, did a video on silver linings to the COVID 19 sheltering-in, another video for Family Fiction reading the prologue to Standoff, made masks, worked in the yard, cleaned the house, and cooked, but until Friday not one usable word for the book I should be working on. But at least Friday, I did write a beginning paragraph I'm decently happy with. And had more revelation on how the story will go.
Are you having a problem focusing? But it hasn't been all bad. At least I've had time to learn how to draw animals using the alphabet, and I can't draw! Doing something with my hands besides typing really helps to center my mind. Meet Larry:
He doesn't look much like the dinosaur he's supposed to me, more like a hippo. lol. But he was fun to draw. You can find directions on the internet--just put drawing using the alphabet into a search engine and you'll get plenty of tutorials!
Another thing I've been doing is a LOT of Zoom. If you haven't tried this app, you might want to give it a try. I use it to brainstorm with other authors, and we even have a Zoom Pilates class three times a week. It's really simple to do and you can even record your sessions. That way if you're brainstorming, you have something to go back and look at and listen to after you've forgotten what was said...anyone else with that problem?
So now you know what I've been doing. How about you? How have you passed the time? Leave a comment and I'll enter you in a drawing for the subject of another blog post--a handmade porcelain cross from my pottery room.
And be sure to join us Friday when Nancy Mehl interviews me about my latest book, Standoff! I'll be giving away a copy of the book, too!
reading
ReplyDeletebn100candg at hotmail dot com
I wish I had time to read! Thanks for stopping by.
ReplyDeleteDoing more things with the kids, cleaning house and of course finding some time to read and relax
ReplyDeletePatrica, if you get a chance, draw alphabet animals! Thanks for stopping by!
DeleteWe are baking a lot! We’ve made two different kinds of bread, 2 batches of cookies, cinnamon bread, 3 batches of brownies and muffins. And we walk, LOL. At least some of us do.
ReplyDeleteperrianne (DOT) askew (At) me (DOT) com
Perrianne Askew
Perrianne, I'm baking rolls this weekend. Finally found yeast. There hasn't been any yeast in Corinth since before Easter. lol
DeleteI've been playing a lot of card games on my computer...Solitaire, Free Cell, Tri-Peaks, Spider & Pyramid. Weather hasn't been cooperating to read on the deck. Thank you for sharing a chance to win that beautiful cross necklace. Stay safe! rw620 AT aol DOT com
ReplyDeleteThis post may show up twice since I answered it earlier...
DeleteI get you on the weather, Robin since it's been raining every other day in Mississippi until this week. It's been ages since I played Free Cell!
I’ve been doing lots of reading, knitting, puzzles and games on my iPad. I have baked more, perhaps because I am not home alone, or perhaps because I am finally feeling settled here in Florida. I love the cross! What a wonderful gift to giveaway.
ReplyDeletebettimace at gmail dot com
I really enjoy working with clay, Betti. And I need to get back to knitting! And I'm making rolls this weekend (at least that's the plan tonight. lol)
DeleteLove the cross necklace. Pretty much keep busy sewing and doing book reviews. Time to reflect on God. But mainly God has given me peace about this virus. I have no fear. joeym11atfrontierdotcom
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Diana
It seems the virus has played second fiddle to a couple of other problems I've encountered. But God will see me through, Diana!
DeleteSame here! I'm having a horrible time doing what I'm supposed to be doing, but lots of random, unrelated things are getting crossed of my list.
ReplyDeleteThe necklace is pretty! Pottery class sounds fun.
I love doing pottery and making jewelry. I'ill blog about it later, Amy. Been thinking about a story featuring a potter...
DeleteI reading through my personal library and watching YouTube teachings from ministries I follow.
ReplyDeleteI'm looking forward to going to my Bible Study on Tuesday!
psalm103and138atgmaildotcom
I'll be glad when we're back in church, Caryl. I miss my church family! Although a bunch of them live on my street. lol
DeleteI've been helping my mom, who is sick. I've also enjoyed coloring and audiobooks. csilyd (at) gmail (dot) com
ReplyDeleteColoring is so restful, Lydia. The problem is getting me to sit still long enough to do it! :-)
DeleteI’ve been busy with my gardens, yard work, washing down siding, we built a new chicken coop, and on cool days scrapbooking, reading, cleaning house, etc
ReplyDeleteleliamae54(At)aol(dot)com
DeleteYou must live in the country, Lucy. I've been thinking I'd love to start a garden, but I really don't have a good place for one. And so far it's been too wet!
DeleteI've been doing a lot of cleaning that I've wanted to get done, like cleaning and organizing the shed, going through drawers and things like that. I've been making cards and reading.
ReplyDeleteduellonlysis at aol dot com
I had every intention of doing those things, Beverly, but so far I haven't cleaned out anything but my pottery room. And it needs a tad bit more before I can get in there and glaze pieces I've had made for 2 years now.
Deletezoom has been a life saver as a way of connecting with people. Yes, focusing is a huge issue. So far I have made my deadlines.
ReplyDeleteI love zoom--watch a class on it today and learned a few things I didn't know, Sharon. I have a self-imposed deadline of having a proposal ready by May 15, but it may have imploded yesterday...or maybe not. Just need to practice BIC!
DeleteI've been editing books, helping set up a virtual Christian editor's conference which was supposed to be live in a month, helping my elderly mom, handmaking birthday cards, and doing puzzles on my iPad late at night to unwind. Oh, and taking walks outside to clear my mind and get exercise.
ReplyDeleteYour cross is gorgeous! You made it? Stunning! If I don't win, can I buy one??
PatchesDanny (at) Yahoo (dot) com
The virtual editors Christian conference sounds interesting, Lora! Walking is a great way to clear your mind. I have several crosses made but I'd have to put make a bale, etc. Next day I have a few minutes I'll look through what I have and send you a photo. :-)
DeleteSheltering alone on our small farm in central MN, I'm very ready for spring to come, esp. after enjoying an early spring in MS. It has been a treat to enjoy birds, pheasants, and cranes here closely. As the weather permits, I'm in the 4-acre yard digging up tenacious Scottish thistles by the roots--the only method that really gets rid of them. And teaching online college classes and writing and JUST finished and loved your newest release, Standoff. VERY well-done!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Delores! Looking forward to your return to Mississippi!
DeleteReading, crocheting and recovering from an auto accident on 2/6. Lots of broken bones!
ReplyDeletetumcsec(at)gmail(dot)com
Gail, you're in my prayers! Hope you recover 100% soon!
DeleteAND THE WINNER OF THE NECKLACE IS...ROBIN IN NC!
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