a place to work

from my may 2022 newsletter, originally subtitled “creative spaces on the road”

I made it to California. For a week I slept, walked, ate and generally avoided any kind of to-do list. I collaged on the deck in the morning and folded Keep Writing cards on a clipboard on my lap. Then I discovered a desk in the bookcase in my room. 

I am staying with friends in Oakland who are allowing me to take over their spare/living room.  I brought lots of projects with me but when I arrived I rested.  Until I discovered the desk. I am a person who likes routine. I have a morning routine, ever changing with seasons and need, but generally the same:

Wake. Move. Drink tea. Write. 

Allow time to clear away the night thoughts and welcome the day.

I recently tried writing morning pages. I gave away my copy of the Artist's' Way years ago to someone whose name I've forgotten.  But I've been trying to return to writing regularly and this seemed like a thing writers do. For a month I woke and filled three pages with thoughts. Dreams, tangents, frustrations.  I persisted. But instead of clearing my mind, it stirred up my anxiety,  So I stopped. A month later, I realized that the observation-a-day journal I've been keeping has become a brief bit of poetry.  

Which is to say there are many methods to focus creativity. Different people may need different ways to work at any time. Your creative approach may evolve. Or change all together.

This week I realized I like a desk space.  A place to hold my tools and a dedicated surface to work on.  This fold out desk is perfect, hiding my jumble of mail and collage to-go box.  And I build a little altar on top with crystals I carried with me, a piece of art I recently traded with a friend and a flower and vase borrowed from my host.  

Now my mornings here are still slow, but I sit and write and dream up new classes. I've got one coming for you but not yet. I love this little work desk but also there is this to enjoy.

ps if you like ramblings like this AND want to hear about classes as I offer them, become a member of the First of the Month Club—my monthly email newsletter!