We all know that it’s a good idea to step away from the computer sometimes. But it’s so tempting when it’s right there, isn’t it? Especially when you’ve gotten in the habit of writing or revising every day, or when an agent might be tweeting something relevant. *coughs*
A couple of weeks ago, I decided I needed to physically step away (farther than across the room from my dear, darling laptop). Luckily for me, the timing was perfect to drive out to Wisconsin with my four-year-old twins to visit family, so we got the little Scion xA all gassed up and ready to go.
One of the best things about a road trip? Road trip food that’s different from what we get at home:
The trip couldn’t have been better. Not just the visit with family, which is always fun and doesn’t happen often enough, but the open road, the freedom, the time to think. (Yes, one can even think with two preschoolers in the back of a Very Small Car, having provided them with books, favorite stuffed animals, and the music of their choice.)
Of course I brought my laptop along (duh), but I used it sparingly. Instead, I read books (when not driving), scribbled outline notes on my next WIP in my notebook, and listened to my own music when it was my turn: Beethoven, Sigur Rós, Utada Hiraku. So peaceful, so free!
Now that I’m back, I’m digging back into drafting, but it sure seems like fun again after stepping away. Highly recommended!
Sounds awesome! With an empty summer vacation just a week away, this sounds like just what I need to re-energize myself.
Yes, there’s nothing like stepping away – really stepping away – to give you fresh insight and creative pulse when you return. Yay for road trips!
I have vowed to step away this summer, because sometimes it’s *just the thing needed.* I love your donut photo- it wasn’t part of my plan, but you gave me an idea…
I’m glad you had a great trip! I need to start planning my summer road trip now before I get sucked into working the whoooooole sunshine-y weather away 🙂
Hmmm road tripping food is so YUMMY…and I loved just gazing outside of the car window, so beautiful! Glad you had a good time!
Welcome back! And good luck getting back to writing. I hope you are inspired and ready to pound out some words. 🙂
Thanks, everyone! Now that I’m back to drafting, I’m so glad to be back but it was awesome to get away. 🙂
Do you have a secret eye looking through my web cam? The complete first paragraph sounds like I could have confessed it myself. Word for word. Cough included.
Fine! I’ll take the prescription, doc. A road trip it is.
LOL, do it, do it!