Writer’s Shop Talk: Not Quite Back in the Swing of Things….

Early Afternoon, Wednesday, October 30, 2024, Miami, Florida

Greetings, Constant Readers.

Today greets me with a steamy, drizzly embrace here in the vibrant heart of Miami. As I shuffle into my third working day this week, the mercury reads 83°F (29°C) beneath a partly sunny sky. A brisk breeze from the east-northeast rushes past at 19 MPH (30 Km/H), while the humidity hugs tightly at 66%, making it feel like a balmy 87°F (32°C). Mother Nature has sprinkled scattered light rain showers on the forecast for this afternoon, peaking with a high of 84°F (29°C).

As you might have surmised, I am woefully behind schedule today—a far cry from the disciplined routine I carved out in Tampa Bay and upheld in Madison. It seems that shaking off the fatigue of my epic road trip from New Hampshire to South Florida is taking longer than expected. Coupled with the adventure of re-adjusting to life within the familial fold after months of near-solitude, it’s no wonder I’m struggling to find my groove. In Carroll County—affectionately dubbed “Almost Maine”—interaction was a rarity, unlike now where family life beckons daily.

My goal remains to adhere to my customary novel-writing timetable. As I pen this during what used to be my midday break for lunch and cerebral rejuvenation, I must keep things brief. Suffice to say, transitioning from the rugged terrain of New England to the flat expanse of Miami feels strange. Not that I’ve had much opportunity for outdoor strolls here—I’m still recuperating from the longest drive of my life.

With the clock inching past 1:30 PM, I’ve decided to dive back into my novel at 3 PM instead of 2. Writing may elude me today, but I plan to revisit the last two chapters I conjured up north, hoping they spark some creative synapses.

And so, fair readers, I bid you adieu until next time. Ciao!