Cara/Andrea here, This month is my turn to host our regular "Ask A Wench" feature. Now, as many readers are very curious about where writers meet with their Muse, I decided to answer that general query by showcasing where all of us write. (As we shared the photos on our private loop, they provoked much humorous debate on the virtues of Neat versus . . . um, Not So Neat.) So, here's a a peek at our private spaces (click on the images for a larger view). . .
Anne:
I write in several places — my office, my local library where I write by hand, and in bed sometimes. The main one is my cluttered (and messy) little office, lined with books — behind my computer you can see several shelves of some of my childhood books, including a shelf of Georgette Heyer novels. It started off as a temporary "bricks and planks" bookshelf of the kind I had in various student houses, and I intended to have proper shelves built, but the bricks and planks have been there for many years now.
Above the shelves are the various story collages I've done for my books, a bit like photos of old friends. There are also some "muse" kind of things — a little gemstone tree made by a friend, with lapis lazuli, amazonite and jasper "leaves," a little "writing altar" that dates from a course I did with Barbara Samuel, various crystals, a salt lamp and other bits and pieces. Really, it needs a good clear out.
Pat:
My official humdrum writing space is a desk buried in papers and surrounded by books, computers, and filing cabinets. It is seriously Not Pretty, just functional. But my real “writing” space is outdoors. When I’m working out plot, stuck in an intense scene, trying to spur my recalcitrant Muse, I go outside with pen and paper and occasionally, laptop. Usually, I chase the sun and have lounges and rocking chairs scattered all over the yard. But the loveliest, most convenient area is this one right outside my front door. Since our door doesn’t face the street, it’s a private, quiet haven. I can watch hummingbirds flit, admire whatever flowers are blooming, put my feet on the table (it’s stone, after all), and just let the creative juices flow.
Jo:
If possible, I only write in my writing room, in the set up I've had now for over ten years — moved to 4 houses so far — using my DOS computer that's had it's 20th anniversary. Resistant to change? Moi? In this case, yes. I have however, upgraded to a modern monitor, though it was tricky to get a square one. A rectangle just wouldn't have worked with my word processing program, XY Write.
Simply, I write best when I'm not distracted by change, updates and all that stuff. But clearly, I don't mind a fair amount of mess.
Mary Jo:
I'm very boring. I do not work in the garden or the coffee house or the library, or even the living room. I only work in my office. But there are two work zones. One is my desk, which currently looks like an explosion in the Library of Congress with papers all over and count them, not one but two foot high stacks of research books because the current book is a high research story.
The other work zone is a comfy yellow chair and ottoman in which I sit and draft story for 15 or 20 minutes at the time on my Dana, an electronic keyboard. No wifi, no email, no fancy formatting, just a straight shot at generating words which I then upload to the desktop and edit into place. This only works if I have some idea where I'm going, but it's useful at putting a lot of mental distractions out of the way. There are still physical distractions, of course. Note the cat. He likes lying on the desk by the keyboard, too. Though I like to think that he's channeling creativity from the astral plane, if the truth be known, mostly he's in the way. But charmingly so.
Susan:
My office is a back corner bedroom, a quiet spot that overlooks the yard. I have an oak desk along one wall that's very handsome but is just too big for me, so I use the smaller extension for most of my keyboard writing, and the other desk gets piled up with stacks of research stuff, notes, pens, files, lotion and phones and all the flotsam and jetsam that goes with marathon book writing. Two walls are lined with bookshelves, which several years back I painted white, and found that the whole room brightened up and the bookshelves seemed less oppressive (so then I went around painting all the bookcases in my house white, which really opened up the house!). The books on the office shelves are mostly research volumes collected over the years. Around the room, which doesn't show in this view, are favorite and special things, gifts and good luck charms, angels and crystals, stained glass lamps that give a lovely warm glow at night. Every now and then I rearrange the office furniture and redo the space, as I get a bit bored with the same old surroundings. For now I'm quite happy with my view of trees and a back hill–and gazing into the distance, they say, is very restful for computer-weary eyes.
I've taken over another guest bedroom as a reading and study room, with a comfortable chair where I read, take notes, scribble on paper or work on a laptop. It's lined with bookshelves too, and that room can get pretty wildly cluttered with the research du jour — but inevitably someone will stay the night and I'll have to clean up my writing mess. But the back office is all mine, where I can be as right-brained creative and cluttery as I like!
Joanna:
Welcome to my office. Whatcha got here is my old desk. My chair. A place to plug in the computer. A sweater to wrap up in when it gets chilly in the evening.
I used to have
the shelves in both of these bookcases crammed with books, but now I keep the main book collection on the other side of the room and use this side for just my reference texts and my office supplies. Keeps 'em right close to hand.
I am so glad to have this space to work in. I look out the window and see my hummingbirds and my goldfinches. My flowers in pots. Sometimes a rainbow.
Nicola:
Welcome to my new office. I've only been in here a couple of months. Previously I had a room upstairs with a view out across the village to the hills a few miles away. Now I have a view of the tree on the village green and the 17th century cottages beyond with their climbing roses. It’s lovely.
I haven’t quite settled in to my new space yet. There are three bookshelves that need sorting. The rest of my books are still in boxes or on bookcases upstairs. There’s a comfy armchair for reading in and a sofa beneath the window where Angus sleeps. In front of my desk I have a huge print of London as seen from the Memorial to the Great Fire. The original engraving was made in the 18th century and there is so much historical detail in it that it often distracts me from my writing!
Cara/Andrea
Okay, I’m going last since I put this post together . . . and I have to confess, after seeing all the other Wenchly work spaces, I am hugely embarrassed to post mine. It’s . . .way too neat! But I have an excuse. I moved not long ago, and many years of cheerful clutter (ie. Personality) got relegated to the dumpster. Plus loads of books and important papers are still in boxes, waiting for more bookshelves to be added. (What can I say—I am a slug.) Adding personality is a work in progress . . . in my defense, the photo doesn’t show the huge table on the right, with my printer, wi-fi stuff and PILES of books stacked l helter-pelter across the scuffed pine.
That said, I do like a fairly organized desk. I have a row of tattered paperback keepers in front of me (a close-up would show many Wench titles among them!) along with a drawing if a Regency-era gentleman done by a friend that makes me smile. The books have been liberated from the boxes included key research tomes, along with art and sentimental favorites—handmade books by my mother and my Maurice Sendak children’s books, with little drawings and notes to me on the flyleaves, are among my special treasures. (And my bear and fox hand puppets from childhood, which still make me smile.)
So what about you? I'm sure you all have a special place that is yours and yours alone. Do you favor neatness over cutter. And do you have a special treasure that makes you happy to look at? Please share!
It makes me happy to see so many paper books on your shelves. My mother and I seem to be in a competition to see who can collect the most antique and vintage books. That neither of us have space for them is another matter.
I do my best work when I’m alone – no distractions. It’s winter here, so recently that has meant I sit next to the fire at 3am, the fairy lights on in the lounge room, and know I can have hours without a single disturbance!
Nicola – if only I could have a view that included old buildings. We’re a little short on those in Aus!
It makes me happy to see so many paper books on your shelves. My mother and I seem to be in a competition to see who can collect the most antique and vintage books. That neither of us have space for them is another matter.
I do my best work when I’m alone – no distractions. It’s winter here, so recently that has meant I sit next to the fire at 3am, the fairy lights on in the lounge room, and know I can have hours without a single disturbance!
Nicola – if only I could have a view that included old buildings. We’re a little short on those in Aus!
It makes me happy to see so many paper books on your shelves. My mother and I seem to be in a competition to see who can collect the most antique and vintage books. That neither of us have space for them is another matter.
I do my best work when I’m alone – no distractions. It’s winter here, so recently that has meant I sit next to the fire at 3am, the fairy lights on in the lounge room, and know I can have hours without a single disturbance!
Nicola – if only I could have a view that included old buildings. We’re a little short on those in Aus!
It makes me happy to see so many paper books on your shelves. My mother and I seem to be in a competition to see who can collect the most antique and vintage books. That neither of us have space for them is another matter.
I do my best work when I’m alone – no distractions. It’s winter here, so recently that has meant I sit next to the fire at 3am, the fairy lights on in the lounge room, and know I can have hours without a single disturbance!
Nicola – if only I could have a view that included old buildings. We’re a little short on those in Aus!
It makes me happy to see so many paper books on your shelves. My mother and I seem to be in a competition to see who can collect the most antique and vintage books. That neither of us have space for them is another matter.
I do my best work when I’m alone – no distractions. It’s winter here, so recently that has meant I sit next to the fire at 3am, the fairy lights on in the lounge room, and know I can have hours without a single disturbance!
Nicola – if only I could have a view that included old buildings. We’re a little short on those in Aus!
Seeing paper books on the shelves is NEVER a problem with the Wenches, Sonya! My only trouble is that I still have so many of my books still in boxes as I figure out where to put more shelves.
I , too, am not one who can work with lots of distraction, so I like peace and quiet—maybe some classical or jazz playing softly. I often work until midnight, but 3 am is not a time my body or brain would be at its best!
Seeing paper books on the shelves is NEVER a problem with the Wenches, Sonya! My only trouble is that I still have so many of my books still in boxes as I figure out where to put more shelves.
I , too, am not one who can work with lots of distraction, so I like peace and quiet—maybe some classical or jazz playing softly. I often work until midnight, but 3 am is not a time my body or brain would be at its best!
Seeing paper books on the shelves is NEVER a problem with the Wenches, Sonya! My only trouble is that I still have so many of my books still in boxes as I figure out where to put more shelves.
I , too, am not one who can work with lots of distraction, so I like peace and quiet—maybe some classical or jazz playing softly. I often work until midnight, but 3 am is not a time my body or brain would be at its best!
Seeing paper books on the shelves is NEVER a problem with the Wenches, Sonya! My only trouble is that I still have so many of my books still in boxes as I figure out where to put more shelves.
I , too, am not one who can work with lots of distraction, so I like peace and quiet—maybe some classical or jazz playing softly. I often work until midnight, but 3 am is not a time my body or brain would be at its best!
Seeing paper books on the shelves is NEVER a problem with the Wenches, Sonya! My only trouble is that I still have so many of my books still in boxes as I figure out where to put more shelves.
I , too, am not one who can work with lots of distraction, so I like peace and quiet—maybe some classical or jazz playing softly. I often work until midnight, but 3 am is not a time my body or brain would be at its best!
This is so fun! I love peeking into all your beautiful spaces and hearing about the views and set ups. Bonus points to Mary Jo for that sweet furry writing partner.
This is so fun! I love peeking into all your beautiful spaces and hearing about the views and set ups. Bonus points to Mary Jo for that sweet furry writing partner.
This is so fun! I love peeking into all your beautiful spaces and hearing about the views and set ups. Bonus points to Mary Jo for that sweet furry writing partner.
This is so fun! I love peeking into all your beautiful spaces and hearing about the views and set ups. Bonus points to Mary Jo for that sweet furry writing partner.
This is so fun! I love peeking into all your beautiful spaces and hearing about the views and set ups. Bonus points to Mary Jo for that sweet furry writing partner.
3am is extreme. But then I have family from the Carpathian Mountains in Ukraine, so maybe I’m half vampire…
3am is extreme. But then I have family from the Carpathian Mountains in Ukraine, so maybe I’m half vampire…
3am is extreme. But then I have family from the Carpathian Mountains in Ukraine, so maybe I’m half vampire…
3am is extreme. But then I have family from the Carpathian Mountains in Ukraine, so maybe I’m half vampire…
3am is extreme. But then I have family from the Carpathian Mountains in Ukraine, so maybe I’m half vampire…
About 12 years ago, I erected a “wall” of industrial shelving that separates a nearly 2-yard-deep corridor from the rest of our livingroom. It holds my computer desk, my sewing machine, and my stitchery and genealogy supplies. I can “hide” in this space and do Facebook, work on genealogy, plan embroider projects, sew — whatever. The kitchen is close, so I can hear the timer, and removed things from the oven, then return to my “studio”. Neat or messy, it truly is a good place to work.
About 12 years ago, I erected a “wall” of industrial shelving that separates a nearly 2-yard-deep corridor from the rest of our livingroom. It holds my computer desk, my sewing machine, and my stitchery and genealogy supplies. I can “hide” in this space and do Facebook, work on genealogy, plan embroider projects, sew — whatever. The kitchen is close, so I can hear the timer, and removed things from the oven, then return to my “studio”. Neat or messy, it truly is a good place to work.
About 12 years ago, I erected a “wall” of industrial shelving that separates a nearly 2-yard-deep corridor from the rest of our livingroom. It holds my computer desk, my sewing machine, and my stitchery and genealogy supplies. I can “hide” in this space and do Facebook, work on genealogy, plan embroider projects, sew — whatever. The kitchen is close, so I can hear the timer, and removed things from the oven, then return to my “studio”. Neat or messy, it truly is a good place to work.
About 12 years ago, I erected a “wall” of industrial shelving that separates a nearly 2-yard-deep corridor from the rest of our livingroom. It holds my computer desk, my sewing machine, and my stitchery and genealogy supplies. I can “hide” in this space and do Facebook, work on genealogy, plan embroider projects, sew — whatever. The kitchen is close, so I can hear the timer, and removed things from the oven, then return to my “studio”. Neat or messy, it truly is a good place to work.
About 12 years ago, I erected a “wall” of industrial shelving that separates a nearly 2-yard-deep corridor from the rest of our livingroom. It holds my computer desk, my sewing machine, and my stitchery and genealogy supplies. I can “hide” in this space and do Facebook, work on genealogy, plan embroider projects, sew — whatever. The kitchen is close, so I can hear the timer, and removed things from the oven, then return to my “studio”. Neat or messy, it truly is a good place to work.
My talented husband, who does custom woodworking now that he’s retired, made my office furniture. There’s a long narrow table for a desk that holds my keyboard and has room on either side for notes and books. The monitor is on a wall shelf at eye level with a drawer beneath and room at the side for one of those stands that holds pages upright (I still revise by hand and then type in changes). To the left is a piece of furniture that has no name but it has slots for the computer tower and writing supplies like file folders plus numerous drawers and there is space on top for the printer, ups, router and a supply of paper. Yes, it’s organized and neat. And surrounded by floor to ceiling wall to wall bookshelves plus a three drawer lateral filing cabinet. Now if I could just figure out how to remember where I saw that elusive detail I now desperately need for the WIP . . .
My talented husband, who does custom woodworking now that he’s retired, made my office furniture. There’s a long narrow table for a desk that holds my keyboard and has room on either side for notes and books. The monitor is on a wall shelf at eye level with a drawer beneath and room at the side for one of those stands that holds pages upright (I still revise by hand and then type in changes). To the left is a piece of furniture that has no name but it has slots for the computer tower and writing supplies like file folders plus numerous drawers and there is space on top for the printer, ups, router and a supply of paper. Yes, it’s organized and neat. And surrounded by floor to ceiling wall to wall bookshelves plus a three drawer lateral filing cabinet. Now if I could just figure out how to remember where I saw that elusive detail I now desperately need for the WIP . . .
My talented husband, who does custom woodworking now that he’s retired, made my office furniture. There’s a long narrow table for a desk that holds my keyboard and has room on either side for notes and books. The monitor is on a wall shelf at eye level with a drawer beneath and room at the side for one of those stands that holds pages upright (I still revise by hand and then type in changes). To the left is a piece of furniture that has no name but it has slots for the computer tower and writing supplies like file folders plus numerous drawers and there is space on top for the printer, ups, router and a supply of paper. Yes, it’s organized and neat. And surrounded by floor to ceiling wall to wall bookshelves plus a three drawer lateral filing cabinet. Now if I could just figure out how to remember where I saw that elusive detail I now desperately need for the WIP . . .
My talented husband, who does custom woodworking now that he’s retired, made my office furniture. There’s a long narrow table for a desk that holds my keyboard and has room on either side for notes and books. The monitor is on a wall shelf at eye level with a drawer beneath and room at the side for one of those stands that holds pages upright (I still revise by hand and then type in changes). To the left is a piece of furniture that has no name but it has slots for the computer tower and writing supplies like file folders plus numerous drawers and there is space on top for the printer, ups, router and a supply of paper. Yes, it’s organized and neat. And surrounded by floor to ceiling wall to wall bookshelves plus a three drawer lateral filing cabinet. Now if I could just figure out how to remember where I saw that elusive detail I now desperately need for the WIP . . .
My talented husband, who does custom woodworking now that he’s retired, made my office furniture. There’s a long narrow table for a desk that holds my keyboard and has room on either side for notes and books. The monitor is on a wall shelf at eye level with a drawer beneath and room at the side for one of those stands that holds pages upright (I still revise by hand and then type in changes). To the left is a piece of furniture that has no name but it has slots for the computer tower and writing supplies like file folders plus numerous drawers and there is space on top for the printer, ups, router and a supply of paper. Yes, it’s organized and neat. And surrounded by floor to ceiling wall to wall bookshelves plus a three drawer lateral filing cabinet. Now if I could just figure out how to remember where I saw that elusive detail I now desperately need for the WIP . . .
Ha, ha, ha!
Ha, ha, ha!
Ha, ha, ha!
Ha, ha, ha!
Ha, ha, ha!
Glad you enjoyed the peeks, Susie. We all miss Edith very much!
Glad you enjoyed the peeks, Susie. We all miss Edith very much!
Glad you enjoyed the peeks, Susie. We all miss Edith very much!
Glad you enjoyed the peeks, Susie. We all miss Edith very much!
Glad you enjoyed the peeks, Susie. We all miss Edith very much!
Sounds perfect, Sue! Having a private space for work and activities that are near and dear to our hearts is really important.
Sounds perfect, Sue! Having a private space for work and activities that are near and dear to our hearts is really important.
Sounds perfect, Sue! Having a private space for work and activities that are near and dear to our hearts is really important.
Sounds perfect, Sue! Having a private space for work and activities that are near and dear to our hearts is really important.
Sounds perfect, Sue! Having a private space for work and activities that are near and dear to our hearts is really important.
Oh, Kathy—am green with envy on the talented woodworking husband. Do you lend him out?
What a wonderful-sounding space.
I desperately need more bookshelves, and an architect pal has offered to noodle some sketches on how to design them into my writing wall. But he hasn’t said he’d bring hammer and nails
Oh, Kathy—am green with envy on the talented woodworking husband. Do you lend him out?
What a wonderful-sounding space.
I desperately need more bookshelves, and an architect pal has offered to noodle some sketches on how to design them into my writing wall. But he hasn’t said he’d bring hammer and nails
Oh, Kathy—am green with envy on the talented woodworking husband. Do you lend him out?
What a wonderful-sounding space.
I desperately need more bookshelves, and an architect pal has offered to noodle some sketches on how to design them into my writing wall. But he hasn’t said he’d bring hammer and nails
Oh, Kathy—am green with envy on the talented woodworking husband. Do you lend him out?
What a wonderful-sounding space.
I desperately need more bookshelves, and an architect pal has offered to noodle some sketches on how to design them into my writing wall. But he hasn’t said he’d bring hammer and nails
Oh, Kathy—am green with envy on the talented woodworking husband. Do you lend him out?
What a wonderful-sounding space.
I desperately need more bookshelves, and an architect pal has offered to noodle some sketches on how to design them into my writing wall. But he hasn’t said he’d bring hammer and nails
Thanks, Sonya. I am lucky, I know, and the view is lovely and inspiring.
Thanks, Sonya. I am lucky, I know, and the view is lovely and inspiring.
Thanks, Sonya. I am lucky, I know, and the view is lovely and inspiring.
Thanks, Sonya. I am lucky, I know, and the view is lovely and inspiring.
Thanks, Sonya. I am lucky, I know, and the view is lovely and inspiring.
My late mother and I shared a passion for desks – she had 3 and I have at least 6! My mother’s desks punctuated the timeline of her married life – from the 1930’s (Queen Anne veneered bird’s-eye maple bureau desk) where she stored their love letters during the war and all the negatives of early married life to the Nova Scotia schoolmaster’s desk which contained the ’50’s and to the built-in 4′ long one with a gate and bed underneath for her Yorkie which finished the ’70’s and ’80’s. (My father got to her and the 1960’s were in a filing cabinet!) My desks are divided by task rather than time and each has its specific computer, including the one which runs custom software from the 1980’s. I find that sitting at a different desk with a different computer concentrates my mind on the specific task wonderfully! The schoolmaster’s desk is for everyday life (email lists, FB etc. and also research); the magnificent slant top mahogany antique is for formal public life and so on. Of course, I’m single and don’t have to worry about anyone else needing that space!
My late mother and I shared a passion for desks – she had 3 and I have at least 6! My mother’s desks punctuated the timeline of her married life – from the 1930’s (Queen Anne veneered bird’s-eye maple bureau desk) where she stored their love letters during the war and all the negatives of early married life to the Nova Scotia schoolmaster’s desk which contained the ’50’s and to the built-in 4′ long one with a gate and bed underneath for her Yorkie which finished the ’70’s and ’80’s. (My father got to her and the 1960’s were in a filing cabinet!) My desks are divided by task rather than time and each has its specific computer, including the one which runs custom software from the 1980’s. I find that sitting at a different desk with a different computer concentrates my mind on the specific task wonderfully! The schoolmaster’s desk is for everyday life (email lists, FB etc. and also research); the magnificent slant top mahogany antique is for formal public life and so on. Of course, I’m single and don’t have to worry about anyone else needing that space!
My late mother and I shared a passion for desks – she had 3 and I have at least 6! My mother’s desks punctuated the timeline of her married life – from the 1930’s (Queen Anne veneered bird’s-eye maple bureau desk) where she stored their love letters during the war and all the negatives of early married life to the Nova Scotia schoolmaster’s desk which contained the ’50’s and to the built-in 4′ long one with a gate and bed underneath for her Yorkie which finished the ’70’s and ’80’s. (My father got to her and the 1960’s were in a filing cabinet!) My desks are divided by task rather than time and each has its specific computer, including the one which runs custom software from the 1980’s. I find that sitting at a different desk with a different computer concentrates my mind on the specific task wonderfully! The schoolmaster’s desk is for everyday life (email lists, FB etc. and also research); the magnificent slant top mahogany antique is for formal public life and so on. Of course, I’m single and don’t have to worry about anyone else needing that space!
My late mother and I shared a passion for desks – she had 3 and I have at least 6! My mother’s desks punctuated the timeline of her married life – from the 1930’s (Queen Anne veneered bird’s-eye maple bureau desk) where she stored their love letters during the war and all the negatives of early married life to the Nova Scotia schoolmaster’s desk which contained the ’50’s and to the built-in 4′ long one with a gate and bed underneath for her Yorkie which finished the ’70’s and ’80’s. (My father got to her and the 1960’s were in a filing cabinet!) My desks are divided by task rather than time and each has its specific computer, including the one which runs custom software from the 1980’s. I find that sitting at a different desk with a different computer concentrates my mind on the specific task wonderfully! The schoolmaster’s desk is for everyday life (email lists, FB etc. and also research); the magnificent slant top mahogany antique is for formal public life and so on. Of course, I’m single and don’t have to worry about anyone else needing that space!
My late mother and I shared a passion for desks – she had 3 and I have at least 6! My mother’s desks punctuated the timeline of her married life – from the 1930’s (Queen Anne veneered bird’s-eye maple bureau desk) where she stored their love letters during the war and all the negatives of early married life to the Nova Scotia schoolmaster’s desk which contained the ’50’s and to the built-in 4′ long one with a gate and bed underneath for her Yorkie which finished the ’70’s and ’80’s. (My father got to her and the 1960’s were in a filing cabinet!) My desks are divided by task rather than time and each has its specific computer, including the one which runs custom software from the 1980’s. I find that sitting at a different desk with a different computer concentrates my mind on the specific task wonderfully! The schoolmaster’s desk is for everyday life (email lists, FB etc. and also research); the magnificent slant top mahogany antique is for formal public life and so on. Of course, I’m single and don’t have to worry about anyone else needing that space!
Mary Jane, those desks sound absolutely amazing!And love your desks-and-computers for specific tasks. Talk about focusing. And the subtle changes must, as you say, serve as great triggers to the brain that it’s time to switch gears. Very cool!
Mary Jane, those desks sound absolutely amazing!And love your desks-and-computers for specific tasks. Talk about focusing. And the subtle changes must, as you say, serve as great triggers to the brain that it’s time to switch gears. Very cool!
Mary Jane, those desks sound absolutely amazing!And love your desks-and-computers for specific tasks. Talk about focusing. And the subtle changes must, as you say, serve as great triggers to the brain that it’s time to switch gears. Very cool!
Mary Jane, those desks sound absolutely amazing!And love your desks-and-computers for specific tasks. Talk about focusing. And the subtle changes must, as you say, serve as great triggers to the brain that it’s time to switch gears. Very cool!
Mary Jane, those desks sound absolutely amazing!And love your desks-and-computers for specific tasks. Talk about focusing. And the subtle changes must, as you say, serve as great triggers to the brain that it’s time to switch gears. Very cool!
This is great! For whatever reason, I love seeing other writers’ work spaces.
I use the larger bedroom (with the larger closet) in my 2-BR Victorian townhouse as my office. A sunny room, nice size, for which I got white bookcases, white drawers and cabinets, and a white desk (which, though not heavy, has a very large surface area). Recently moved a very comfortable chair and ottoman into the corner (replacing an old one) where I prefer to do most of my writing on a laptop (because it’s much more comfortable than my desk if I’m sitting typing for long hours). All other business occurs at the desk, on the desktop machine.
After years of writing in makeshift spaces in one-bedroom apartments, or in tiny second-bedrooms in slightly bigger apartments, it’s a real pleasure to have a large, sunny, comfortable, well-furnished room for my office–and high time, too! (I think I was on my 28th book when I finally got a space like this.)
This is great! For whatever reason, I love seeing other writers’ work spaces.
I use the larger bedroom (with the larger closet) in my 2-BR Victorian townhouse as my office. A sunny room, nice size, for which I got white bookcases, white drawers and cabinets, and a white desk (which, though not heavy, has a very large surface area). Recently moved a very comfortable chair and ottoman into the corner (replacing an old one) where I prefer to do most of my writing on a laptop (because it’s much more comfortable than my desk if I’m sitting typing for long hours). All other business occurs at the desk, on the desktop machine.
After years of writing in makeshift spaces in one-bedroom apartments, or in tiny second-bedrooms in slightly bigger apartments, it’s a real pleasure to have a large, sunny, comfortable, well-furnished room for my office–and high time, too! (I think I was on my 28th book when I finally got a space like this.)
This is great! For whatever reason, I love seeing other writers’ work spaces.
I use the larger bedroom (with the larger closet) in my 2-BR Victorian townhouse as my office. A sunny room, nice size, for which I got white bookcases, white drawers and cabinets, and a white desk (which, though not heavy, has a very large surface area). Recently moved a very comfortable chair and ottoman into the corner (replacing an old one) where I prefer to do most of my writing on a laptop (because it’s much more comfortable than my desk if I’m sitting typing for long hours). All other business occurs at the desk, on the desktop machine.
After years of writing in makeshift spaces in one-bedroom apartments, or in tiny second-bedrooms in slightly bigger apartments, it’s a real pleasure to have a large, sunny, comfortable, well-furnished room for my office–and high time, too! (I think I was on my 28th book when I finally got a space like this.)
This is great! For whatever reason, I love seeing other writers’ work spaces.
I use the larger bedroom (with the larger closet) in my 2-BR Victorian townhouse as my office. A sunny room, nice size, for which I got white bookcases, white drawers and cabinets, and a white desk (which, though not heavy, has a very large surface area). Recently moved a very comfortable chair and ottoman into the corner (replacing an old one) where I prefer to do most of my writing on a laptop (because it’s much more comfortable than my desk if I’m sitting typing for long hours). All other business occurs at the desk, on the desktop machine.
After years of writing in makeshift spaces in one-bedroom apartments, or in tiny second-bedrooms in slightly bigger apartments, it’s a real pleasure to have a large, sunny, comfortable, well-furnished room for my office–and high time, too! (I think I was on my 28th book when I finally got a space like this.)
This is great! For whatever reason, I love seeing other writers’ work spaces.
I use the larger bedroom (with the larger closet) in my 2-BR Victorian townhouse as my office. A sunny room, nice size, for which I got white bookcases, white drawers and cabinets, and a white desk (which, though not heavy, has a very large surface area). Recently moved a very comfortable chair and ottoman into the corner (replacing an old one) where I prefer to do most of my writing on a laptop (because it’s much more comfortable than my desk if I’m sitting typing for long hours). All other business occurs at the desk, on the desktop machine.
After years of writing in makeshift spaces in one-bedroom apartments, or in tiny second-bedrooms in slightly bigger apartments, it’s a real pleasure to have a large, sunny, comfortable, well-furnished room for my office–and high time, too! (I think I was on my 28th book when I finally got a space like this.)
I love all your writing spaces. Mine is one end of my large dining table situated by a window. Here I blog, Facebook and dabble in writing, surrounded by the books I’m currently reading, pens, notebooks and that all important cup of coffee. I don’t have any old buildings to look at, but the view from my window is of hills that were once covered by miners’ tents when gold fever hit the area in the mid-19th century. I live on the outskirts of a little country town in Victoria, Australia.
I love all your writing spaces. Mine is one end of my large dining table situated by a window. Here I blog, Facebook and dabble in writing, surrounded by the books I’m currently reading, pens, notebooks and that all important cup of coffee. I don’t have any old buildings to look at, but the view from my window is of hills that were once covered by miners’ tents when gold fever hit the area in the mid-19th century. I live on the outskirts of a little country town in Victoria, Australia.
I love all your writing spaces. Mine is one end of my large dining table situated by a window. Here I blog, Facebook and dabble in writing, surrounded by the books I’m currently reading, pens, notebooks and that all important cup of coffee. I don’t have any old buildings to look at, but the view from my window is of hills that were once covered by miners’ tents when gold fever hit the area in the mid-19th century. I live on the outskirts of a little country town in Victoria, Australia.
I love all your writing spaces. Mine is one end of my large dining table situated by a window. Here I blog, Facebook and dabble in writing, surrounded by the books I’m currently reading, pens, notebooks and that all important cup of coffee. I don’t have any old buildings to look at, but the view from my window is of hills that were once covered by miners’ tents when gold fever hit the area in the mid-19th century. I live on the outskirts of a little country town in Victoria, Australia.
I love all your writing spaces. Mine is one end of my large dining table situated by a window. Here I blog, Facebook and dabble in writing, surrounded by the books I’m currently reading, pens, notebooks and that all important cup of coffee. I don’t have any old buildings to look at, but the view from my window is of hills that were once covered by miners’ tents when gold fever hit the area in the mid-19th century. I live on the outskirts of a little country town in Victoria, Australia.
I have an entire room upstairs that is supposed to be my “office”, but it has gradually been overtaken with stacks of papers, books, and other detritus, leaving me working on half the kitchen table most of the time (and serving dinner for me and hubby on the other half). I really need to force myself to clear out the mess and move back upstairs, but something else always seems to get in the way. Besides procrastination and laziness, I mean…. and we won’t be talk about the bead studio area that is gradually crowding me out of the bedroom…
I have an entire room upstairs that is supposed to be my “office”, but it has gradually been overtaken with stacks of papers, books, and other detritus, leaving me working on half the kitchen table most of the time (and serving dinner for me and hubby on the other half). I really need to force myself to clear out the mess and move back upstairs, but something else always seems to get in the way. Besides procrastination and laziness, I mean…. and we won’t be talk about the bead studio area that is gradually crowding me out of the bedroom…
I have an entire room upstairs that is supposed to be my “office”, but it has gradually been overtaken with stacks of papers, books, and other detritus, leaving me working on half the kitchen table most of the time (and serving dinner for me and hubby on the other half). I really need to force myself to clear out the mess and move back upstairs, but something else always seems to get in the way. Besides procrastination and laziness, I mean…. and we won’t be talk about the bead studio area that is gradually crowding me out of the bedroom…
I have an entire room upstairs that is supposed to be my “office”, but it has gradually been overtaken with stacks of papers, books, and other detritus, leaving me working on half the kitchen table most of the time (and serving dinner for me and hubby on the other half). I really need to force myself to clear out the mess and move back upstairs, but something else always seems to get in the way. Besides procrastination and laziness, I mean…. and we won’t be talk about the bead studio area that is gradually crowding me out of the bedroom…
I have an entire room upstairs that is supposed to be my “office”, but it has gradually been overtaken with stacks of papers, books, and other detritus, leaving me working on half the kitchen table most of the time (and serving dinner for me and hubby on the other half). I really need to force myself to clear out the mess and move back upstairs, but something else always seems to get in the way. Besides procrastination and laziness, I mean…. and we won’t be talk about the bead studio area that is gradually crowding me out of the bedroom…
Sounds wonderful, Laura! For me, sun is essential . . .and a comfy chair for reading research material is very nice too!
Sounds wonderful, Laura! For me, sun is essential . . .and a comfy chair for reading research material is very nice too!
Sounds wonderful, Laura! For me, sun is essential . . .and a comfy chair for reading research material is very nice too!
Sounds wonderful, Laura! For me, sun is essential . . .and a comfy chair for reading research material is very nice too!
Sounds wonderful, Laura! For me, sun is essential . . .and a comfy chair for reading research material is very nice too!
Never fear, Betty—you are not alone in the Stuff taking on a life of its own. As I said, I recently moved, and many years of accumulated papers, etc got tossed, so I’m starting fresh . . .but I already see it beginning to accumulate! (I think it grows faster than weeds!)
Never fear, Betty—you are not alone in the Stuff taking on a life of its own. As I said, I recently moved, and many years of accumulated papers, etc got tossed, so I’m starting fresh . . .but I already see it beginning to accumulate! (I think it grows faster than weeds!)
Never fear, Betty—you are not alone in the Stuff taking on a life of its own. As I said, I recently moved, and many years of accumulated papers, etc got tossed, so I’m starting fresh . . .but I already see it beginning to accumulate! (I think it grows faster than weeds!)
Never fear, Betty—you are not alone in the Stuff taking on a life of its own. As I said, I recently moved, and many years of accumulated papers, etc got tossed, so I’m starting fresh . . .but I already see it beginning to accumulate! (I think it grows faster than weeds!)
Never fear, Betty—you are not alone in the Stuff taking on a life of its own. As I said, I recently moved, and many years of accumulated papers, etc got tossed, so I’m starting fresh . . .but I already see it beginning to accumulate! (I think it grows faster than weeds!)
Ah, Yvonne — there’s gold in them thar hills! 🙂 Or at least in the view — so lovely to have a view to inspire the muse. But I’m guessing it’s pretty cold there at the moment. It’s chilly enough in Melbourne.
Ah, Yvonne — there’s gold in them thar hills! 🙂 Or at least in the view — so lovely to have a view to inspire the muse. But I’m guessing it’s pretty cold there at the moment. It’s chilly enough in Melbourne.
Ah, Yvonne — there’s gold in them thar hills! 🙂 Or at least in the view — so lovely to have a view to inspire the muse. But I’m guessing it’s pretty cold there at the moment. It’s chilly enough in Melbourne.
Ah, Yvonne — there’s gold in them thar hills! 🙂 Or at least in the view — so lovely to have a view to inspire the muse. But I’m guessing it’s pretty cold there at the moment. It’s chilly enough in Melbourne.
Ah, Yvonne — there’s gold in them thar hills! 🙂 Or at least in the view — so lovely to have a view to inspire the muse. But I’m guessing it’s pretty cold there at the moment. It’s chilly enough in Melbourne.
Oh, Betty — I so resemble your comment! A good-but-blunt friend of mine once told me that my house would be really neat, if it wasn’t for all the books and papers everywhere. To which I would add, and the beads…
Oh, Betty — I so resemble your comment! A good-but-blunt friend of mine once told me that my house would be really neat, if it wasn’t for all the books and papers everywhere. To which I would add, and the beads…
Oh, Betty — I so resemble your comment! A good-but-blunt friend of mine once told me that my house would be really neat, if it wasn’t for all the books and papers everywhere. To which I would add, and the beads…
Oh, Betty — I so resemble your comment! A good-but-blunt friend of mine once told me that my house would be really neat, if it wasn’t for all the books and papers everywhere. To which I would add, and the beads…
Oh, Betty — I so resemble your comment! A good-but-blunt friend of mine once told me that my house would be really neat, if it wasn’t for all the books and papers everywhere. To which I would add, and the beads…
I’ve got a small bedroom set up as an office, with 2 desks; one big office style desk and an antique cherry drop leaf desk. But I never actually sit in there anymore, they’re just used for storing papers and a place for my printer, answering machine and fax. My actual work space is the living room coffee table, with my laptop. The only time the coffee table gets cleared off is when we have company.
I’ve got a small bedroom set up as an office, with 2 desks; one big office style desk and an antique cherry drop leaf desk. But I never actually sit in there anymore, they’re just used for storing papers and a place for my printer, answering machine and fax. My actual work space is the living room coffee table, with my laptop. The only time the coffee table gets cleared off is when we have company.
I’ve got a small bedroom set up as an office, with 2 desks; one big office style desk and an antique cherry drop leaf desk. But I never actually sit in there anymore, they’re just used for storing papers and a place for my printer, answering machine and fax. My actual work space is the living room coffee table, with my laptop. The only time the coffee table gets cleared off is when we have company.
I’ve got a small bedroom set up as an office, with 2 desks; one big office style desk and an antique cherry drop leaf desk. But I never actually sit in there anymore, they’re just used for storing papers and a place for my printer, answering machine and fax. My actual work space is the living room coffee table, with my laptop. The only time the coffee table gets cleared off is when we have company.
I’ve got a small bedroom set up as an office, with 2 desks; one big office style desk and an antique cherry drop leaf desk. But I never actually sit in there anymore, they’re just used for storing papers and a place for my printer, answering machine and fax. My actual work space is the living room coffee table, with my laptop. The only time the coffee table gets cleared off is when we have company.
Aw, thanks… And FYI I already shared this on the EL Facebook page…
Aw, thanks… And FYI I already shared this on the EL Facebook page…
Aw, thanks… And FYI I already shared this on the EL Facebook page…
Aw, thanks… And FYI I already shared this on the EL Facebook page…
Aw, thanks… And FYI I already shared this on the EL Facebook page…
For a Wile I was a research scientist with a company operating a ‘clear desk policy’. The desk had to be cleared and papers filed away before leaving at night. So every morning I started the day with a blank sheet and only my thoughts … could be quite stimulating!
Of course the situation at home is quite different … much closer to MJ’s office!
On reflection though, I reckon my best ideas may have originated while walking through beautiful countryside. the flora and fauna can provide the perfect environment for truly creative thinking!
For a Wile I was a research scientist with a company operating a ‘clear desk policy’. The desk had to be cleared and papers filed away before leaving at night. So every morning I started the day with a blank sheet and only my thoughts … could be quite stimulating!
Of course the situation at home is quite different … much closer to MJ’s office!
On reflection though, I reckon my best ideas may have originated while walking through beautiful countryside. the flora and fauna can provide the perfect environment for truly creative thinking!
For a Wile I was a research scientist with a company operating a ‘clear desk policy’. The desk had to be cleared and papers filed away before leaving at night. So every morning I started the day with a blank sheet and only my thoughts … could be quite stimulating!
Of course the situation at home is quite different … much closer to MJ’s office!
On reflection though, I reckon my best ideas may have originated while walking through beautiful countryside. the flora and fauna can provide the perfect environment for truly creative thinking!
For a Wile I was a research scientist with a company operating a ‘clear desk policy’. The desk had to be cleared and papers filed away before leaving at night. So every morning I started the day with a blank sheet and only my thoughts … could be quite stimulating!
Of course the situation at home is quite different … much closer to MJ’s office!
On reflection though, I reckon my best ideas may have originated while walking through beautiful countryside. the flora and fauna can provide the perfect environment for truly creative thinking!
For a Wile I was a research scientist with a company operating a ‘clear desk policy’. The desk had to be cleared and papers filed away before leaving at night. So every morning I started the day with a blank sheet and only my thoughts … could be quite stimulating!
Of course the situation at home is quite different … much closer to MJ’s office!
On reflection though, I reckon my best ideas may have originated while walking through beautiful countryside. the flora and fauna can provide the perfect environment for truly creative thinking!
And it’s well furnished with kittens. *G*
And it’s well furnished with kittens. *G*
And it’s well furnished with kittens. *G*
And it’s well furnished with kittens. *G*
And it’s well furnished with kittens. *G*
oh, I’m not the only mad one in the world, thank you! Before we moved to our beach cottage, I had my huge writing desk, my old rolltop accounting desk, a bedroom writing desk, a computer desk, a rolling desk… It’s impossible to have too many desks!
oh, I’m not the only mad one in the world, thank you! Before we moved to our beach cottage, I had my huge writing desk, my old rolltop accounting desk, a bedroom writing desk, a computer desk, a rolling desk… It’s impossible to have too many desks!
oh, I’m not the only mad one in the world, thank you! Before we moved to our beach cottage, I had my huge writing desk, my old rolltop accounting desk, a bedroom writing desk, a computer desk, a rolling desk… It’s impossible to have too many desks!
oh, I’m not the only mad one in the world, thank you! Before we moved to our beach cottage, I had my huge writing desk, my old rolltop accounting desk, a bedroom writing desk, a computer desk, a rolling desk… It’s impossible to have too many desks!
oh, I’m not the only mad one in the world, thank you! Before we moved to our beach cottage, I had my huge writing desk, my old rolltop accounting desk, a bedroom writing desk, a computer desk, a rolling desk… It’s impossible to have too many desks!
which makes total sense to me. Have laptop, will travel… from sunspot to sunspot, like a cat.
which makes total sense to me. Have laptop, will travel… from sunspot to sunspot, like a cat.
which makes total sense to me. Have laptop, will travel… from sunspot to sunspot, like a cat.
which makes total sense to me. Have laptop, will travel… from sunspot to sunspot, like a cat.
which makes total sense to me. Have laptop, will travel… from sunspot to sunspot, like a cat.
Desks are workplaces. Feeling as if you’ve cleared it at the end of the day gives an air of accomplishment, but does not necessarily promote creativity. You’re quite right!
Desks are workplaces. Feeling as if you’ve cleared it at the end of the day gives an air of accomplishment, but does not necessarily promote creativity. You’re quite right!
Desks are workplaces. Feeling as if you’ve cleared it at the end of the day gives an air of accomplishment, but does not necessarily promote creativity. You’re quite right!
Desks are workplaces. Feeling as if you’ve cleared it at the end of the day gives an air of accomplishment, but does not necessarily promote creativity. You’re quite right!
Desks are workplaces. Feeling as if you’ve cleared it at the end of the day gives an air of accomplishment, but does not necessarily promote creativity. You’re quite right!
Quantum, I so hear you about ideas coming when one gets away from the desk and thinking in one way, to walking and switching a subtle switch in the brain with the outdoor stimulus. I find I often untangle plot problems that I’ve struggled with all day just by going out in the evening and taking a walk. You’re a scientist—I’m sure you have a wonderfully complex answer for what sens the neurons firing on different cylinders. Whatever the nuanced brain chemistry, it works!
Quantum, I so hear you about ideas coming when one gets away from the desk and thinking in one way, to walking and switching a subtle switch in the brain with the outdoor stimulus. I find I often untangle plot problems that I’ve struggled with all day just by going out in the evening and taking a walk. You’re a scientist—I’m sure you have a wonderfully complex answer for what sens the neurons firing on different cylinders. Whatever the nuanced brain chemistry, it works!
Quantum, I so hear you about ideas coming when one gets away from the desk and thinking in one way, to walking and switching a subtle switch in the brain with the outdoor stimulus. I find I often untangle plot problems that I’ve struggled with all day just by going out in the evening and taking a walk. You’re a scientist—I’m sure you have a wonderfully complex answer for what sens the neurons firing on different cylinders. Whatever the nuanced brain chemistry, it works!
Quantum, I so hear you about ideas coming when one gets away from the desk and thinking in one way, to walking and switching a subtle switch in the brain with the outdoor stimulus. I find I often untangle plot problems that I’ve struggled with all day just by going out in the evening and taking a walk. You’re a scientist—I’m sure you have a wonderfully complex answer for what sens the neurons firing on different cylinders. Whatever the nuanced brain chemistry, it works!
Quantum, I so hear you about ideas coming when one gets away from the desk and thinking in one way, to walking and switching a subtle switch in the brain with the outdoor stimulus. I find I often untangle plot problems that I’ve struggled with all day just by going out in the evening and taking a walk. You’re a scientist—I’m sure you have a wonderfully complex answer for what sens the neurons firing on different cylinders. Whatever the nuanced brain chemistry, it works!
I have a dedicated office/library space that holds my desk and computer, with 6 full (sized and full of books) bookshelves and two small bookshelves under the large window that looks out to the street so I can see the world go by. There are lots of little mementos, plaques, pictures, etc. scattered around and when I’m there (which is most of the time) I feel the most comfortable. I do not favor neatness, there are books stacked on the floor, a chair full of books, and a table with various things piled on it, but I don’t care, it’s just fine for me. I have a lots of things that make me smile, especially things given to me by family and friends, including two framed Amy Brown sister fairy pictures given to me by my sister.
I have a dedicated office/library space that holds my desk and computer, with 6 full (sized and full of books) bookshelves and two small bookshelves under the large window that looks out to the street so I can see the world go by. There are lots of little mementos, plaques, pictures, etc. scattered around and when I’m there (which is most of the time) I feel the most comfortable. I do not favor neatness, there are books stacked on the floor, a chair full of books, and a table with various things piled on it, but I don’t care, it’s just fine for me. I have a lots of things that make me smile, especially things given to me by family and friends, including two framed Amy Brown sister fairy pictures given to me by my sister.
I have a dedicated office/library space that holds my desk and computer, with 6 full (sized and full of books) bookshelves and two small bookshelves under the large window that looks out to the street so I can see the world go by. There are lots of little mementos, plaques, pictures, etc. scattered around and when I’m there (which is most of the time) I feel the most comfortable. I do not favor neatness, there are books stacked on the floor, a chair full of books, and a table with various things piled on it, but I don’t care, it’s just fine for me. I have a lots of things that make me smile, especially things given to me by family and friends, including two framed Amy Brown sister fairy pictures given to me by my sister.
I have a dedicated office/library space that holds my desk and computer, with 6 full (sized and full of books) bookshelves and two small bookshelves under the large window that looks out to the street so I can see the world go by. There are lots of little mementos, plaques, pictures, etc. scattered around and when I’m there (which is most of the time) I feel the most comfortable. I do not favor neatness, there are books stacked on the floor, a chair full of books, and a table with various things piled on it, but I don’t care, it’s just fine for me. I have a lots of things that make me smile, especially things given to me by family and friends, including two framed Amy Brown sister fairy pictures given to me by my sister.
I have a dedicated office/library space that holds my desk and computer, with 6 full (sized and full of books) bookshelves and two small bookshelves under the large window that looks out to the street so I can see the world go by. There are lots of little mementos, plaques, pictures, etc. scattered around and when I’m there (which is most of the time) I feel the most comfortable. I do not favor neatness, there are books stacked on the floor, a chair full of books, and a table with various things piled on it, but I don’t care, it’s just fine for me. I have a lots of things that make me smile, especially things given to me by family and friends, including two framed Amy Brown sister fairy pictures given to me by my sister.