Why Write? Why Drink? Why Blog?

Good questions. Important questions.

As far as the writing goes, unlike most authors, I don't do it for the rejection. Don't get me wrong I love a good "Dear Author, thanks but no thanks" letter just as much as the next guy. I write for the pleasure...nay the joy... of the wait time. Those three to six months to a year of checking my emails and mail and voice mail with near religious fervor. I adore the wild mood swings between "I'm good at this, I really am" to "What the @$?! do I think I'm doing?" Those mood swings - my husband will tell you -- make my marriage something akin to a Cambodian Mine Field. I've grown terribly fond of Patty - my ulcer.

Those months are the breeding grounds for self-doubt and worry and fear. And I LOVE it.

Joking aside, there are some aspects of this profession (calling? - don't know) that are truly blissful. Sitting around a table with like-minded (and far more intelligent and savvy than I am) writers, hashing out an idea, is a really good time. And I do enjoy the jigsaw puzzle of editing. I love the moments of magic when I am able to surprise myself with a particular plot point or character reveal. Those things keep me going through those crazy months of waiting and doubting.

Why Drink? Is there anything better than getting a really good booth at your favorite watering hole and being half-way through the transforming second drink? I say transforming because I know I get a little smarter with a pint and half in me and I can GUARANTEE the other two on this blog get smarter. We peak in the middle of our third and then the wheels fall off at the end of the fourth...and yet...some nights...we have five and the real genius is coaxed out, but we can't remember it in the morning.

Why Blog? Actually, I'm not too sure about that one. Because everyone is? Because Maureen thinks it's a good idea? I know I'm doing this to see what Maureen and Sinead have to say... they are savvy folk. Drunk or not.