My family and friends worried about me as I time counted down to this new stage: daily life without kids at home for the first time in… well, the better part of 20 years. Of course I cracked jokes all summer (it was the only way to get through the chaos) about how much fun I thought my boring days would be.
Concerned friends and family smiled as if I was a bit touched in my optimistic assessment.
Hey I write novels for a living. Having a vivid, touched imagination is a good thing! Whether it’s my paranormal romance or urban fantasy novels in contemporary or futuristic settings, I strive to develop a world view for my characters as well as a rich world where they can have their fabulous adventures. Telling me I get more time to play in those worlds – well, what’s not to love?
Still, it seems the people who love me most were afraid I would rattle around here sort of lost, looking for a child to nurture. But the reality (as I told my husband when he called from work to check on me) is I’m LOVING it!
Let’s be honest, with the imaginary friends and amazing adventures waiting to be discovered, I’m tickled pink with my new, wide open schedule. And with three retired greyhounds, two spoiled cats (one of whom is draped across my lap as I write this), and two quirky finches my nest isn’t exactly barren.
It’s a little like what I’ve heard about being retired: if you have a hobby, you have it all. At this point – only in so far as time commitment goes – my children have moved to hobby status. They pop in with news on the phone or via skype, but they’re managing all the little daily stuff on their own.
It’s affirming, and exciting, to shift my energy to the myriad characters and ideas that have been rattling about in my mind just waiting for their shot on the page.
While I’m sure there will be lonely days – that happens no matter who you are or where you live – my imaginary friends and I are looking forward to this new venture.
Live the adventure!
