Reading deprivation, day 4

Not loving it, not hating it

Day 4

Reading is on my mind constantly. It’s like when you’re on Whole 30, and all you can think about is cheese or brownies or bread.

I crave a story
to get lost in, to escape
stories I could write

-LR

My commitment to not read for pleasure is both doable and a stretch for me. As much as I read today (my entire job is reading and writing), avoiding non-work reading still took a lot of effort.

It felt pretty amazing to hit send on my first Substack post after having it as a creative goal for the last, what, month and a half? My 2024 goals include planning a creative retreat, teaching a writing workshop through our local library, and making another trip back to the George Peabody Library in Baltimore (this time to sit and write!!).

Later…

I’m in the car line at school. I wish I could read. This is usually when I would catch up on newsletters or A Cup of Jo. I should print out some crossword puzzles to keep in the car. I’m glad I have my notebook.

I’m toying with the idea of setting up the card table in the family room so I can keep my paint by number there instead of at the kitchen counter. Chloe wonders how long it will take me to finish. She guesses 40 days. Ha! I hope it doesn’t take me 40 days! But, it does take a long time. I can spend a solid half hour and only complete a tiny portion. It’s incredibly therapeutic.

I listened to the Brooklyn soundtrack while driving today. It was the perfect background music for daydreaming and gazing at the snowy fields along the highway. I’m excited to finish the movie tonight.