Why Are You Reading Blogs on the Fourth of July?

[Peg Herring]

Well, I'm writing this as I wait for my pies to bake. I'll take them to the church pie social then head for the Alumni Tent where I'll set up displays and greet people from all over the US. It's what we do on the Fourth. If it sounds corny to you, you don't get it. But if you don't "do" the Fourth, you're probably spending your day off at the computer.

I know a real city girl who hates the whole rural thing: long distances to any sort of cultural event, stores that aren't open 24/7, trees that interfere with the wireless signal.

I, on the other hand, love the lack of traffic, the peaceful environment, and the fact that I know almost everyone I meet on the street each day.

I guess this relates to writing character. If I were to make a city girl protagonist, I'd try to get into City Girl's mind and think as she does. The character would NOT be her as such, but I could use things she has said to make the character seem real.

My favorite came years ago when a carload of us got out to look at a waterfall in Canada. It was down an embankment and around a corner, so actually seeing it involved a short walk. City Girl opted to stay in the car. "Don't you want to see the waterfall?" I asked.

"There's Outside and there's Inside," she told me. "Your waterfall is just Outside." Now what author could resist stealing a line like that?

[Peg Herring]

True, but before, I didn't know that those peaceful times were so good so I took them for granted.
I'm glad your story ends well. I guess we have to think of it as building character, so we can write from depths of emotion that others can't access.

[Peg Herring]

I'm on my third time as caregiver, and if I didn't have my husband I'd pack it in and give up my last thread of sanity. However, I believe in dancing in the rain, and I believe that work keeps you sane (Hey, that rhymes!). Writing is my solace. And walking in the woods. Yesterday I met an elk on my "back 40." What a beautiful end to the Fourth of July!

[Christine Duncan]

I'm reading blogs because it's 95 degrees out, so I can't be outside--even though every kid on my street is outside and lighting fireworks--and they have been since--oh probably last Friday morning. They don't care that it's not dark yet--it is the noise that they love.
I've been to a barbecue and will go to see the (city sponsored) fireworks in a bit--when it's dark and not so hot. But right now, I'm cooling off and relaxing.

[Peg Herring]

Nice to hear from you. I'm writing now because I'm too exhausted to do anything else. It was a great day, though. Lots of former classmates, students, etc. stopping by to see everyone on the Fourth. I even sold a couple of books!

[Clair Dickson]

I'm reading blogs because I just got off work and this is how I unwind. =) Besides, I don't do social functions unless I have to. If it were up to me, I'd remain in my controlled climate porcupine den forever. Enjoy the freedoms and such.