jackhammering onward

Your suggestions and comments were fabulous! The sad truth is that I've called the city and the jackhammer hell (ahem, construction) will continue through October if not longer. I run fans all day long to make white noise to cover up the jackhammer noises. I do own an I-pod, but find that more noise on top of the noise of not one, but two jackhammer construction projects within a few blocks puts me over the edge. Although I love music, I listen to it intently when I have it on, so I do not work with music on because I can't concentrate on the work part.

With the fans on, the jackhammering is a low deep rumble that vibrates my house a bit. I'd escape to a coffee shop or the library but these venues are all (alas) within a few blocks of the noise. They also lack a full dining room table for 3 sets of proofs AND a laptop! I did rush out to do errands the other day as a "reward" for getting through proofreading. Never has buying dog food seemed so luxurious, so quiet and meaningful. I found this ribbon, too, and I bought it. I liked the colors and it said "hipster" and "bistro" on the labels (two positive words). You'll be amazed when you see this stuff turn up again someday in a knitting project. :)

There's no consensus on which button I should choose for that other project. I dug deep into the button stash and found a few more options for the professor to consider. As soon as I can flag him down, I'm sure he'll offer his two cents. In the meanwhile, I am slogging onward. Donna mentioned on her blog that writers go through these periods of ups and down. Sometimes I'm really "in the groove." The writing goes quickly, it's a joy, the other business details are all tolerable, and I feel I was destined for this life. Then, there are the slog times. Maybe it's the proofreading (almost done, thank goodness) or the jackhammer? but this is a period of slog.

The professor has a Swiss friend and colleague named Chris. Once, when Chris was at our house for dinner..oh...at least 8 years ago...he mentioned that in Switzerland, fruit pies are often consumed at breakfast. This week, I lay in bed at 6:15 AM, listening to the jackhammers start early, and the only thing motivating me to get up? Is this peach pie. I've almost finished it. I made it on Sunday night. I know it's bad to equate food with a reward, I know. I can't help it. At least it's a homemade reward! With tea and a glass of milk, it's the breakfast of proofreading champions.

I've been hoping for a way to actually run away for a few days from the jackhammer but my schedule is pretty booked with actual local commitments. Instead, I'm running away for the afternoon and evening. Tonight, the professor and I are going to the Fair! The Tennessee State Fair has a fleece auction and spinning contest every year. It's at 7:30 tonight in Nashville if you're in the vicinity. We love us some sheep and wool and if you link that to a meal in a big city restaurant, it's well worth the gas. Plus, I don't have to take notes this year, shoot photos, or write a book on it. I can just buy a little fleece or two. (cause sometimes retail therapy is necessary and comes with a nice sheepy smell!)

Considering the date (9/11) and the world we live in, there are lots worse things that could happen (heaven forbid) to us than a little noise and proofreading. Take a moment to wish for a little peace today...and a lot less violence for all of us. All options on the table, it makes jackhammering look--well-- good.

So, do you eat pie for breakfast? Does double-sided ribbon make you weak in the knees? How about fleece therapy? Do tell!