Nikki M. Pill

Words written: 397

Total words: 25,823

Pages: 55 of 97… kinda. I finished one scene and jumped back to add the funeral.

Reason for stopping: Milo is lobbying hard for breakfast, and I have a yoga date with Michi this morning!

Darling du Jour:  At the sight of the open door, though, Caprice dug her claws into my stomach and struggled mightily. I stifled the urge to yelp, but I swear she turned boneless and slid out of my grasp. She shot across the hall and into the darkness of my apartment.

            I didn’t think – I just took a step to chase her. Santiago’s arm shot out and blocked me. His face was stern, but his dark eyes were soft. He knew something about love. I nodded and stepped back. 

Fail du Jour: None. Today was made of win.

Mean Things:  Anna has to stuff Caprice in a carrier and drag her across town. And her potato chips get smashed.

Jury-rigging:    I figured that they would probably clear the apartment before dusting the door for prints — because if the killer is in the apartment, then it would give him time to get away.

Inspiration du Jour:  Cherlyn Coplon

Misc: Yesterday I went in for an acupuncture treatment, and Cherlyn the Fabulous Acupuncturist put me on the Lounge. It’s an amazing relaxation treatment. She set me up with the “unconditional love” meditation, and as I lay there, I started processing the end of this book. I finally figured out the element that was missing from the climax of the story — because only threatening someone she loves can motivate Anna to [spoiler redacted]. I’ve also figured out how to move the other scenes around to get what I need into the story. The end is within reach!

And then the edits, the schlepping to Eric to see what’s broken, and more edits. As TC says, “First the ecstasy, then the laundry. Chop wood, carry water.”

In other news:  This week I’ve been invited to do a pin-up inspired shoot for a new line of yoga clothing, and I’ve found a great work-trade arrangement for some work on these novels (I’m teaching dance in exchange for the line edits). Things are Falling Into Place.

Elizabeth Bear talks about post-novel ennui — I think I get post-story and post-event ennui in a big way. I’m still a bit foggy. I read another Holly lesson today, dithered about some transition points, and played with the cats. I think I figured out how to get Jacy past the initial conversation. The bartender still has no personality. I require him to be something of a lech but not overtly so.

Met Eric last night and we talked shop for a few hours, which usually helps me recharge a little. He has a very pragmatic way of breaking massive projects into manageable chunks, and generally making the entire process less daunting.