...And just when you think you've unburied yourself from the morass in which work has mucked you, entirely new challenges pop up.
Let's see. Grandmother died peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by all her children (10, count 'em, together again for the first time in 31 years) two weeks ago. Dad's on new meds which radically changes the way he's eaten his entire life and leaves me occasionally frozen in the kitchen, wondering what won't raise his tyramine levels and cause a stroke.
I finished writing an essay for a friend who is editing a cookbook. I've been working on a marketing project for a publisher. I finished a presentation for a start up company. I wrote a business plan for another start up company. I'm in discussion with another start up to write their business plan. I am doing research for friends in consulting. I am moonlighting as a writer on fashion websites.
Oh, and have I mentioned this comes AFTER the day job which runs from (theoretically) 8:30 to 6:00 every work day?
The best thing about not watching TV except what I've selected on TiVo? Time. Unbelievable amounts of time. In the evenings and on the weekends.
Alas, but only to accomplish the work projects. I've been neglecting the blog terribly and I keep building up more and more stories that I keep meaning to write about...but blast it, when?
Hi there, it's Julie's friend Tanya...I'm glad Julie's hooked me up with your blog because you are a FABULOUS writer. I'm inspired by ALL that you do! I LOVE the idea of only watching what you've collected on TiVo - if I had it that would be the best plan ever to help me finish my doctorate! In the meantime, I guess I'll try the ancient version - setting the VCR. :) Keep up the great work!
Posted by: Tanya Williams | September 06, 2006 at 10:02 AM
Hey, it's OK. I know what you mean - I'm feeling like the classic chicken with it's head cut off.
I love your writing and I'll stay tuned.
Slip in two moments of peace and breath deeply ever so often.
Posted by: Tanna | September 06, 2006 at 10:25 AM
I am sorry to hear about your grandmother passing and the challenges of preparing food for your father. Getting glimpses into your world through the website are a pleasure indeed.
Posted by: beastmomma | September 07, 2006 at 01:36 AM
Tanya! When are you coming so I can pamper you with food and spa activities? Jules and I are trying to organize her housewarming -- will I at least see you there?
Tanna -- thank you for your unflagging support. It REALLY brightens up my day, tremendously!
Jaspreet -- wonderful as always. i am hoping Seattle proves to be a beautiful adventure for you!
Posted by: cath | September 08, 2006 at 10:41 PM
My condolences on the passing of your Grandmother. Don't stay away too long, I miss your wonderful way with words.
Posted by: barbara | September 09, 2006 at 11:17 PM
You know, I was thinking about you just the other day and hoping that all was well! I'm sorry to hear about your grandmother but it sounds like all her loved ones were with her and that is indeed a beautiful thing.
While you seem unbelievably busy, I'm thrilled for you because it means you're doing what you love. Just don't forget about your blog as your faithful readers miss you!
Posted by: Ivonne | September 10, 2006 at 09:08 PM
Condolences on your gran. Big hug.
Busy-ness seems to be the key word right now. Why do we keep doing so much?
j
Posted by: jasmine | September 14, 2006 at 07:25 PM
i'm so sorry to hear about your grandmother...
i'm dropping by to read your wonderful stories about food :)
Posted by: eliza | September 15, 2006 at 12:53 AM
What a nice way to go - surrounded by family. Even if it's a sad thing that your grandmother is gone. I can understand you're feeling swamped - good grief, what a list of things you've done! Hang in there
Posted by: Luisa | September 19, 2006 at 01:28 PM
Cath,
Sorry to read about your grandma. But glad to see you blogging again ;)
Concerning the time factor, I think my days could have 48 hours, still I'd feel like my todos won't decrease. Sometimes it helps to take a little break and think about what is really important, like spending time with family and dear friends.
Posted by: Nicky | September 21, 2006 at 04:59 AM
Cath,
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss - I'm thinking of you.
I'm so glad that you have such fun and interesting projects in the works right now - it's amazing that you're able to do all of those things at once. You are superwoman!
-G
Posted by: Geneve | September 24, 2006 at 06:04 PM
I'm sorry about your grandmother.
Posted by: Duane | September 29, 2006 at 01:14 PM
Blogger's Block??
Posted by: tony of Bachelor cooking | October 06, 2006 at 07:48 AM