Writing Buddies - Romance Writers Weekly - #lovechatwrite

Our goldfish overwinter in our basement, but soon will be out in the pond!

​I grew up with lots of animals. We had a small acreage and over the years we had cows, horses, goats, rabbits, chickens, ducks…and always at least one dog and cat. This week on the RWW Blog, we’re talking pets!
 
Dogs or cats? Or other choices. Or no pets? Pictures please. And how does that help your writing?
 
Comparing dogs and cats is just like comparing apples and oranges. Both are perfect in their own ways. But if I could only have one pet, it would be a cat. They are more independent than dogs, so it's easier to leave them at home when we travel, and yet still give your home that energy of “not just humans.” I know lots of people believe cats are too standoffish to make good companions, and those we’ve had over the years have certainly had their moments. However, there is nothing as soothing as the loud, rumbling purr from a warm furry body curled up next to you.

That being said, our only pets right now are our cocker spaniel/beagle cross, Aspen, and eight goldfish. While the goldfish are fascinating to our grandchildren, I’m attached to them more for their longevity than their personalities, LOL.

Aspen is only our second dog, and the only one we raised from a puppy. She loves to go for long walks, enjoys our boat, and howls at every siren she hears. I have to be careful after a writing stint as she likes to lay directly behind my office chair!

Writing is a solitary occupation. I think that’s why I like to write in our family room, where I still feel part of the action. Having Aspen nearby is also a comfort. I like her quiet, undemanding presence. Except when the mail carrier comes up the street. Or a squirrel runs by on the fence outside the window. Or a fire truck is heard from the highway. Then all bets are off!!

What about you? Do you have pets? Share your stories below. Then hop over to Jill Haymaker. I am fairly certain she has strong views on animals and writing!

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Coming April 13!
​Strictly by the Book
(Book Four in the Silverberry Seduction Seasoned Romance Series. Can be read as a standalone) (Natalie 36, Rafe 42)
 
Pre Order Now $2.99 Ebook, $13.99 Print
Read an excerpt here.
 
An adventurous, go-with-the-flow historian…a scrupulous, stick-to-the-rules scientist…an attraction so wrong it’s absolutely right.

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Chalk it up to Love
Available now
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All fourth grade teacher, ERIN MIDNIGHT, wants is to establish a new normal for herself and her ten-year-old son. Recently divorced, she struggles to cope with being a single mom. Fortunately, her hometown of Aspen Ridge, Colorado, provides the perfect place for her to heal.

BOYD GARRETT’S life changed the day his wife was senselessly killed by a texting driver. No longer fulfilled by his life in the big city, he accepts a new teaching job in the tiny, mountain town of Aspen Ridge, hoping to find an escape from the memories that haunt him.

These two people have learned that with love comes pain. But, sometimes—we get a second chance.