Sometimes progress comes slow… subtle changes over time that add up. That has been my story in so many ways, but in this instance, I am relating it to improvements in my office. When it was no longer needed as a space for my real children, it became a home for my book babies. Each update I make to it makes it feel more like a space that I can create in, although I have trained myself over time to pretty much write anywhere. Ideally though, I like a quiet space filled with things that inspire me. I think we have accomplished that.
The room is small, and I always thought the closet door was tragically unusable space. I decided to try dry erase paint to see if I could create an area to mind map my books, since hanging my dry erase board in the room wasn’t workable (the bookcase was a priority and there isn’t much wall space). The paint was a fail as the markers didn’t wipe off easily, especially since what I write there often stays up for some time depending on the project. I decided I needed something different, even though the paint was a costly experiment.
So recently I ordered a white board “contact paper” which is the best way I can describe it. After trimming to size and carefully applying it, the result seems to be good so far. I plan to use it in the new year for my Supernatural Mystery series, since I have a ton to plot out for the 4 books I have planned. The edges may need some trim to keep the paper from peeling up… more on that later once we make a trip to Home Depot. What made me laugh is the label that came with the rolls (which I put in the image). I was so tempted to leave the film on since the Cozy Mystery series will have need of the ghost for pretty much every writing session. Having them leave before I finish the book wouldn’t be good for anyone. Ahhh the writer’s brain. 😂
Before the holidays, I wasn’t able to move around in here since it was gift-wrapping-central, so I was so happy to come home and regroup after the gift-giving was over. I landed some amazing writing related gifts between my birthday and Christmas, and I am having a hard time choosing my favorite. What I can say is that they are all out on display and if I could replace something old by putting it out, it made me twice as happy!
My husband and daughters had a 3-way tie for best office present this year because I love them each equally. Although when the enchanted rose my husband gifted is lit, it bounces to the top of the list pretty quickly. Talk about feeling like Belle! Now all I need is a rolling ladder for my bookshelves!
The seal in the top right embosses the image shown in the center, and I’m so excited to try it out on some of my signed copies from author friends. It is a little aggressive, so will need to do practice runs on plain paper first. My youngest also got me the cup… knowing full well that I’m bad about staying hydrated. The oldest got me a heated throw, which is covering me now as I type. Between that, the heated slippers my honey got me, and the little space heater I have in here, it will be a cozy winter!
I received a lighted bottle with a friendship quote from one friend, and the Forest Fae oracle cards from another, both of which are within reach of my desk. The image below shows the office at night with strip lighting we hung around the top edge of the room that is linked to my device (which is also purple, it’s my thing, lol) and can be asked to change the strip to any number of colors on demand. I can’t tell you how relaxing it is to hang out in my reading chair with a candle burning and these twinkle lights on. So magical and inspiring! The perfect vibe to do some much needed noodling!
Anyway, I am sharing my office progress as a placeholder in my timeline and hope to have a final progress report by the end of 2025. The last bit of organization will be the closet being turned into a workable space for files and supplies, and getting the videos and pictures out of there and onto an external hard drive. Baby Steps! I have come a really long way from this space shown… the folding chair was brutal!
If you are interested in what I have planned for my writing projects in 2025, check out my annual Treasure Map post here: https://dahenneman.com/2024/12/28/my-2025-writer-goals-das-treasure-map/
Did you get any cool writer related gifts for the holidays? If so, share them in the comments! In the meantime, I hope you have an amazing and productive week!
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D.A. Henneman - Romance Author 
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