Barbie Perkins-Cooper, Author

Today has been a ‘typical’ Monday, starting off with the phone ringing — shall I say — almost continuously, along with the doorbell. Apparently a service company I shall not name forgot to tell me during a phone conversation that they were scheduling the service for early Monday morning. Since I was not exactly dressed for the day — still sipping my morning coffee and relaxing while working in my shorty p.j.’s, I refused to answer the door. Ring. Ring. Ring, goes the telephone. I chose to allow the answering machine to do its magic. Now, I ask you — why must I be interrupted by the silly telephone when I have better things to do.

And so, starts the week. To quote an old cliché — “Calgon, take me away.” What I should say — is — where is the Chardonnay, or White Zinfandel?” Ok, it’s just a bit early to be sipping a glass of wine, but this day has put me to the test.

Have you ever had a day where everything is planned? Things to Do list is ready to be checked off. #1 – Write the notes for the newsletter I am working on. #2 – Finish the notes for the Ladies Auxiliary meeting. #3 – Work on notes for “Chattahoochee Child.”

The only check mark I have accomplished is #1. Notes for the newsletter. Suddenly I realize just where my time goes. Answering the door bell. Answering the phone, and attempting to care for three dogs who seem to want outside more than inside, only to come back inside again, to scratch at the back door to say — “Hey Mom, I want outside again.” Glancing at my Things to Do I realize, I am much too busy doing non-profit volunteer work than I am working on my writing career. Perhaps that is because I am a bit burned out from writing, and I need to get a life!

Oops. Interrupted again! Shamus is whining at the back door. Silly guy. He wants inside.  And now, I hear my husband driving up. So much for a productive day today! Suppose I’ll close this and work on — NOTHING!