Now – I approach time differently. But I still take short-cuts in order to maximise glorious writing time. I hardly ever iron. Grocery shopping is done on line. Anything which resembles housework is fitting in, so I almost don’t notice myself doing it. The one thing I don’t skimp on is time with my family and friends – the people I love. A few crumbs on the floor don’t matter; my grandchildren do.

Hi Terri,
Thanks for your kind words on the blue curlers post. Yes, I’m afraid worrying about money never enhances our writing. And I’m sure it’s not just us writers who make constant trade-offs. If there’s one upside to the economic downturn, it’s that we’ve had to learn that we can’t have it all –and maybe that’s not such a bad thing. Thanks for visiting.
Aine

Monica,
Thanks so much for your comment. You’ve given up dating? Yikes! Now, *there’s* a sacrifice to be made for writing. But I do hear you. As much as we value personal relationships (or not), it’s always a balance between how much you give or commune or chat (“how was your day dear?”) and how much you retreat into that personal, deeper side of you. I believe that this is a key challenge for writers. That said, I once listened to a very accomplished poet who said he can only compose at the kitchen table, right in the middle of the household and family action. NOT ME.
Love the comment about the “airdry style.” That’s what I’m moving toward, but it’s the growing out, in-between hair phase that’s tough–all those little bits that keep popping out of their barettes …. sigh. But it sure saves money.

Thanks again,
Aine

Mostly, I’ve given up dating! Between trying to write a new book, promoting my current release, walking the dog, grooming the horse, grocery shopping, blogging, and the day job, who has time to date?!?! Maybe like one of my heroines, my hero is just around the next corner. No online profile needed.

Love the story about the Blue Curlers. So they still sell those anymore?

You ask us what we’ve given up to write? That’s a wonderful question and I look forward to seeing what others share.

As a microbusiness owner now, (I own my own work and my computer!), I work from home, so rarely have to dress up. Curling my hair involves putting it in a pony tail wet for the drive and rolling it. (No curlers, but they would be more effective!) The days of having time to blow dry my hair, put make-up on, color my hair, get my nails done, own and wear stockings, polish shoes, shop for new pretty clothing… went out when the full time professional job disappeared one surprising June day five years ago. Instant retirement from corporate life. Instant life long self-employment.

Thank you for your fun post! – Anora, editor