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Writing Rituals: How I Keep the Magic Flowing

Fantasy author's office with woodland furniture designed by elves, windows ringed with ancient tree branches, a lit lamp in the corner, a cozy atmohosphere
A peek at my fantasy office. No, really!

There's a delightful misconception in the literary world, a near-legendary tale that authors are fueled purely by coffee—cup after cup of that intoxicating brew, our muse for every page turned and every tale spun. But here's a little secret from my corner of the fantasy realm: while most authors are downing espressos and lattes, I'm sipping on apple cider. Yes, you read that right. Sparkling apple juice is my potion of choice, the golden elixir that fuels my tales of enchanting worlds and passionate shifters.

Sparkling apple juice in a clear glass flute, bubbles and foam on the top, surrounded by crisp apples with a yellow-red colored skin
My sparkling apple cider looks a little too bubbly

My writing rituals aren't the stuff of legend or grand gestures. They're woven into the fabric of my everyday life, each one adding its own sprinkle of magic to my writing process. Some days, it's the effervescence of the sparkling apple juice dancing on my tongue, bringing a zing of inspiration. On others, it's the gentle hum of nature outside my window, or perhaps the soft, rhythmic cadence of my fingers tapping against the keys.

But what's a day in the life of an author without a bit of mischief? Enter my two feline co-authors. These lovely ladies have perfected the art of the pounce, always at the most dramatic moments in my stories. A romantic confession? Pounce! A climactic battle? Pounce! And let's not forget my ever-enthusiastic Dameranian, always ready to vie for attention, reminding me to stretch my legs and take in a breath of fresh air.

Orange shorthair cat is pouncing a computer keyboard next to a gray striped shorthair cat who looks off in the distance. The desk is wooden and has a cup holder, books, a keyboard
Two cute kittens playing on a desk

You might think these interruptions would be a hindrance, but they're part of what keeps my daily writing habits fresh and unpredictable. The spontaneity, the spark of the unexpected, is what fuels my creativity. It's in these moments that I find new directions for my stories or solutions to plot dilemmas.

In the end, every author's ritual is as unique as their voice. While coffee might be the lifeblood for some, I've found my rhythm in sparkling apple drinks, playful pets, and the joy of the unexpected. So, the next time you're diving into one of my tales, just imagine a serene scene disrupted by a playful pounce or a bubbly sip of apple drink and know that's where the magic truly comes to life.

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