Today, I’m at Jansen Art Center in Lynden, Washington on a writer’s retreat with 11 other writers. We’re all sitting in the library upstairs, sipping coffee and tapping away on our laptops. I’m pouring through photos of Ireland and trying to gain inspiration to finish writing the final chapter of my book. Yes, the FINAL chapter! And as I wrap up my thoughts on my journeys through Ireland, I find myself missing it again, longing for the rain slicked streets in Dublin, the perilous country roads, the rainbows springing up around castle ruins, and talking with boys in bars. Maybe one day, after my book is published, I’ll have the opportunity to go again. One, twice, three times – with some places, it’s never enough.
Jolene's Life in Focus 
I think you’re supposed to click your heels three times and repeat “There’s no place like Ireland.”
Perhaps you can work escaping in a hot air ballon into the last chapter of your book. It’s exciting stuff.
Maybe that’s the trick!
I am thrilled to see you back online, Prospero. Your comments were missed. 🙂
Temple bar, great place and good memories! 🙂
Oh yes! Hard to have a bad memory there. Depending on your night, you might not have many at all though. Love Dublin!
Take a deep breath and dive in. I know you can do it, and I can’t wait to enjoy the outcome! I feel the same way about India. I’m not sure I’ll ever be tired of returning. Ireland is a place I need to go back too as well… some of us are just bigger wanderers than others. Neither is better or worse, but wanderers don’t settle easily.
I try to stay settled, but that wandering spirit is hard to contain!
Although I didn’t make much headway on the last chapter that Saturday, I did a lot with it over the week. It’s really starting to take shape…finish line is so close… 🙂
So excited for you! I remember seeing that line… it’s so exhilarating! Now, I’m excited about edits; it’s just making the time that holds me back. :-p
Search your heart and soul, Jolene… there must be a profound reason why you are attracted to Ireland. It’s never too many times — to do the things you enjoy and love. Looking forward to reading your book. 🙂
Thanks, Emily. 🙂 I often feel that way too – there must be a reason.
You make me want to pack my bags. A writer’s retreat sounds wonderful! How is that working for you?
I love writer’s retreats – especially if the goal is to share my work at the end of the day. Reading in front of other talented writers always challenges me to search for a better word or expression. I got a lot done that day (mostly on edits, not my last chapter though)!
Sounds like an excellent remedy for procrastination.