I walked into a local bookstore recently in Seattle. It was a treasure. Creaky uneven wood floors, stacks of books on tables designating manager favorites, rows and rows of hardcovers in every possible category, and a slew of coffee drinking locals reading at mismatched tables and chairs. I do love being surrounded by the literarily inclined. Having written a book myself, I’m amazed at how many people have written books, too. Surrounded by all the authors’ works, I’m reminded that I’m so unimportant in the publishing world. I’m not fishing for compliments here– it’s true and that’s fine. I’m loving my blog and I didn’t exactly have a bestseller on my hands… just an amusing based-on-experience but greatly embellished fictional tale that I’m glad made it into a softcover bound accomplishment. If you’re a fan of my writing and you haven’t read my book yet, here’s the link on Amazon to pick up your copy today! Makes a great holiday gift and thanks in advance for the support. https://www.amazon.com/JENS-LITTLE-BLACK-BOOK-Wrapped/dp/B0991J75KZ
Anyway, in Seattle I remember thinking that when I was writing my book, it felt so new (for me) and I was about to share my new concept with the world. I’m one to quickly assess market trends and if it’s something I like or think is a good idea (microblading for brows, suede handbags for fall, maxing out my 401k in January) I’m an early adopter and I’m happy to share my research and findings. Also I’m not known to be the procrastinating type. I have the kind of anxiety that prevents the “cram for a test” feelings by strongly encouraging me to take action way before deadlines approach. But who knew that when I’m experiencing writer’s block, I can just blame the furniture. Yeah, apparently it’s a thing…
Also I’ve learned that in 2024, we are being redirected to save our personal drama for business hours instead of after hours or on weekends. This is a hilarious one. Think of how much fun weekends would be again! Instead of wasting our free time being upset about life events or the rent going up or a recent breakup, car accident, trip or fall, our pal Cali suggests that we save those feeling of despair for the office. She could be onto something…
Then we have a genius foodie guiding us toward our dream home. This artist slash sushi chef has reimagined living in a salmon house… or I should just say imagined. Wouldn’t it be so great to give these as minis for Hanukkah? Here nieces and nephew, enjoy your sushi house. They would go totally crazy! I’m pretty sure I could polish off a three bedroom, four bath split level. You?
And if you can’t afford the whole salmon house, what about just a bed? Gives new meaning to midnight snack. And I bet the warm rice is comfy too! I think personally I could go for an industrial fan as a headboard. Goodbye hot flashes! Hello morning windblown hair!
Buying designer goods can be a fun experience. At most of the luxury stores they offer complimentary beverages– coffee, sparkling water and even champagne, private showing rooms, and in some cases a ride home with a driver. Very swanky. So if all of the fanfare were taken away and you could literally buy a designer bag from a subway vending machine, would you? Maybe? I know… but it would have to be in Paris.
Remember the movie with Meryl Streep and Steve Martin called It’s Complicated? Meryl’s character Jane is dating Steve’s character Adam. They spend a date at her bakery after hours making chocolate croissants from scratch. It’s such a good scene that you can practically smell how delicious those pastries would taste as you watch their chemistry on screen. Ugh- I love that movie! So why aren’t night bakeries a thing?? Who doesn’t love fresh baked bread at midnight?? I know my cousin Ron would be alllll over this one! I’m with you, Ron.
Sometimes sharing your great idea only gets you in trouble. Like teaching friends how to count cards in Vegas or extreme couponing so that the store owes you money. Yeah. So occasionally it’s best to just smile and not comment and keep your two cents to yourself. Once people think you know something, you have responsibilities and a title. You get to decide when to contribute and when to abstain. Choose wisely my friends before you decide to share your great idea.
jenslittleblackbook.com 