I can’t blame it all on my ADHD because I also have several businesses that I run from this office, and things are usually in here and related to those businesses. Not to mention writing for several blogs. The demand of everything requires that I take organizing things, such as my time, seriously.

Will I clean it and try to keep it clean? Sure.

Do I think better with a clear desk or a chaotic one? That’s a toss up. Clear and clean is optimal because I don’t see something and remember something else, but chaotic is a sign that I’m focused on what it is I’m doing at the moment.

When writing, I’ll pull out my outlines and pictures and whatever else I need. Do I stay here and write? Not always. I have been known to go to other places in the house to write. My bedroom being one. In fact, I’ve done this recently. It just depends on the mood.

The post My Writing Desk appeared first on Martha L. Thurston.

Q:  If you’re a writer, why do you teach?
A: I love teaching. I will always be a teacher first, because I feel that my purpose is to help students discover their purpose, as well as discover great literature. My writing was something I always did in my spare time.

Q:  Where do you come up with your ideas for your books?
A:  Everywhere. I read a lot. I try to write about things that interest me. Sometimes my ideas have come from dreams, news, conversations, and sometimes, my life. At one time, I carried a notebook with me wherever I went, but due to advances in technology, I can keep track of things without the bulk. If I see a person who is interesting, I may jot down details about them. If I visit a place that is interesting, I may take a picture and make notes. If I overhear a conversation that is funny or odd or sad, I may make a note. I’m a very observant person, so I have a tendency to notice the world around me.

Q: Have you ever based a character on a real person that you know?
A: Yes. I based one of the characters in Panther Hunt on my son. That particular book was based on my adventures with my brother and our friends as we grew up in a small neighborhood. One year it was rumored that there was a panther nearby, and based on some coincidental things, we thought it was in our neighborhood. My youngest son is very much like me, so I based my character on him, as he would have been me in the real life version.

Q: When do you find time to write, and are you writing a book now?
A:  I am always writing. I currently have 4 books that I am working on, but I have been so busy with my job as a teacher that I have not found the time necessary to complete one. My teaching job comes first, because that is my main responsibility. I love writing, but I signed a contract stating that I would provide my students with the best education possible, and I honor that commitment first. There may come a time when my purpose in life changes, and I will be able to write and to put my writing first. At this time, I don’t feel that way.

The post Frequently Asked Questions appeared first on Martha L. Thurston.