write in cafes and diners and coffee shops...

I have been trying out different local coffee places to try and fine a place I could spend some time writing, reading and people watching. What I have found is that big chains like Starbucks engineer their shops to get you in, get your money and get you out. Have you ever noticed how loud and annoying their music is?

In my neighborhood coffeeshops and diners, people watching is pretty boring. Everyone looks the same. I sat in a local muffin shop one day. Everyone was white and over 50. Boring! To find a little (and I mean little) local color I have to go across town to the old downtown area.

This is working out quite well. I carry a Moleskine notebook and a pencil in my purse. When I am alone in a cafe or restaurant I pull out my Moleskine and start writing observations and making drawings.

It makes me feel more connected and I don’t get bored.

“I never travel without my dairy. One should always. have something sensational to read”. -Oscar Wilde

I am not a writer, I am not a poet, I am not an artist, I am not a singer, I am not an actor…

I am a poor speller. I want to get out in the world a little bit more before I died. I want to write down things I remember.

I bought a wonderful note book that was made in Japan. I find that stationary and pens that are made in Japan to be the best quality and delightful to use.

I will mostly be writing with a pencil because of the poor spelling thing.