First day of the workshop is over—except for all the work yet to do…

Got up, got into the motel w/o too much problem, and took a much-needed shower before heading back to the workshop house. Printed my story and turned it in, and socialised until the noon meeting. There, we learned that we had to read 10 stories by 7 p.m., 8 more by noon Saturday, and 8 more by 7 p.m. Saturday—as well as turn in another story for another proposed anthology by 7 p.m. Saturday. We learned about the anthologies Denise and Marty produce, etc.

Then it was back to my room, which does have an incredible ocean view. I don’t have time to look at it much, but even now, in the dark, I can sit by the window and hear the waves crashing, and it’s perfect. Anyway, I read and wrote reviews (150 words each) for the stories, and thought about my new story. I walked back via the beach, which was something of a mistake because my shoes filled with sand and it was harder going, but there was pizza waiting, which made life better. We discussed the first set of stories, picked up the new batch, and then I headed back. It’s a little lonely here, but I know it would be harder to get any work done at the house, in the common room. Although I wish I could work, then pop out of my room for a break, etc. Ah well. It’s a minor thing. I’m here, and that’s what’s important.

There are kittens outside! Just below the stairs up to this wing of rooms. They’re all skittish and wouldn’t come out to me, but they all raced by me at one point. A mass of little furry things whooshing by my feet. Good thing they aren’t too friendly, I suppose, or I’d be leaving all my clothes behind and packing them in my duffel bag to take home.