ten minutes a day

having finished the most fabulous novel yesterday i am more committed than ever to write, write, write. my 'Writers Workbook' informs me that i must practice writing for at least 10 minutes a day on any subject i choose.

the fabulous novel i just finished is 'the impressionist' by hari kunzu. that, along with 'the shadow of the wind' and 'maps for lost lovers' form my top three favourite reads for this year.

one of the most fascinating settings in 'the impressionist' was a turn of the century zenana in British india. absolutely the stuff of dreams, fantasy and fiction. his imagination, the clarity of detail and the loose foundation in fact are a powerful combination.

i did some christmas chores today - cards, present lists, lists for the little thing's first birthday. it's going to be a busy christmas with the thing's party then nine people for lunch the next day but i'm sure it will be fun.

onto more family matters and i am definitely feeling pregnant. today saw me eating pickled onions straight from the jar. i know that should disgust me, but, well ... yum!

and i must work out the approximate due date as i think i will have to cancel our attendance at what had promised to be the smartest wedding of the year.