Slice of Life 22: On Writing and Renovation

By Janice Ewing

The quote of the day on the Two Writing Teachers’ site: “Start writing, no matter what. The water does not flow until the faucet is turned on.” – Louis L’Amour

I recognize this as a metaphor, but it has some literal connections for me as well. My husband and I recently had two bathrooms renovated. I had looked forward to choosing colors, vanities, and accessories, and thought the rest would be left to the experts. It did not turn out that way, entirely. We have an old house and apparently were living with lots of old problems, which had remained peacefully behind the scenes for years.   It seems that uneven floorboards, a gradually sinking tub, and a myriad of other imperfections can escape notice until tile is removed, floors torn up and all is laid bare. That’s when the project became less about appearance and more about parts and construction. I found myself, of necessity, developing an understanding of the language of the trade. On trips to Lowe’s, my most frequented aisle switched from the fun ‘Fashion Bath” to the more basic “Plumbing Supplies.” I guess it’s a metaphor after all. Although some of the ‘drafts’ were a bit challenging, and lots of revision was needed, I did get to choose colors, vanities, and accessories, and we’re happy with the final ‘copies’.

* This “Slice of Life” post is part of a larger blog series, hosted by the blog site, Two Writing Teachers: A Meeting Place for a World of Reflective Writers.

Janice Ewing is an adjunct for Cabrini College and a co-director for the Pennsylvania Writing & Literature Project. Janice co-facilitates PAWLP’s “Continuity Days” and this blog. She is an avid reader and writer, and especially enjoys writing poems.