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An excellent read, James. Thank you! I never understood drivers who need to risk their lives by weaving in and out of traffic.

I especially liked what you wrote in the opening in regards to writing: “Where to, this time?” I know exactly where you’re coming from. I often sit down with a vague idea and then let the story take its own course. Sounds like you take the same approach! And when those ideas come in the middle of the night...nothing like it. Better write em down quick before they’re gone! Can’t tell you how many times I’ve forgotten to, or said, “Eh, I’ll remember.” I never do. 😄

Great post!

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You are so right re writing down the ideas that come in the night. They can slip away so easily.

I don't remember having an idea return after forgetting it. Thank you, so much, Justin!

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There is a story everywhere, James, isn't there! I really loved being in the passenger seat along with you on this road trip. This part was very nice: "Just after sunrise the low sun cast shadows through a stand of Eucalyptus trees lining the freeway onto the roadway. It presented a strobe effect to my eyes." I have seen that effect on hwy 99 between Modesto and Bakersfield. Also a perfect metaphor: "Two beautiful muscle cars, fueled by testosterone." I have never seen the Yolo causeway area, but after your description, I would sure like to. Great post.

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Good morning, Sharron. Thank you, very much! Glad you enjoyed the trip. : ) I much appreciate your comments, as always.

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I thoroughly enjoyed your musings here James. I am always learning something new from you.

I can relate to the cigar and the blank page.

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Thank you, Jim! I wasn't sure where this post was going to end up. : ) Glad you are okay!

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Sometimes great ideas come at the least expected times!

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Yes, indeed. Thank you very much, Jim!

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I hear you brother. The middle of the night when the unmanifested finds its way into the light is one of the most precious and joyous aspects of the creative process. Put it on the back burner, so to speak, and let it percolate on its own. Works for me, also. All the best!

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Me, too! I have been brewing up a chapter for a couple of days and got stuck. Woke up in the middle of the night singing Blackbird, an old Beatles song. God knows where that came from!? But it went right into my story. It belonged there. Victor, James Ron and Sharron having way too much fun and getting too little sleep.

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Too little sleep, and now I'm going to be humming Blackbird - "singing in the dead of night" - for a while. Looking forward to your Blackbird story. Thank you!

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Hello Victor. So glad you liked this. Yes, ideas that come in the night are special. Take care!

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