I am definitely ready for this week to be over.  Returning to work after vacation is always an adjustment but this week, which started off with “armed shooter” training on Monday, has been especially challenging.

I’m thinking some puppy therapy is in order.

I still have an work-inbox full of messages, requests, meetings, and assorted odds’n’ends to work though before the week is done.  It’s amazing how much can build up in a single week.

Fortunately, none of it is earth-shattering.  My new evaluation criteria is “will anyone die if I don’t do this?” – it’s a wonderful way to weed out the trivial from the important.  Though my co-workers may see things a little differently.

My home-inbox is full as well, but that is a completely different kettle of fish.  It’s full of new books I brought back from New York, additional books that arrived from the library, and a list of movies and shows that I “just have to see!”.

At least I won’t be at a loss for something to do this weekend.

One of the first things on my ToDo list will be giving today’s story prompt and random words a try once I get home from the office.

Care to join me?

For those of you working away on a story (whether a first draft or a polished version on its way to publication), if you’re not feeling random, we’d love to hear a bit – whether it’s a scene, a paragraph, or even a phrase that you are especially pleased with and would like to share.

If you don’t have a story in progress, or just want to work on something new, I hope today’s story prompt and/or random words will catch your creative fancy.

Ready?

What if: “Your character is the finalist in a cooking contest?”

Feel free to interpret the “What if” any way you choose and include any (or all) of the following random words:

bittersweet      costume        regret            lemon

genetic             lark                marble          delightful

gloves               brick             challenge      flirtation

overboard        opponent     mustache      fistfight

I look forward to seeing your stories in the comments.  If you’re not feeling in the writing mood today, or don’t have time, feel free to post suggestions you might have for future “what-if” prompts.  Ideas are always welcome.

Happy writing to all!