I’m deep in stories—yes, working on two at the moment. I have to divide my day between the Fireman and Dream projects. In a month or so, you’ll understand. But keeping the stories straight and the tones unique is fun. On top of juggling those two projects, I’m reading through Viking stories and trying to dream up one of my own. All I need is something super short. Any suggestions?

That’s not the question I have for you today. Someone did something today that I realized grated on every last nerve. She cleared her throat. Not that polite, short sound most folks make, but one that sounded like something a creature from the deep might make before it opened its big mouth and swallowed a man whole.

So it got me thinking…

Think about annoying tics. You must have a friend or family member who has one. You try to be polite and ignore it, but don’t you imagine someday snapping and reaching out to twist a scrawny neck? What is that tic that drives you crazy?