The Coffeehouse Experience: Part 3 & An Update
Today I visited Denim Coffee at the Quarry on the beautiful and historic campus of Dickinson College in Carlisle, PA, my hometown. This coffeehouse has been on my list of places to visit for a little while now and I’m so glad that I was able to pop in.
As I mentioned in an earlier post, Denim Coffee has two locations in Carlisle. I’ve been to the downtown location at 1 S. Hanover Street a few times and have written about my experience there. Before stepping into the campus location, I noticed outdoor seating. Noted. I opted to go inside though because it was just a bit too windy and chilly for me.
I felt a relaxed vibe upon entering. The staff was friendly and made my usual – chai tea latte with almond milk – in no time flat. I scanned the café and noticed they had upstairs seating, so I opted to go up as there were a few people downstairs and it was a little noisy.
I saw comfy seats, lots of tables, lots of light and lots of posters announcing past and future events. Imagine a meeting/recreational area in a college dorm and that’s the vibe you’ll find here. Enveloped by quiet and coolness, I settled in a corner spot. I would’ve liked to have sat by one of the bay windows, but alas, that spot was taken. Only one other person and I were there, so I got a good bit of writing done.
In general, I would recommend this place to get writing done but only on school breaks and over the summer. As the café is located in the middle of campus and is patronized by students and faculty alike throughout the school year, I can well imagine that it gets quite crowded and noisy. Not exactly the best environment in which to write. It is early June as I write this, so my timing was perfect.
My Writerly Grade: A+ (summer only)
So what have I been working on during all these coffeehouse visits and retreats? My third book…still. To be honest, I thought I’d be further along by now, but life has gotten in the way and the motivation has been elusive. I’m trying to give myself grace though. I am hopeful that by summer’s end, I will have the first draft done.
Regarding my second book, Writing Through Your Grief, it is still in the production pipeline. I recently sent my publisher updated photos of me to use, but other than that, I haven’t been asked to do much else. That concerns me a bit, but I am trying to remain calm. This journey is new to me – the traditional publishing route – so I have no point of reference. I am trying to build up my exposure and community, but this process takes up so much of my time and energy. If only I could just focus on writing. Oh, the woes of a writer.
Where are you in your writing process? How are you marketing and building community? I’m always curious about this, and frankly, I need some tips, so if there’s something that’s worked for you and you’re willing to share, please clue me in. You can do that by emailing lori@loriapeterswriter.com.
Until next time, Write & Rise!
