Nothing says ‘spring break’ quite like packing a bag and escaping to a tropical locale. Or, as I’ve done the last few years, scrolling social media to watch other people live my beachy dreams.
This year, I’m driving thirty minutes away for a solo writing retreat, Texas style. There won’t be palm trees or coconut cups filled with slushie liquor, but there will be a pool! There may even be a hiking trail. But most importantly, there will be a hotel room fit for hours of staring at a computer screen.
Here are five things I, an elder millennial who takes all my fashion cues from TikTok, am packing for my trip:
- An aesthetically pleasing sundress for the (1) selfie I will take. Nothing says spring quite like ditching the Uggs and jeans for the first time in months.
- A cute hat to shield me from the sun and hide my ‘on a deadline’ hair. Bucket hats are back, friends. For those who remember when they were popular the first time, join me in celebrating—or perhaps lamenting—this full circle fashion moment.
- Comfortable clothes for all the actual writing. I’m a walking advertisement for the Snuggie. If you haven’t experienced the pleasure of a blanket with sleeves, I highly recommend treating yourself.
- The same candles I always burn while drafting because I am superstitious. I’ve trained myself to be more productive with certain candles at my deskside. Or perhaps the candles have trained me. Regardless, scent is a powerful thing. It’s why romance writers spend so much time telling you how everyone smells in their books.
- A few inspiring books to get the juices flowing. In case of writer’s block, or writer’s stall, break out some old favorites to remind you why you’re writing in the first place. For the love of books.
Want to see inside my bag? Find me @livyhartromance!
As the black sheep of the family, choreographer Cassidy Bliss vowed she’d do anything to get home in time to help with her sister’s wedding and avoid family disappointment…again. She just never expected “anything” would involve sharing the last rental car with the jerk who cut her off in line at the airport this morning. But horrible times apparently call for here-goes-nothing measures.
Driving across the country with Luke “life can be solved with a spreadsheet” Carlisle must be a penance for some crime she committed. Because the second he opens his mouth, it’s all she can do to not maim him with her carry-on. But somewhere between his surprisingly thoughtful snack sharing and his uncanny ability to see straight to the core of her, her feelings go unchecked.
Suddenly, their crackling chemistry is just one more thing they have to navigate—and it couldn’t come at a worse time. But after a lifetime of letting the expectations and needs of others drive her life, Cassidy must decide if she’s ready to take the wheel once and for all.
Romance author Livy Hart has two children, too many Funko Pops, and a husband who’s workin’ on the railroad—literally. She currently resides in Dallas, Texas where she enjoys long walks on the concrete and people-watching at malls so big they have their own zip codes. When she’s not writing, she’s bickering with her KitchenAid stand mixer, road-tripping to her sleepy Florida hometown, or sipping espresso on her Nonna’s porch.
You can follow Livy on Instagram, Twitter, and check out her website to stay up to date on the latest news!
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