Some weeks the things that don't pay or aren't urgent rise to the top of my list becuase they're a fun distraction and other times they totally fall away (like how I've only posted here one other time this week -- but I have a great interview coming tomorrow!) My novel is one of those things that keeps going away but this weekend I'm going back on my writing retreat so I hope to power through and work on a new draft. I was feeling lost trying to get back into it this summer so based on my friend Molly's suggestion I'm typing it anew and it's kind of scary how different the book is so far. Anyway I am so grateful for this opportunity to spend a few days just focused on that and not work or childcare or errands. Getting to see my friends--two of whom don't live in Chicago anymore--is just a wonderful bonus that comes with.

Before then tonight you can catch me at Story Club in Chicago at the Holiday Club on the subject of "Feast." The location is special to me because it's near my first apartment. When Steve and I first started dating long distance he'd come over and we'd go to dinner there. Anyway if you live in the area or need something to do tonight I hope you come check out the show!

Here are some of the pieces I've published in the last week:

Men's Health: Who's Really at Fault in the Airplane Reclining Seat Wars?

Mom.me: 12 Foolproof Ways to Trick Your Kids Into Talking to You

8 Ways a Son is Like a High School Boyfriend

The University of Chicago Urban Research Review: Form Follows Function: Finding the Role of Race in Architecture and Literature

The Urban Village - Continuing the Chicago Tradition of Urban Sociology

The Science of Learning: Chicago Families Provide Insight into How Children's Minds Work

Fast Company: 15 Apps That Make Freelancer Life Easier