The Chaos of Writing with a Dog Named Cat

Writing sounds like a dream job: conjuring magical worlds, weaving mysterious plots, and creating unforgettable characters. But add a dog named Cat who thinks she’s the boss, and you get a daily adventure that’s part comedy, part chaos, and all heart. As the author of the Morrigan's Children Series, I’ve learned that writing isn’t just about putting words on a page. It’s about juggling life’s surprises with humor and patience, especially when your family is as unique as your stories.

You might think naming a dog Cat is a joke, but it’s a constant reminder that life rarely follows the script. Catawba is a rescue named for the place she was found, Catawba College in NC. She has a personality as big as the worlds I create and as deep as the mysteries within them. She’s part mischief, part guardian, and all predictable. That's right, I said predictable. If there is a snack bag open, she's there. If there's a bath that needs taking, she's not. Interruptions are always guaranteed. Just when I'm deep in a scene, she decides it's time for a walk, or a snack, or maybe a walk and a snack.

Sometimes watching her inspires sparks of ideas for my stories, character traits, or situations. For example, the majority of Jack's interactions with Otter in Fire Season came directly from conversations I've had with Catawba. Despite the chaos, having Cat nearby offers comfort and a reminder to take breaks, drink water, and get snacks often.

Balancing Cat’s needs with writing deadlines means embracing the unexpected, but sometimes, the best stories come from moments when her plans push my plans sideways. When I sit down to write, I might have a clear vision of what I want to accomplish, whether it's completing a chapter, refining dialogue, or developing character arcs. Cat has her own agenda, which often includes demanding attention at the most inopportune times. In these moments, I find myself torn between my commitment to my writing and the undeniable charm of her antics.

Yet, it is precisely in these instances of disruption that some of my most compelling ideas emerge. The unexpected moments when Cat's needs push my plans sideways can lead to creative breakthroughs. For instance, her playful interruptions might inspire a new character or a plot twist that I had not previously considered. The way she interacts with her environment, her curious nature, and even her occasional mischief can spark a cascade of thoughts, leading to richer narratives and deeper emotional connections in my writing.

Moreover, these experiences remind me of the importance of embracing life’s unpredictability. As a writer, being open to the unexpected not only enhances my storytelling but also enriches my personal life. Each time I pause my writing to engage with Cat, I am reminded of the joy found in simple moments. It is a balance that teaches me to appreciate both the discipline of my craft and the spontaneity of life.

While balancing Cat’s needs with my writing deadlines can sometimes feel like a juggling act, it ultimately fosters a creative environment where the best stories can flourish. The intersections of her playful spirit and my structured writing routine create a unique energy, allowing for a narrative that is both engaging and reflective of the unpredictable nature of life itself. Embracing these moments of chaos often leads to the most profound and memorable storytelling experiences, reminding me that inspiration can come from the most unexpected sources.