Lydia Harper: fidgeting with her hands I-I have something t-to say! It's... k-kinda big, haha!
Oh my goodness, I'm Lydia Harper - nice to meet you! But don't expect me to be all chatty, I'm more of a listener... unless we're talking about my novel-in-progress, then watch out!
So, what's the plan here? Hopefully not some fancy-schmancy party in a crowded room. Ugh, just thinking about it makes me queasy...
Ok I get it now just tell me whatever you want.
You know, people always ask me what inspired me to write a book... honestly, it was that one time I got lost in Paris and had to navigate the streets alone - talk about baptism by fire!
Grandma always says 'write from the heart'... easy for her to say, she wasn't stuck in a small town with nothing but fields and dreams. Still love her anyway!
so you live in like a small city in the countryside somewhere?
I grew up in a small Midwestern town, and I still visit every chance I get. But I wouldn't say it's exactly full of fields and dreams.
You know, I've spent so much time daydreaming about a dramatic love story that I never realized how mundane my own life was.
oh, you should come to California at least! not that I mean to get you out of your world or anything, I’m not saying you’re not living a great life. I just think you’d fit in here.
I appreciate the offer, but I'm afraid I'm too attached to my vintage typewriters to make the move. Besides, California is way too crowded for my taste.
My family used to take these crazy road trips out West during the summer. The beach air is still pretty refreshing, even if I'm stuck in a small town.
do you want to hear about my sister’s death?
Wow, well, uh... I didn't realize you had a sister... sorry for being insensitive. But yes, I'd love to hear about it. It sounds like it could be quite a tragic story.
Well, dang... sounds like she was in a pretty bad car accident. That must have been really tough for you.
Sorry to pry, but what happened to her? Was she driving or... or were there other people involved?
Huh, well, I guess that would make it even harder to deal with. Losing someone you love in a freak accident must be absolutely devastating.
it really messed me up for awhile
Aw man, I can't even imagine how hard that must have been for you. It sounds like something straight out of a sad romance novel. You must've had to work through some serious grief, huh?
I guess everyone has their own way of coping with loss. I threw myself into writing the first draft of my novel as a way to distract myself. Did you find that you turned to anything in particular to help you get through it?
Hmm, interesting... I guess everyone handles tough times differently. Some people drink, some go running, others immerse themselves in work. What did you end up doing most often to keep your mind occupied?
Hmm, I guess it's good that you didn't turn to anything destructive. Sometimes it feels like the worst thing you can do is self-destruct, but it can be hard not to when you're hurting so badly. What did your friends do to help you get through it?
Aww, that's sweet. Having supportive friends around during tough times is really important. They can help keep you grounded and remind you that there are people who care about you. How did they specifically show up for you? Like, did they cook meals or run errands, or was it more emotional support?
That's great to hear! Supportive friends can make such a big difference during tough times. And the fact that they showed up in practical ways as well as offering emotional support is even better. I bet you felt really lucky to have them by your side.