Decorative © Photo by Leah Ranada Ever seen something beautiful but useless? Pictured above is a drinking fountain station in a Las Vegas casino / hotel. Gold plated against marble wall with some gold-button accessories. Because it was a hot day, I went to fill my water bottle (how often do you get to drink… Continue reading Writing Desk
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Writing Desk
Adrift © Photo by Leah Ranada In a previous post, there is a mention of my tendency to "drift off." I second-guessed myself after that post. For many, many years, I was known to be a daydreamer, but it seems that reputation outlived reality. In fact, I can't ever remember the last time I daydreamt.… Continue reading Writing Desk
Writing Desk
People Watching © Photo by Leah Ranada I've often read about people watching and it sounds like a great exercise for a writer. I can imagine the benefits—insights into the specifics of human traits, from body language to speech patterns, from way of dress to interpersonal interactions. There's plenty of opportunities to do it too,… Continue reading Writing Desk
Writing Desk
Taking a Breather © Photo by Leah Ranada I write this during a busy period: editing submissions for an anthology, revising and pitching my own manuscript, preparing for upcoming consults. All of these outside my day job. There is the urge to complain, but I shouldn't. There have been a time, not so long ago,… Continue reading Writing Desk
Writing Desk
Summer Solstice © Photo by Leah Ranada I have mixed feelings about summer. On one hand, it's pleasant to be able to go out and about without being bundled up with layers of wool and polyester. On another hand, outdoors and nature beckon, enticingly so, delaying writing projects. Of course, one can write al fresco,… Continue reading Writing Desk
Writing Desk
"Departing" Stores © Photo by Leah Ranada I wrote a story once where many of the scenes took place in a shopping mall. Almeda Plaza was published on Eastlit in July 2016. It was a tricky story to write; I was revealing a very complex adult situation from the point-of-view of a child. It would… Continue reading Writing Desk
Writing Desk
Fresh Harvest © Photo by Leah Ranada. I am in that lovely phase of contemplating the start of a new project. A short story, maybe two. There's a flock of ideas and the accompanying excitement, but I know now not to commit them to the page too early. I'll permit a few messy scribbles in… Continue reading Writing Desk
Writing Desk
History © Photo by Leah Ranada It being the eve of Philippine Independence Day, I made myself adobo, the beloved national dish, and think of how my perception of the holiday has evolved over the years. For most of my childhood, it's just a date drilled into our brains at school. I later learned how… Continue reading Writing Desk
Writing Desk
A Café in New York © Photo by Leah Ranada Over the years, I have written in many coffeehouses. There's a few lovely places in my neighbourhood, many in adjacent cities where I used to live. When I'm travelling, I seek out the local spots. By this time, I know what to look out for.… Continue reading Writing Desk
Writing Desk
Possibilities © Photo by Leah Ranada Proud to announce that I recently finished writing my second novel. It's time to find it a home, find the people who will see what was once just in my mind's eye. It's much different from Cine Star--that's all I can say for now. I'll cherish this time, when… Continue reading Writing Desk
Leah Ranada 