How do we do it?

I've always been fascinated about writers' schedules. They don't punch in at the office, aren't paid by the hour, and unless there's a deadline, can keep their own time. I know if I've carved out a writing day- I procrastinate. Browsing ebay, checking mail, paying bills, emptying the dishwasher- it doesn't take much to distract me from sitting in front of the computer. Once I'm there though, I enjoy the rhythm of writing- the sound my fingers make typing, the words filling up the page, the uninterrupted thoughts.

For me, it's a mid-morning to early afternoon block- regulated by the school day- old habits don't change easily. And lately, those days are more infrequent. I carry a notebook to record random thoughts- but it's not the same as writing on the screen. No legal pads for me.

I admire those that can write from 4 am- 6 am, then get kids off to school, exercise, and focus some more until school lets out, resuming writing again after dinner. Children of course look at a book and think it appears magically. They probably don't see writing as work -- and few know it's a job. They like to know where a writer gets ideas, and are fascinated how writers might take something from their own lives and turn it into a story. Adults like to know - how do you do it? When did you find the time? What is your work day? Do you write only on the computer? Or in long hand on scraps of paper? Or fill notebook after notebook? Hearing how we "do it" can be inspirational. I'd like to know!