Here’s a snapshot of my desk, taken a few months ago. At the time, I was balancing many projects, including a very large set of page proofs (the massive pile of paper in the background). In my professional life, nothing gets me more excited than reaching for a pen (if I am proofreading) or turning on a Word file’s Track Changes tool (if I am copyediting) to begin a project.

Though editing can be perceived as a solitary profession (and it is at times), I love entering the world of ideas and exploring a new topic. Toss in a reasonable deadline, a style book, and a cup of tea, and I am one happy person. Call me crazy—or an editor.