Will be scarce for a few weeks now. I am in Eureka Springs, Arkansas of all places, blessed to be a resident at The Writers’ Colony at Dairy Hollow. Came with much to accomplish: work on a novel; write first drafts of two additional children’s stories that are part of a series I have begun; come up with key words for future promotion of re-issue of This Jewish Life later this year.
Writers’/artists’ colonies abound nation- and worldwide, havens for creative folks to get away and get down to business, graced with stretches of uninterrupted time to devote themselves to projects at hand.
WCDH accepts applications year-round from emerging and established writers, artists and composers. Admissions are on a rolling basis. Formerly a nationally acclaimed B&B run by Ned Shank and his wife, children’s picture book and cookbook author Crescent Dragonwagon, WCDH was established by them in June of 2000 as a writers’ colony. Tragically, Mr. Shank died in a traffic accident in November of that same year. Ms. Dragonwagon (who also happens to be Charlotte Zolotow’s daughter) is no longer associated with the Colony but her spirit and commitment to fresh and good food beautifully prepared, continue to sustain residents.
So I bid you farewell for now. Writers and other creative brethren and sistren, check WCDH out. Others seeking a vacation spot, Eureka Springs has much to offer. Toodleloo!
It sounds great, and I’ve actually been to Eureka Springs, so I know that it is indeed beautiful. How lovely to have time to work in an inspiring and supportive environment! Carry on, and we will look forward to reading the fruits of your labor.
Leah
Thank you, Leah. My first week has passed in a flash. It’s been wonderful, enthralling, scary and challenging to have this gift of time.
Woke up this morning with a thought for an essay and was able to just do it — follow a tenuous thread all the way to completion and then submit it to an Op-Ed page. If it makes it I’ll let you know. Bu the real prize was simply being able to wander and follow my curiosity and play.
How to get more writers aware of WCDH? It’s a terrific place: great locale, peaceful, wonderful food and staff, interesting residents and conversation at dinner. WCDH also welcomes applications from children’s writers and food and cookbook writers, a rarity in the artists’ colony world. Spread the word.
Now back to the page for Be well, all.
Debra–
I have finally gotten all my “rat killin'” done since my return to Ft. Worth, and am able to sit down and write. I wanted to thank you for being such a friend and support during my stay in Eureka Springs. I will always remember the suppers and great conversations with the three of you ladies. Thank you. I consider you a friend now, and wish you the best in your writing projects. All the best, David Davis
Well, it seems to have been awhile since you visited Dairy Hollow–me too. I am longing for those hills and dear faces.
OH yes. Peace and beauty.