This past month I have been so caught up in “community” and writerly activities that I actually forgot to post on my day. I was at the end of a week as author-in-residence at Yellow Springs Elementary School, where I worked with three fifth grade classes. Some of the writing the students produced in that one week is amazing, and I am touched by the letters they wrote me. Here are a few comments: “You helped me to pursue my happiness,” from Elizabeth; “Your saying specific is terrific improved the details in my story,” from Ben; “I really enjoyed the four days of writing,” from Michael; “Ever since you came, I have been writing,” from Alex; “You helped me discover new word choices for my stories. Like you said, specific is terrific,” from Kevin; and “I enjoyed writing about my querencia. I read that piece of writing to my grandma and she had tears in her eyes,” from Gabby.
Then, before there was time to rest, I was off to Louisville, Kentucky to speak on an alumni panel at the Spalding University MFA residency, along with fellow spud Stephanie Stuve-Bodeen. It was fun to have a chance to catch up with Stephanie and some other old friends from Spalding. (Wish I had a photo to post, but we were so busy, it didn't cross my mind until too late.)
But I am an introvert at heart and am longing for the seclusion of my writing cabin and a chance to get back to my novel-in-progress, which is where you’ll find me this week.
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7 comments:
What a gift you are, Edie. You have stirred many communities with your writing and now it is time to go home and stir your muse. I love the student quotes. I wish I had been one of them, receiving your wisdom!
I know how easy it is to get caught up in the side activities and lose sight of why we do this in the first place. Have a good week.
Thanks, Lauren and Sue!
Edie, those kids are going to quote you their whole lives! Isn't it thrilling to watch the desire to write ignite in others? I love the response from Gabby--you are moving others to move others. But now you can be still. Won't that be nice?
Was so great to see you! Sorry I didn't get a chance to say goodbye, I was on the 5am shuttle Sat. morn... Apparently our panel was called the best ever, so yay us!
I hope the feedback from your students inspires you as you return to work this week!
Great read thannk you
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