Writing at the Chateau

Warm sun, fresh baguettes, strong cheese, the smell of roses and herbs--Provence is the lavender capital of the world--this is an idyllic setting for writing.


We had a glorious week.

Lots of images on the pages, powerful narratives and essays, aha moments. Camaraderie, connections, creativity. Projects launched.

Next summer join me in France's Loire Valley. Or in February come write with me in Thailand.

What. . . besides your luggage . . . do you carry with you when you travel? What do you leave home that you wish you had? What do you take home? Leave behind in the country you've visited?

I look forward to writing with you.

Writing and teaching in Provence--just barely

Friends, I have to pinch myself. Here I am in France--beautiful Provence--teaching what I love to a group of wonderful people, writers, whom I've come to know and appreciate quickly; it doesn't get much better.

But were it not for my Congressman, and a fast car, I would be at home right now, cooling my heels in total frustration. Let me explain: it was my passport...I had applied to have it renewed months ago and--okay, you know what I'm going to say next, don't you. I put the whole scary story in this column. Enjoy.

If you think you'll want to travel any time in the near future, even if you have nothing planned--please, please start the process NOW.