Hard-Earned Truths

Okay. I survived the Algonkian Workshop experience. Wow. I learned so much.
Here is a smattering of hard-earned truths straight from my time in Harper's Ferry, West Virginia (in order of importance):

1. When you hike in the Appalachians, wear insect repellent.


2. It is possible to co-exist with spiders as long as you leave the web intact, otherwise they may choose to bed down with you.


3. Never under-estimate your instincts as a writer.


4. Never under-estimate the power of community for your growth and nourishment as a writer; It takes more than just you to write your book.


5. Believe in yourself. (Really the same as number 3, but bears repeating.)


6. You are most likely smarter, hipper, and more writing savvy than you think you are. (Like 3 and 5, but bears repeating again. :) )


7. Northern women think Southern women are spoiled brats. (What? I was told that up there. Not sure if it is true. Would love to receive feedback on this one. Not that it really matters, but now I'm curious. :) )

Well, that about sums it up. All that said, I had a fabulous experience, made some great new friends, and came home with a sober grounding in my own beliefs and in the knowledge that I have a lot more work to do, which no one can do except moi.

Back to work!