Workshop leader Heidi Durrow and her tribe of aspiring novelists at the cinematic home of the Djerassi program.
So it has been a while since I posted. But following my awesome experience with a new offering affiliated with the Djerassi Resident Artists Program, my mindset has changed and so too, my actions.
I was one of seven aspiring debut novelists selected for a writing workshop/retreat led by Heidi Durrow, author of the soul-stirring “The Girl Who Fell From the Sky.”
After reading her exquisite debut novel several years ago, I told Heidi, via Facebook, that her book made me tear up my manuscript and start a major revision. Just days ago, we discussed my revised manuscript during the workshop, which turned out to be even more fabulous than I anticipated. Heidi is not just a terrific wordsmith, she is an insightful teacher. And she is funny, kind-hearted, relentless and brilliant to boot.
Durrow fostered a safe setting for seven strangers to bond and in the process forge a tribe of writers determined to polish and publish our novels. We all felt validated by the fact that the only way to get to the cinematic landscape that serves as home to the program is by invitation.
My private writer’s studio had a majestic view of the coastal grasslands, rolling emerald hills and Santa Cruz Mountains overlooking the shimmering Pacific Ocean. Trails wind throughout the property past towering Redwoods, babbling creeks and dozens of stunning sculptures created by the program’s visual artists.
The workshop/retreat is a new entity for the Djerassi Resident Artist Program, internationally recognized as one of the best artist residency programs.
Artist.
I left Durrow and Djerassi feeling like one for the first time. And now that my mindset has changed, so has my energy. That is why last Saturday, I spent the afternoon attending the area’s first FLOW Collective, a series of inspirational speakers from diverse occupations who shared how they engage “in a vibrant space of creating, living and producing.”
Speakers such as Kym Grinnage inspired me with his daily morning ritual of thanking the universe for what he has and moving on from there. He operates from “an attitude of gratitude,” said the vice president and general manager at NBC 12.
The stimulating program, which organizers plan to make annual, was also interactive. So I pitched my FLIPPER GIRL screenplay and caught the attention of a successful director. We’ll see where that goes. And if nowhere, I will keep trying, because my work, my novel and scripts, which all deal with adolescents struggling with identity and finding their voice, have something important to say in my signature style.
I am an artist.
The mindset change… fabulous! Looking forward to reading more in your signature style…
Thanks, Anne! Looking forward to our “traveling” discussions.
What a great experience, Robin! It sounds like the setting was really inspirational, too. I can’t wait to read your book!
Thanks so much, Gigi! You have always encouraged me to keep writing and I am finally in the zone.
So happy for you, Robin. Can’t wait to hear what happens with Flipper Girl! You know I’m a big fan of that idea!!!
Ellen, thanks for all of your support! I appreciate your friendship.
Robin, congrats on being acknowledged for the artist you are – by being invited to the Durrow and Djerassi retreat. Blessings on your writing!
Thanks so much for your lovely compliment, Jana!
Hi, Robin!
This is wonderful. You sound soooo inspired. So keep at it! Nothing’s stopping you, now.
Thanks, Paula. Definitely fired up!
I am so excited for your future and truly find it a pleasure and privilege that you have shared your continuing journey with me…with all of us!
Thanks, Wanda!
I believe with all my heart that you are destined for greatness my sister-friend! I can’t wait!
Thanks, Wanda! You are generous with your support and encouragement. Love you!