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Victoria Whitaker's avatar

Prague. Travel. Yes. Thus, the comments and gifts on Alfonse Mucha! Ahhhhhhhh! You, Andi, are more dear than I have words for. For all the reasons of sanity and completely vacuous self-confidence I will continue to refrain from writing to remain a profoundly devoted, committed, passionate, reader of everything from cereal boxes to Tolstoy.

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Andi Penner's avatar

I think I'll clone you! Oh, wait, you are one of a kind, Vicki! Yes, Prague, and next year I'll be there in July for the Prague Summer Program -- a 3-week writers conference/retreat/workshop bundle of activity, reflection, lectures, walking tours, writing, and more writing. Can't wait!

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Thalia Toha's avatar

Andi- Glad you got to take the time to write (instead of packing). Prague is lovely. What are you most looking forward to seeing? :)

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Andi Penner's avatar

Hi, Thalia.

Right now, I'm listening to the noon bells chiming in loud conversation across the city from my desk in an apartment in Vinohrady. Last night, I had dinner on the river--a floating dock--after walking for several miles, exploring the city on foot. The day before that, I spent four hours with my grandson at Vyshrad Park where he played on the playground and rode his bike to the path at the top of the fortress wall--quite an accomplishment at four-and-a-half! And I've been working on a short essay about trusting our stories to tell us what they need.

What is your favorite spot?

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Jim Peters's avatar

An inspirational post, enjoyed with my early morning coffee. Thoughts of Prague - so many lovely photographs to discover and make - and thoughts of end of life writing - positive thoughts of a topic I’d normally avoid - cause me to smile. Your procrastination has inspired my own. Though I could lead a workshop on procrastination, especially pre-travel procrastination, I enjoy learning more ways to improve my skills. Thanks! Prague in the spring will be so fun!

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Andi Penner's avatar

Thank you, Jim. I'm glad I inspired you to... procrastinate?! Ah, to think of Prague and photography and even "end-of-life writing"--if we don't write our stories, who will?

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Michele M Potter's avatar

So excited that you are off to Prague! Thank you for sharing your ideas and thoughts. It’s inspiring (though I am occasionally intimidated). Can’t wait to hear what’s next!

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Andi Penner's avatar

Intimidated? Goes both ways, girlfriend, you who hike Himalayas and ski around the globe! It's good we challenge each other (and challenge ourselves).

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Michele M Potter's avatar

That's cuz climbing in the Himalayas and skiing around the globe are easier than writing.

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Andi Penner's avatar

Oh, Dear Sonnin. I am stunned to hear this news. I remember when Whitman was born and have fond memories of hanging out with you and all the kids. You wrote a beautiful tribute to your son--the most difficult words a mother ever composes and the most difficult loss to endure. Thank you for bringing us into your sphere of grief and your circle of pride as Hawk's mama. We grieve with you. p.s. "Liked" is a mis-labeling, but the little heart communicates big love for you and your family.

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sonnind's avatar

I never thought I would have to write an obituary for a child. https://www.hoodmortuary.com/obituaries/whitman-waters

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May 30, 2024
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Andi Penner's avatar

Hi, Karen. I knew your name was familiar! Ally's workshop was inspiring. And that's fantastic about Rhode Island/IWWG possibility! You can find out about the conference at https://www.iwwg.org/--the conference is featured on the International Women's Writing Guild home page. And they are quite responsive via email if you have questions about attending as a "local." Thank you for subscribing!

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May 31, 2024
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Andi Penner's avatar

Yes, let's stay in contact!

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