Every year at this time we find ourselves in the position of expressing gratitude. In my case, it has not always been heartfelt.
This year, on the day after the day for giving thanks, I arrived at the place where I’ll be spending the next month. Yaddo is often derided as summer camp for artists. Sure enough, as I drove past the gates and into the woods, even though it’s near the end of autumn and even though the leaves are off the trees, I did in fact have that feeling of anticipation I used to get each time I went back to Camp Tohkomeupog.
There is much to be grateful for here. Maybe it’s the staff’s hospitable and respectful attitude. Maybe it’s the gracious surroundings or the extravagantly spacious studio. Maybe it’s all of those things that make me feel well taken care of. Early signs are that I do appreciate what a privilege this is: my first day here was the most productive in memory.
The place was beautiful, the people were great… yaddo yaddo yaddo… I've written a book.
Good Luck, Dean.
That looks MUCH nicer than Camp Tohkomeupog. Here's to productivity!
Sounds like a wonderful place, Dean! Luxuriate in that environment for every minute.