New Chapter

Last winter, after many years of debate, thinking and questioning (and I mean many), I applied to Vermont College of Fine Arts Masters in Children’s Book Writing. I found it ironic to request an undergrad transcript from my college. After 30 years, I was not convinced it was the most accurate way to judge my current academic capability. However on the positive, the process was much easier and more streamlined thanks to the internet than I remember it from prior. Writing the personal essay was a quirky turn of events. Each fall I assist high school seniors with their essays. Now I had to lay my soul out on the table and expose thoughts and feelings while someone read them. I wonder if I will bring a different perspective to my meetings with the seniors this coming fall. Then the biggest hurdle, the critical essay. I had not written one of these in what feels like forever and very well might be. With help from people at VT College and friends, I struggled my way through it. What a relief when I pressed the Submit button.

The bigger thrill was the acceptance call I received a number of weeks later. I am in! Yipee! The first residency was scheduled for July. Two weeks away from home in Montpelier, VT in summer. Very pretty. Surrounded by writers dedicated to children’s book. Great. Sharing a room with someone else? Hmmm.

But then the corona virus hits and life is throw upside down. The residency was switched to an online one. No escape from family and responsibilities but I get to sleep in my own bed. Pluses and minuses.

Now I am looking at deadlines, writing and critiquing. I am eager to see where my writing goes and how I grow and develop as a writer. I plan to use this space to document my changes. Here’s wishing myself the best of luck!