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THE MAGIC OF HEDGEBROOK

/ Edwina Shaw / Leave a comment

Hedgebrook cottage

Hedgebrook cottage


I’ve just submitted my fourth application for a residency at Hedgebrook a women only writing community near Seattle. Ever since my friend Michelle Dicinoski was awarded a retreat there, I’ve yearned to follow in her footsteps and sit in one of these delightful cottages, watching hummingbirds flit by as I write. SIGH.

Hedgebrook offers more than a place of retreat though. It is an opportunity, a place full of nurturing wisdom to protect me as I delve deep into the darkest places of the mind for my books. But more than that, Hedgebrook calls to me because of the opportunity to connect with other women writing their own way towards change, women from all over the world who hope to make a difference, in whatever way we can. Each different. Each valuable. Hedgebrook is unique in the world in offering this kind of tribe. I long to be a part of it.

Click on the link to take a virtual tour – mind the drool on your keyboard! HEDGEBROOK VIRTUAL TOUR

Applications are open till next Wednesday if you want to give it a go.

The Rocky Road to Publication

/ Edwina Shaw / 1 Comment

Yes, the road to publication is not often easy. For the very lucky few, the first manuscript they ever write is picked up by a publisher within days. For the rest of us, the road is long and steep and filled with obstacles and heart-wounding rejection. But wait! There’s good news. If you keep at it, keep writing and never ever stop believing that this is your calling, then eventually, your prayers will be answered. Just like my best writing friend Helena Pastor.

Helena Pastor

Helena Pastor

She has just been offered a contract with the University of Queensland Press for her second memoir (the first is still searching for a good home). For more than eight years she’s been working on this book, and has been writing full time for over eleven. Yes, another overnight success story. She is my poster girl for resilience.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – Persistence is the key!

Here’s a great article on the realities of what it’s like trying to find a home for your books.
Rejection and Renewal