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founding

And wonderful to travel with you -- even if from my chair by my computer. I do have two windows in my study, both big enough to bring in much light and a pretty landscape outside (grass & plants, private houses, mostly quiet streets).

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author

Sounds lovely!

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founding

Thank you. I just got round to reading it this morning -- it's Sunday morning, around a quarter to nine in Alexandria, Va. I like the idea of artist's dates but am not sure I am sufficiently organized to pull it off. Each day I use my engagement book which I fill out once a season with all I've committed to and then as I go along any dates; and I write out on my steno pad a series of things I will do that day and check them out. I call these my routs or routines. They help give order and calm to my life and by following them I get more done of what I want to do.

I have been to Paris. Once many years ago, winter 1968, very cold, for about 5-6 weeks, all alone and (really happened) by the end I was beginning to speak French to others - even briefly think in it as getting too tedious to have to think in English and translate. But I have a bad ear and my accent was very bad, and I lost what I had gained orally when I returned to Leeds, England, which was were I was living then.

Then twice with my (second but very long time -- 45 years) husband, once around Christmas to past New Year's Eve, for 2 weeks plus a few days, and once for a week in summer. We did as many tourist things as we could. Both times we had our younger daughter with us. Izzy. She is now 39 and lives with me. I am a widow.

I especially appreciated that brief video. I would not have realized what is unique and moving about the statue without seeing the front and the whole of her body.

I have read your biography of Constance Fennimore Woolson, a novel by her, a travel book and some of her short stories ...

You are a brave lady with many good connections to help you along,

Ellen

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author

Thank you, Ellen! It’s great to hear from you. I love how you approach your days and that you are able to accomplish more that way. I could use such a strategy. For years I was so driven to do all the things, and I’ve drifted into a slower pace that is healthier for me and not as productive. It would be nice to find a middle ground. Thanks you again for sharing, and for reading! It’s wonderful to have you along.

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I think you will like Tove Jansson’s writing too, Anne. Her short stories are great.

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Yea, I’m looking forward to reading them!

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Thanks for this update. I know and admire Cynthia too! I was lucky enough to see Paris through her eyes during a workshop last fall. It was inspiring--

And I envy you for seeing the Cameron show there. I wrote a book about Cameron but don’t think I’ll get there in time to see it. ☹️

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author

Oh wow! Too bad. It is a lovely exhibit. But how wonderful that you already know her work so well.

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Nov 10, 2023Liked by Anne Boyd

A stupendous tour! Wow. How will you ever go back to a "normal" life (whatever that is) after this amazing adventure?

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author

Interesting question! I’m not sure what normal life is anymore since I gave up mine. 🙃 I was working ( writing and coaching) a lot more while I was in Scotland. But there is so much to see in Paris!

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founding
Nov 10, 2023Liked by Anne Boyd

Enjoyed the tour. Mom

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