Taking Classes

Anne here, and today I'm talking about taking classes, both as a teacher and as a student.

Lately I've been doing both. Currently I'm in Brisbane, (state capital of Queensland) at a conference called GenreCon which celebrates all varieties of genre fiction. There were people writing crime, romance, urban fantasy, science fiction and all shades, subgenres and combinations of these —even fan fiction. There was a mixture of panels, speeches, workshops and discussions and it ended up with a very funny, not-exactly-serious debate on the topic "Genre just wants to have fun," in which I was a speaker—but I digress.
Gracie@GenreCon

In one panel discussion the question arose as to whether classes in "how to write" were any use. There was a strong difference of opinion among the speakers and there was some good discussion of the topic afterward.

Since I do quite a lot of teaching—and I wouldn't do it if I didn't believe it helped— I was arguing on the side of taking classes to help your writing along. I firmly believe my pathway to publication would have been different and possibly faster if there'd been good classes available — or I'd known about RWA.

The discussion got me thinking about taking classes in general. I enjoy teaching — in fact on Friday, I'm going to be heading even further north to Far North Queensland (find Cairns on the east coast of Australia and head a little south to Innisfail) where I'll be teaching craft-of-writing the whole weekend.

But I particularly love being the student, where there's no responsibility except to work and enjoy and play and learn. Several of my friends are doing classes just for fun — two are learning Latin dancing — the tango in particular. They live in different states and are at very different stages — one is a beginner and one very accomplished. The beginner isn't too impressed with her teacher and we were joking that the person she really wanted to teach her was Antonio Banderas.
BanderasTango If you want to see him in action, click here.

But we all agreed that taking classes and learning new, unfamiliar things was good for the soul. Five years ago, one of my friends took up violin for the first time — he wanted to learn to play Irish folk music. He was in his 50's and everyone said he was mad, too old, etc. But he persisted and now he plays in an Irish fiddle group and you'd think he'd been playing since he was a boy. He has a busy, stressful job and he told me once that coming home to play the fiddle at night is what's kept him sane.

One of the things I often do to celebrate finishing a book is to take some kind of a class — usually a craft class.

PMCEarringsAfter several books I've taken a class in PMC (Precious Metal Clay) jewelry. PMC is a clay-like substance which molds like clay, but which, when fired, shrinks about 10% as the "clay" burns away and you're left with silver that's more pure than sterling silver. For firing small pieces you can use an ordinary kitchen brulé burner and the results are gorgeous. Those are some earrings I made.

Recently, after I'd turned in my latest book (The Winter Bride) I took a class called "Bijoux Porcelain" which was fun and easy and the results so pretty. It involved rolling out porcelain clay, then cutting out shapes and then applying Japanese tissue transfer designs, and then firing. The whole process was amazingly easy — very much like making cookies (or biscuits as we call them in Australia) except the baking was done by the teacher in a pottery kiln.
Porcelain

I haven't seen the fired pieces yet — there they are sitting on a firing sheet waiting to go into the kiln— I'll pick them up when I get home again — but we all took photos of our pieces before we left the class (so we didn't mix any up.) The gray color will be pure white when it's fired. My pieces are to become earrings, brooches and pendants. Some of the others were made by people who'd already done one class and brought their own Christmas cookie cutters to make ornaments for the Christmas tree. So pretty. Guess who's thinking of doing another class to make ornaments?

What about you? Do you like taking classes as an adult? What's the best class you've ever taken? Or what would be your ideal class and who would be your ideal teacher?

I'll send a book and one of my porcelain pieces to someone who leaves a comment.

155 thoughts on “Taking Classes”

  1. WHEWWWWWW on the Anthony banderas tango scene! You have great craft classes available–I’ve never heard of PMC or the porcelain, though my webmistress has taken several classes to make dichroic glass ornaments, and they’re lovely. I must admit that I haven’t taken any such classes in years, but there must be some fun things if I look around. Thanks for the inspiration! Reply

  2. WHEWWWWWW on the Anthony banderas tango scene! You have great craft classes available–I’ve never heard of PMC or the porcelain, though my webmistress has taken several classes to make dichroic glass ornaments, and they’re lovely. I must admit that I haven’t taken any such classes in years, but there must be some fun things if I look around. Thanks for the inspiration! Reply

  3. WHEWWWWWW on the Anthony banderas tango scene! You have great craft classes available–I’ve never heard of PMC or the porcelain, though my webmistress has taken several classes to make dichroic glass ornaments, and they’re lovely. I must admit that I haven’t taken any such classes in years, but there must be some fun things if I look around. Thanks for the inspiration! Reply

  4. WHEWWWWWW on the Anthony banderas tango scene! You have great craft classes available–I’ve never heard of PMC or the porcelain, though my webmistress has taken several classes to make dichroic glass ornaments, and they’re lovely. I must admit that I haven’t taken any such classes in years, but there must be some fun things if I look around. Thanks for the inspiration! Reply

  5. WHEWWWWWW on the Anthony banderas tango scene! You have great craft classes available–I’ve never heard of PMC or the porcelain, though my webmistress has taken several classes to make dichroic glass ornaments, and they’re lovely. I must admit that I haven’t taken any such classes in years, but there must be some fun things if I look around. Thanks for the inspiration! Reply

  6. It’s a fabulous clip, isn’t it, Mary Jo?
    As for the craft classes, yes, I’m very lucky to have found things to make that are beautiful as well as fairly easy to do. I enjoy making little things — it relaxes me and I have something pretty at the end.
    And both PMC jewelry and porcelain is very easy and the results lovely, I think.

    Reply
  7. It’s a fabulous clip, isn’t it, Mary Jo?
    As for the craft classes, yes, I’m very lucky to have found things to make that are beautiful as well as fairly easy to do. I enjoy making little things — it relaxes me and I have something pretty at the end.
    And both PMC jewelry and porcelain is very easy and the results lovely, I think.

    Reply
  8. It’s a fabulous clip, isn’t it, Mary Jo?
    As for the craft classes, yes, I’m very lucky to have found things to make that are beautiful as well as fairly easy to do. I enjoy making little things — it relaxes me and I have something pretty at the end.
    And both PMC jewelry and porcelain is very easy and the results lovely, I think.

    Reply
  9. It’s a fabulous clip, isn’t it, Mary Jo?
    As for the craft classes, yes, I’m very lucky to have found things to make that are beautiful as well as fairly easy to do. I enjoy making little things — it relaxes me and I have something pretty at the end.
    And both PMC jewelry and porcelain is very easy and the results lovely, I think.

    Reply
  10. It’s a fabulous clip, isn’t it, Mary Jo?
    As for the craft classes, yes, I’m very lucky to have found things to make that are beautiful as well as fairly easy to do. I enjoy making little things — it relaxes me and I have something pretty at the end.
    And both PMC jewelry and porcelain is very easy and the results lovely, I think.

    Reply
  11. Back in the day I’d go to UCLA Extension and take all the courses I couldn’t get to when I was a full time student because of my schedule. Egyptology, ancient history, astronomy, physics, literature, specific writers, pop culture, all sorts of things. It was an agreeable change after a day at work and I met interesting people there, some of whom are pals to this day.
    Then I got the bright idea of going back to take accounting courses – with grades! – and by the time I was done with that, I was so burned out on school of any kind, any place, any time that I haven’t done a course in anything since and have no desire to. The internet has come along, and I’ve been able to satisfy my curiosity about just about anything for free and on my own clock.
    So I understand both the urge to take courses and the absolute aversion to it 🙂

    Reply
  12. Back in the day I’d go to UCLA Extension and take all the courses I couldn’t get to when I was a full time student because of my schedule. Egyptology, ancient history, astronomy, physics, literature, specific writers, pop culture, all sorts of things. It was an agreeable change after a day at work and I met interesting people there, some of whom are pals to this day.
    Then I got the bright idea of going back to take accounting courses – with grades! – and by the time I was done with that, I was so burned out on school of any kind, any place, any time that I haven’t done a course in anything since and have no desire to. The internet has come along, and I’ve been able to satisfy my curiosity about just about anything for free and on my own clock.
    So I understand both the urge to take courses and the absolute aversion to it 🙂

    Reply
  13. Back in the day I’d go to UCLA Extension and take all the courses I couldn’t get to when I was a full time student because of my schedule. Egyptology, ancient history, astronomy, physics, literature, specific writers, pop culture, all sorts of things. It was an agreeable change after a day at work and I met interesting people there, some of whom are pals to this day.
    Then I got the bright idea of going back to take accounting courses – with grades! – and by the time I was done with that, I was so burned out on school of any kind, any place, any time that I haven’t done a course in anything since and have no desire to. The internet has come along, and I’ve been able to satisfy my curiosity about just about anything for free and on my own clock.
    So I understand both the urge to take courses and the absolute aversion to it 🙂

    Reply
  14. Back in the day I’d go to UCLA Extension and take all the courses I couldn’t get to when I was a full time student because of my schedule. Egyptology, ancient history, astronomy, physics, literature, specific writers, pop culture, all sorts of things. It was an agreeable change after a day at work and I met interesting people there, some of whom are pals to this day.
    Then I got the bright idea of going back to take accounting courses – with grades! – and by the time I was done with that, I was so burned out on school of any kind, any place, any time that I haven’t done a course in anything since and have no desire to. The internet has come along, and I’ve been able to satisfy my curiosity about just about anything for free and on my own clock.
    So I understand both the urge to take courses and the absolute aversion to it 🙂

    Reply
  15. Back in the day I’d go to UCLA Extension and take all the courses I couldn’t get to when I was a full time student because of my schedule. Egyptology, ancient history, astronomy, physics, literature, specific writers, pop culture, all sorts of things. It was an agreeable change after a day at work and I met interesting people there, some of whom are pals to this day.
    Then I got the bright idea of going back to take accounting courses – with grades! – and by the time I was done with that, I was so burned out on school of any kind, any place, any time that I haven’t done a course in anything since and have no desire to. The internet has come along, and I’ve been able to satisfy my curiosity about just about anything for free and on my own clock.
    So I understand both the urge to take courses and the absolute aversion to it 🙂

    Reply
  16. Janice, I can understand that — these days I only do courses to teach me to make things, rather than any kind of graded assessment — just for fun, in other words. I enrolled today to do another one of the porcelain classes and the plan is to make Christmas ornaments and maybe some gifts. I also enrolled a friend of mine — I think it’s a fun thing to do with a friend.

    Reply
  17. Janice, I can understand that — these days I only do courses to teach me to make things, rather than any kind of graded assessment — just for fun, in other words. I enrolled today to do another one of the porcelain classes and the plan is to make Christmas ornaments and maybe some gifts. I also enrolled a friend of mine — I think it’s a fun thing to do with a friend.

    Reply
  18. Janice, I can understand that — these days I only do courses to teach me to make things, rather than any kind of graded assessment — just for fun, in other words. I enrolled today to do another one of the porcelain classes and the plan is to make Christmas ornaments and maybe some gifts. I also enrolled a friend of mine — I think it’s a fun thing to do with a friend.

    Reply
  19. Janice, I can understand that — these days I only do courses to teach me to make things, rather than any kind of graded assessment — just for fun, in other words. I enrolled today to do another one of the porcelain classes and the plan is to make Christmas ornaments and maybe some gifts. I also enrolled a friend of mine — I think it’s a fun thing to do with a friend.

    Reply
  20. Janice, I can understand that — these days I only do courses to teach me to make things, rather than any kind of graded assessment — just for fun, in other words. I enrolled today to do another one of the porcelain classes and the plan is to make Christmas ornaments and maybe some gifts. I also enrolled a friend of mine — I think it’s a fun thing to do with a friend.

    Reply
  21. When husband Harry and I moved to Washington State, it was the intention of him attending college to become a physical therapist but, after several attempts it was not possible his scores were so low…he then applied to the state college and was granted but again he had difficulty with the courses so, I attended his classes and read everything he did, we switched to psychology courses…keep in mind, that I never thought to attend college myself, I never dreamt it possible…but I did it to help Harry achieve his dream of working with children with needs…he now as a Masters Degree in Cognitive Psychology and is an Autistic Specialist and I have a Degree in Cultural Anthropology, with a second Degree in Art Appreciation…when I think back at all this, it’s unbelievable…I was brought up to work for a living not study.

    Reply
  22. When husband Harry and I moved to Washington State, it was the intention of him attending college to become a physical therapist but, after several attempts it was not possible his scores were so low…he then applied to the state college and was granted but again he had difficulty with the courses so, I attended his classes and read everything he did, we switched to psychology courses…keep in mind, that I never thought to attend college myself, I never dreamt it possible…but I did it to help Harry achieve his dream of working with children with needs…he now as a Masters Degree in Cognitive Psychology and is an Autistic Specialist and I have a Degree in Cultural Anthropology, with a second Degree in Art Appreciation…when I think back at all this, it’s unbelievable…I was brought up to work for a living not study.

    Reply
  23. When husband Harry and I moved to Washington State, it was the intention of him attending college to become a physical therapist but, after several attempts it was not possible his scores were so low…he then applied to the state college and was granted but again he had difficulty with the courses so, I attended his classes and read everything he did, we switched to psychology courses…keep in mind, that I never thought to attend college myself, I never dreamt it possible…but I did it to help Harry achieve his dream of working with children with needs…he now as a Masters Degree in Cognitive Psychology and is an Autistic Specialist and I have a Degree in Cultural Anthropology, with a second Degree in Art Appreciation…when I think back at all this, it’s unbelievable…I was brought up to work for a living not study.

    Reply
  24. When husband Harry and I moved to Washington State, it was the intention of him attending college to become a physical therapist but, after several attempts it was not possible his scores were so low…he then applied to the state college and was granted but again he had difficulty with the courses so, I attended his classes and read everything he did, we switched to psychology courses…keep in mind, that I never thought to attend college myself, I never dreamt it possible…but I did it to help Harry achieve his dream of working with children with needs…he now as a Masters Degree in Cognitive Psychology and is an Autistic Specialist and I have a Degree in Cultural Anthropology, with a second Degree in Art Appreciation…when I think back at all this, it’s unbelievable…I was brought up to work for a living not study.

    Reply
  25. When husband Harry and I moved to Washington State, it was the intention of him attending college to become a physical therapist but, after several attempts it was not possible his scores were so low…he then applied to the state college and was granted but again he had difficulty with the courses so, I attended his classes and read everything he did, we switched to psychology courses…keep in mind, that I never thought to attend college myself, I never dreamt it possible…but I did it to help Harry achieve his dream of working with children with needs…he now as a Masters Degree in Cognitive Psychology and is an Autistic Specialist and I have a Degree in Cultural Anthropology, with a second Degree in Art Appreciation…when I think back at all this, it’s unbelievable…I was brought up to work for a living not study.

    Reply
  26. I think the web ate my first comment, so apologies if it turns up twice! I like writing classes but also do crafty type things to try something new, satisfy the writer magpie brain and have fun. The porcelain looks gorgeous, Anne, might have to give it a go. The last class I did was making tortillas. And I’m doing a photography class and one on jams and preserves in a few weeks.

    Reply
  27. I think the web ate my first comment, so apologies if it turns up twice! I like writing classes but also do crafty type things to try something new, satisfy the writer magpie brain and have fun. The porcelain looks gorgeous, Anne, might have to give it a go. The last class I did was making tortillas. And I’m doing a photography class and one on jams and preserves in a few weeks.

    Reply
  28. I think the web ate my first comment, so apologies if it turns up twice! I like writing classes but also do crafty type things to try something new, satisfy the writer magpie brain and have fun. The porcelain looks gorgeous, Anne, might have to give it a go. The last class I did was making tortillas. And I’m doing a photography class and one on jams and preserves in a few weeks.

    Reply
  29. I think the web ate my first comment, so apologies if it turns up twice! I like writing classes but also do crafty type things to try something new, satisfy the writer magpie brain and have fun. The porcelain looks gorgeous, Anne, might have to give it a go. The last class I did was making tortillas. And I’m doing a photography class and one on jams and preserves in a few weeks.

    Reply
  30. I think the web ate my first comment, so apologies if it turns up twice! I like writing classes but also do crafty type things to try something new, satisfy the writer magpie brain and have fun. The porcelain looks gorgeous, Anne, might have to give it a go. The last class I did was making tortillas. And I’m doing a photography class and one on jams and preserves in a few weeks.

    Reply
  31. I’ve been mulling studying again but after so many years I worry that it’ll be difficult to have the discipline to keep at it.
    I’d like to study something related to computer animation; imagine being able to work on something like Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit!

    Reply
  32. I’ve been mulling studying again but after so many years I worry that it’ll be difficult to have the discipline to keep at it.
    I’d like to study something related to computer animation; imagine being able to work on something like Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit!

    Reply
  33. I’ve been mulling studying again but after so many years I worry that it’ll be difficult to have the discipline to keep at it.
    I’d like to study something related to computer animation; imagine being able to work on something like Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit!

    Reply
  34. I’ve been mulling studying again but after so many years I worry that it’ll be difficult to have the discipline to keep at it.
    I’d like to study something related to computer animation; imagine being able to work on something like Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit!

    Reply
  35. I’ve been mulling studying again but after so many years I worry that it’ll be difficult to have the discipline to keep at it.
    I’d like to study something related to computer animation; imagine being able to work on something like Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit!

    Reply
  36. I’ve been to a couple of seminars lately and plan to go to NJ this weekend for more learning. The problem with the classes so far is that I come away feeling I learned a lot but there is so little I know. I am certain that I’ll learn by doing, but I plunge back into the comfortable rather than moving forward on a project. What I try to focus on is that almost every speaker said it took her years to perfect her craft and that she reached out to others at various points for direction and inspiration.
    If I don’t follow through with this, there is some formal education that I could do to improve my job skills, courses on economics and statistics. I was okay on math in school but I loved the liberal arts so much more, especially my international relations and history classes. Now I am at a point where I work with a lot economists and would like to know more.

    Reply
  37. I’ve been to a couple of seminars lately and plan to go to NJ this weekend for more learning. The problem with the classes so far is that I come away feeling I learned a lot but there is so little I know. I am certain that I’ll learn by doing, but I plunge back into the comfortable rather than moving forward on a project. What I try to focus on is that almost every speaker said it took her years to perfect her craft and that she reached out to others at various points for direction and inspiration.
    If I don’t follow through with this, there is some formal education that I could do to improve my job skills, courses on economics and statistics. I was okay on math in school but I loved the liberal arts so much more, especially my international relations and history classes. Now I am at a point where I work with a lot economists and would like to know more.

    Reply
  38. I’ve been to a couple of seminars lately and plan to go to NJ this weekend for more learning. The problem with the classes so far is that I come away feeling I learned a lot but there is so little I know. I am certain that I’ll learn by doing, but I plunge back into the comfortable rather than moving forward on a project. What I try to focus on is that almost every speaker said it took her years to perfect her craft and that she reached out to others at various points for direction and inspiration.
    If I don’t follow through with this, there is some formal education that I could do to improve my job skills, courses on economics and statistics. I was okay on math in school but I loved the liberal arts so much more, especially my international relations and history classes. Now I am at a point where I work with a lot economists and would like to know more.

    Reply
  39. I’ve been to a couple of seminars lately and plan to go to NJ this weekend for more learning. The problem with the classes so far is that I come away feeling I learned a lot but there is so little I know. I am certain that I’ll learn by doing, but I plunge back into the comfortable rather than moving forward on a project. What I try to focus on is that almost every speaker said it took her years to perfect her craft and that she reached out to others at various points for direction and inspiration.
    If I don’t follow through with this, there is some formal education that I could do to improve my job skills, courses on economics and statistics. I was okay on math in school but I loved the liberal arts so much more, especially my international relations and history classes. Now I am at a point where I work with a lot economists and would like to know more.

    Reply
  40. I’ve been to a couple of seminars lately and plan to go to NJ this weekend for more learning. The problem with the classes so far is that I come away feeling I learned a lot but there is so little I know. I am certain that I’ll learn by doing, but I plunge back into the comfortable rather than moving forward on a project. What I try to focus on is that almost every speaker said it took her years to perfect her craft and that she reached out to others at various points for direction and inspiration.
    If I don’t follow through with this, there is some formal education that I could do to improve my job skills, courses on economics and statistics. I was okay on math in school but I loved the liberal arts so much more, especially my international relations and history classes. Now I am at a point where I work with a lot economists and would like to know more.

    Reply
  41. I had to take classes when I was working, those were good, but not fun. I think the first computer class I took was the most fun. It was before the web – at least for most of us and we were a small class. We ended up playing hangman during the last class.

    Reply
  42. I had to take classes when I was working, those were good, but not fun. I think the first computer class I took was the most fun. It was before the web – at least for most of us and we were a small class. We ended up playing hangman during the last class.

    Reply
  43. I had to take classes when I was working, those were good, but not fun. I think the first computer class I took was the most fun. It was before the web – at least for most of us and we were a small class. We ended up playing hangman during the last class.

    Reply
  44. I had to take classes when I was working, those were good, but not fun. I think the first computer class I took was the most fun. It was before the web – at least for most of us and we were a small class. We ended up playing hangman during the last class.

    Reply
  45. I had to take classes when I was working, those were good, but not fun. I think the first computer class I took was the most fun. It was before the web – at least for most of us and we were a small class. We ended up playing hangman during the last class.

    Reply
  46. I have taken classes all my life. I love having the schedule of a place to go to learn something new. I have taken the usual academic classes and also tap dance, macramé, stenciling, Zentangle, stain glass, and yoga, to name a few.

    Reply
  47. I have taken classes all my life. I love having the schedule of a place to go to learn something new. I have taken the usual academic classes and also tap dance, macramé, stenciling, Zentangle, stain glass, and yoga, to name a few.

    Reply
  48. I have taken classes all my life. I love having the schedule of a place to go to learn something new. I have taken the usual academic classes and also tap dance, macramé, stenciling, Zentangle, stain glass, and yoga, to name a few.

    Reply
  49. I have taken classes all my life. I love having the schedule of a place to go to learn something new. I have taken the usual academic classes and also tap dance, macramé, stenciling, Zentangle, stain glass, and yoga, to name a few.

    Reply
  50. I have taken classes all my life. I love having the schedule of a place to go to learn something new. I have taken the usual academic classes and also tap dance, macramé, stenciling, Zentangle, stain glass, and yoga, to name a few.

    Reply
  51. Juanita, what a great story. I think a lot of people — especially girls — don’t realize what they’re capable of. Fantastic, too that you could help your husband so much, as well as yourself.
    Mel, I love the sound of your tortilla class. It’s wonderful that there are so many short, fun, creative classes available. You’ll love the porcelain one, I’m sure.

    Reply
  52. Juanita, what a great story. I think a lot of people — especially girls — don’t realize what they’re capable of. Fantastic, too that you could help your husband so much, as well as yourself.
    Mel, I love the sound of your tortilla class. It’s wonderful that there are so many short, fun, creative classes available. You’ll love the porcelain one, I’m sure.

    Reply
  53. Juanita, what a great story. I think a lot of people — especially girls — don’t realize what they’re capable of. Fantastic, too that you could help your husband so much, as well as yourself.
    Mel, I love the sound of your tortilla class. It’s wonderful that there are so many short, fun, creative classes available. You’ll love the porcelain one, I’m sure.

    Reply
  54. Juanita, what a great story. I think a lot of people — especially girls — don’t realize what they’re capable of. Fantastic, too that you could help your husband so much, as well as yourself.
    Mel, I love the sound of your tortilla class. It’s wonderful that there are so many short, fun, creative classes available. You’ll love the porcelain one, I’m sure.

    Reply
  55. Juanita, what a great story. I think a lot of people — especially girls — don’t realize what they’re capable of. Fantastic, too that you could help your husband so much, as well as yourself.
    Mel, I love the sound of your tortilla class. It’s wonderful that there are so many short, fun, creative classes available. You’ll love the porcelain one, I’m sure.

    Reply
  56. Linda, I think if you enjoy something the disciple comes easy — it doesn’t even feel like discipline. Actually, I attended a conference called GenreCon on the weekend and met a guy who’d been working on Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit – it was very cool.
    Minna, language classes are an excellent thing to do. I have a friend who’s been learning French for the first time and she loves it. She says it really stretches a different part of her brain.

    Reply
  57. Linda, I think if you enjoy something the disciple comes easy — it doesn’t even feel like discipline. Actually, I attended a conference called GenreCon on the weekend and met a guy who’d been working on Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit – it was very cool.
    Minna, language classes are an excellent thing to do. I have a friend who’s been learning French for the first time and she loves it. She says it really stretches a different part of her brain.

    Reply
  58. Linda, I think if you enjoy something the disciple comes easy — it doesn’t even feel like discipline. Actually, I attended a conference called GenreCon on the weekend and met a guy who’d been working on Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit – it was very cool.
    Minna, language classes are an excellent thing to do. I have a friend who’s been learning French for the first time and she loves it. She says it really stretches a different part of her brain.

    Reply
  59. Linda, I think if you enjoy something the disciple comes easy — it doesn’t even feel like discipline. Actually, I attended a conference called GenreCon on the weekend and met a guy who’d been working on Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit – it was very cool.
    Minna, language classes are an excellent thing to do. I have a friend who’s been learning French for the first time and she loves it. She says it really stretches a different part of her brain.

    Reply
  60. Linda, I think if you enjoy something the disciple comes easy — it doesn’t even feel like discipline. Actually, I attended a conference called GenreCon on the weekend and met a guy who’d been working on Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit – it was very cool.
    Minna, language classes are an excellent thing to do. I have a friend who’s been learning French for the first time and she loves it. She says it really stretches a different part of her brain.

    Reply
  61. Shannon, it sounds like you’re going to the NJ romance conference — have a great time. I always find conferences so inspiring. One day I’ll attend some of the regional ones in the USA. Of course classes are only the beginning — it’s what you do with what you learn that counts, and yes, people take years to perfect their craft. It’s a never-ending journey, and it’s what I like about being a writer — that you never know everything and there’s always more to learn.
    Still, if you have faith and keep trying and trust your instincts, success will come, I’m sure. Good luck.

    Reply
  62. Shannon, it sounds like you’re going to the NJ romance conference — have a great time. I always find conferences so inspiring. One day I’ll attend some of the regional ones in the USA. Of course classes are only the beginning — it’s what you do with what you learn that counts, and yes, people take years to perfect their craft. It’s a never-ending journey, and it’s what I like about being a writer — that you never know everything and there’s always more to learn.
    Still, if you have faith and keep trying and trust your instincts, success will come, I’m sure. Good luck.

    Reply
  63. Shannon, it sounds like you’re going to the NJ romance conference — have a great time. I always find conferences so inspiring. One day I’ll attend some of the regional ones in the USA. Of course classes are only the beginning — it’s what you do with what you learn that counts, and yes, people take years to perfect their craft. It’s a never-ending journey, and it’s what I like about being a writer — that you never know everything and there’s always more to learn.
    Still, if you have faith and keep trying and trust your instincts, success will come, I’m sure. Good luck.

    Reply
  64. Shannon, it sounds like you’re going to the NJ romance conference — have a great time. I always find conferences so inspiring. One day I’ll attend some of the regional ones in the USA. Of course classes are only the beginning — it’s what you do with what you learn that counts, and yes, people take years to perfect their craft. It’s a never-ending journey, and it’s what I like about being a writer — that you never know everything and there’s always more to learn.
    Still, if you have faith and keep trying and trust your instincts, success will come, I’m sure. Good luck.

    Reply
  65. Shannon, it sounds like you’re going to the NJ romance conference — have a great time. I always find conferences so inspiring. One day I’ll attend some of the regional ones in the USA. Of course classes are only the beginning — it’s what you do with what you learn that counts, and yes, people take years to perfect their craft. It’s a never-ending journey, and it’s what I like about being a writer — that you never know everything and there’s always more to learn.
    Still, if you have faith and keep trying and trust your instincts, success will come, I’m sure. Good luck.

    Reply
  66. Gram, I remember my first computer class and it was great fun. I remember when the computer asked my friend to type in her name, she wrote “Pooh Bag” — not realizing the computer would then speak to her. All through the class you could hear the computer saying things like “Well done Pooh Bag” or “No Pooh Bag, try again.” It was very funny.

    Reply
  67. Gram, I remember my first computer class and it was great fun. I remember when the computer asked my friend to type in her name, she wrote “Pooh Bag” — not realizing the computer would then speak to her. All through the class you could hear the computer saying things like “Well done Pooh Bag” or “No Pooh Bag, try again.” It was very funny.

    Reply
  68. Gram, I remember my first computer class and it was great fun. I remember when the computer asked my friend to type in her name, she wrote “Pooh Bag” — not realizing the computer would then speak to her. All through the class you could hear the computer saying things like “Well done Pooh Bag” or “No Pooh Bag, try again.” It was very funny.

    Reply
  69. Gram, I remember my first computer class and it was great fun. I remember when the computer asked my friend to type in her name, she wrote “Pooh Bag” — not realizing the computer would then speak to her. All through the class you could hear the computer saying things like “Well done Pooh Bag” or “No Pooh Bag, try again.” It was very funny.

    Reply
  70. Gram, I remember my first computer class and it was great fun. I remember when the computer asked my friend to type in her name, she wrote “Pooh Bag” — not realizing the computer would then speak to her. All through the class you could hear the computer saying things like “Well done Pooh Bag” or “No Pooh Bag, try again.” It was very funny.

    Reply
  71. Jackie those classes sound like such fun. I’ve never heard of Zentangle though — I just had to look it up. It looks amazing.
    I did a leadlight class once, which I guess is similar to your stain glass, and that was fun, too.

    Reply
  72. Jackie those classes sound like such fun. I’ve never heard of Zentangle though — I just had to look it up. It looks amazing.
    I did a leadlight class once, which I guess is similar to your stain glass, and that was fun, too.

    Reply
  73. Jackie those classes sound like such fun. I’ve never heard of Zentangle though — I just had to look it up. It looks amazing.
    I did a leadlight class once, which I guess is similar to your stain glass, and that was fun, too.

    Reply
  74. Jackie those classes sound like such fun. I’ve never heard of Zentangle though — I just had to look it up. It looks amazing.
    I did a leadlight class once, which I guess is similar to your stain glass, and that was fun, too.

    Reply
  75. Jackie those classes sound like such fun. I’ve never heard of Zentangle though — I just had to look it up. It looks amazing.
    I did a leadlight class once, which I guess is similar to your stain glass, and that was fun, too.

    Reply
  76. I have taken many classes through the years, but the jewelry making class during one summer was the most enjoyable and taught me something aside from jewelry creation. I interacted with women of all ages whose wisdom was imparted daily. I learned patience, and to listen and remember from their experiences.

    Reply
  77. I have taken many classes through the years, but the jewelry making class during one summer was the most enjoyable and taught me something aside from jewelry creation. I interacted with women of all ages whose wisdom was imparted daily. I learned patience, and to listen and remember from their experiences.

    Reply
  78. I have taken many classes through the years, but the jewelry making class during one summer was the most enjoyable and taught me something aside from jewelry creation. I interacted with women of all ages whose wisdom was imparted daily. I learned patience, and to listen and remember from their experiences.

    Reply
  79. I have taken many classes through the years, but the jewelry making class during one summer was the most enjoyable and taught me something aside from jewelry creation. I interacted with women of all ages whose wisdom was imparted daily. I learned patience, and to listen and remember from their experiences.

    Reply
  80. I have taken many classes through the years, but the jewelry making class during one summer was the most enjoyable and taught me something aside from jewelry creation. I interacted with women of all ages whose wisdom was imparted daily. I learned patience, and to listen and remember from their experiences.

    Reply
  81. I began taking classes and continue to but my ultimate fave was learning about adventures and travel. Each week there was a speaker who introduced us to another locale. Domestic and international. This opened up so much for me and thus began my travel fascination.

    Reply
  82. I began taking classes and continue to but my ultimate fave was learning about adventures and travel. Each week there was a speaker who introduced us to another locale. Domestic and international. This opened up so much for me and thus began my travel fascination.

    Reply
  83. I began taking classes and continue to but my ultimate fave was learning about adventures and travel. Each week there was a speaker who introduced us to another locale. Domestic and international. This opened up so much for me and thus began my travel fascination.

    Reply
  84. I began taking classes and continue to but my ultimate fave was learning about adventures and travel. Each week there was a speaker who introduced us to another locale. Domestic and international. This opened up so much for me and thus began my travel fascination.

    Reply
  85. I began taking classes and continue to but my ultimate fave was learning about adventures and travel. Each week there was a speaker who introduced us to another locale. Domestic and international. This opened up so much for me and thus began my travel fascination.

    Reply
  86. I admit to thinking about taking courses various and then never getting there !My excuse is living out here in the sticks its always quite a distance to go .Probably not when looking at distances in Australia and the states but English country lanes in the dark are not fun !!Thats my excuse and I am sticking to it !
    On the subject of your friend who took up the fiddle my husband took up the bagpipes!He had always said he wanted to play them so as a bit of a laugh some friends bought him a cheap set for his sixty fifth birthday !Then another friend turned up and said if he really wanted to learn to get himself a chanter (thats a pipe a bit like a recorder )and he would teach him !Now six years on I am still being serenaded by the pipes on a monday evening though he still hasn’t got good enough to play the black bear up and down the road on New Years Eve !!Probably to the relief of the neighbours !

    Reply
  87. I admit to thinking about taking courses various and then never getting there !My excuse is living out here in the sticks its always quite a distance to go .Probably not when looking at distances in Australia and the states but English country lanes in the dark are not fun !!Thats my excuse and I am sticking to it !
    On the subject of your friend who took up the fiddle my husband took up the bagpipes!He had always said he wanted to play them so as a bit of a laugh some friends bought him a cheap set for his sixty fifth birthday !Then another friend turned up and said if he really wanted to learn to get himself a chanter (thats a pipe a bit like a recorder )and he would teach him !Now six years on I am still being serenaded by the pipes on a monday evening though he still hasn’t got good enough to play the black bear up and down the road on New Years Eve !!Probably to the relief of the neighbours !

    Reply
  88. I admit to thinking about taking courses various and then never getting there !My excuse is living out here in the sticks its always quite a distance to go .Probably not when looking at distances in Australia and the states but English country lanes in the dark are not fun !!Thats my excuse and I am sticking to it !
    On the subject of your friend who took up the fiddle my husband took up the bagpipes!He had always said he wanted to play them so as a bit of a laugh some friends bought him a cheap set for his sixty fifth birthday !Then another friend turned up and said if he really wanted to learn to get himself a chanter (thats a pipe a bit like a recorder )and he would teach him !Now six years on I am still being serenaded by the pipes on a monday evening though he still hasn’t got good enough to play the black bear up and down the road on New Years Eve !!Probably to the relief of the neighbours !

    Reply
  89. I admit to thinking about taking courses various and then never getting there !My excuse is living out here in the sticks its always quite a distance to go .Probably not when looking at distances in Australia and the states but English country lanes in the dark are not fun !!Thats my excuse and I am sticking to it !
    On the subject of your friend who took up the fiddle my husband took up the bagpipes!He had always said he wanted to play them so as a bit of a laugh some friends bought him a cheap set for his sixty fifth birthday !Then another friend turned up and said if he really wanted to learn to get himself a chanter (thats a pipe a bit like a recorder )and he would teach him !Now six years on I am still being serenaded by the pipes on a monday evening though he still hasn’t got good enough to play the black bear up and down the road on New Years Eve !!Probably to the relief of the neighbours !

    Reply
  90. I admit to thinking about taking courses various and then never getting there !My excuse is living out here in the sticks its always quite a distance to go .Probably not when looking at distances in Australia and the states but English country lanes in the dark are not fun !!Thats my excuse and I am sticking to it !
    On the subject of your friend who took up the fiddle my husband took up the bagpipes!He had always said he wanted to play them so as a bit of a laugh some friends bought him a cheap set for his sixty fifth birthday !Then another friend turned up and said if he really wanted to learn to get himself a chanter (thats a pipe a bit like a recorder )and he would teach him !Now six years on I am still being serenaded by the pipes on a monday evening though he still hasn’t got good enough to play the black bear up and down the road on New Years Eve !!Probably to the relief of the neighbours !

    Reply
  91. I love taking classes, and for much the same reason as your friend… it exercises the other half of my brain and relaxes the bit that gets fried at work. If I’m not in a class, I sew :). The last class I really enjoyed was week-long workshop with Ann Small in April… inspiring and so much fun. If your doing these classes means we get more books, Anne, I’ll be happy :).

    Reply
  92. I love taking classes, and for much the same reason as your friend… it exercises the other half of my brain and relaxes the bit that gets fried at work. If I’m not in a class, I sew :). The last class I really enjoyed was week-long workshop with Ann Small in April… inspiring and so much fun. If your doing these classes means we get more books, Anne, I’ll be happy :).

    Reply
  93. I love taking classes, and for much the same reason as your friend… it exercises the other half of my brain and relaxes the bit that gets fried at work. If I’m not in a class, I sew :). The last class I really enjoyed was week-long workshop with Ann Small in April… inspiring and so much fun. If your doing these classes means we get more books, Anne, I’ll be happy :).

    Reply
  94. I love taking classes, and for much the same reason as your friend… it exercises the other half of my brain and relaxes the bit that gets fried at work. If I’m not in a class, I sew :). The last class I really enjoyed was week-long workshop with Ann Small in April… inspiring and so much fun. If your doing these classes means we get more books, Anne, I’ll be happy :).

    Reply
  95. I love taking classes, and for much the same reason as your friend… it exercises the other half of my brain and relaxes the bit that gets fried at work. If I’m not in a class, I sew :). The last class I really enjoyed was week-long workshop with Ann Small in April… inspiring and so much fun. If your doing these classes means we get more books, Anne, I’ll be happy :).

    Reply
  96. Anne, I enjoy the company of others in the class, too — I get to meet people I otherwise wouldn’t, as well as learning new skills. Ages ago I did a pearl knotting class, and one of the women in the class was a trainee jeweler and in the lunch break she took another woman and me to several wholesale jewelry supply stores — a little piece of “insiders” knowledge that has been invaluable to me.
    Ellie, that sounds like a wonderful class. I can feel my feet itching, just reading about it. 🙂

    Reply
  97. Anne, I enjoy the company of others in the class, too — I get to meet people I otherwise wouldn’t, as well as learning new skills. Ages ago I did a pearl knotting class, and one of the women in the class was a trainee jeweler and in the lunch break she took another woman and me to several wholesale jewelry supply stores — a little piece of “insiders” knowledge that has been invaluable to me.
    Ellie, that sounds like a wonderful class. I can feel my feet itching, just reading about it. 🙂

    Reply
  98. Anne, I enjoy the company of others in the class, too — I get to meet people I otherwise wouldn’t, as well as learning new skills. Ages ago I did a pearl knotting class, and one of the women in the class was a trainee jeweler and in the lunch break she took another woman and me to several wholesale jewelry supply stores — a little piece of “insiders” knowledge that has been invaluable to me.
    Ellie, that sounds like a wonderful class. I can feel my feet itching, just reading about it. 🙂

    Reply
  99. Anne, I enjoy the company of others in the class, too — I get to meet people I otherwise wouldn’t, as well as learning new skills. Ages ago I did a pearl knotting class, and one of the women in the class was a trainee jeweler and in the lunch break she took another woman and me to several wholesale jewelry supply stores — a little piece of “insiders” knowledge that has been invaluable to me.
    Ellie, that sounds like a wonderful class. I can feel my feet itching, just reading about it. 🙂

    Reply
  100. Anne, I enjoy the company of others in the class, too — I get to meet people I otherwise wouldn’t, as well as learning new skills. Ages ago I did a pearl knotting class, and one of the women in the class was a trainee jeweler and in the lunch break she took another woman and me to several wholesale jewelry supply stores — a little piece of “insiders” knowledge that has been invaluable to me.
    Ellie, that sounds like a wonderful class. I can feel my feet itching, just reading about it. 🙂

    Reply
  101. Diane, those sound like excellent classes. I’m not game to start scrap-booking, though — a friend of mine is addicted and I know I’d be the same , so I’m not going there. 🙂
    But flower arranging and cookery, those I’d love. My eldest sister is the flower arranger in my family.

    Reply
  102. Diane, those sound like excellent classes. I’m not game to start scrap-booking, though — a friend of mine is addicted and I know I’d be the same , so I’m not going there. 🙂
    But flower arranging and cookery, those I’d love. My eldest sister is the flower arranger in my family.

    Reply
  103. Diane, those sound like excellent classes. I’m not game to start scrap-booking, though — a friend of mine is addicted and I know I’d be the same , so I’m not going there. 🙂
    But flower arranging and cookery, those I’d love. My eldest sister is the flower arranger in my family.

    Reply
  104. Diane, those sound like excellent classes. I’m not game to start scrap-booking, though — a friend of mine is addicted and I know I’d be the same , so I’m not going there. 🙂
    But flower arranging and cookery, those I’d love. My eldest sister is the flower arranger in my family.

    Reply
  105. Diane, those sound like excellent classes. I’m not game to start scrap-booking, though — a friend of mine is addicted and I know I’d be the same , so I’m not going there. 🙂
    But flower arranging and cookery, those I’d love. My eldest sister is the flower arranger in my family.

    Reply
  106. Jo, I’m with you on driving along English country lanes in the dark. I was quite er, tense, when being driven along them by an elderly man in broad daylight at scary MPH — with NO visibility ahead, because of hedges and twists and turns. I’m not a timid driver or passenger, usually, but if I’d been driving I would have been much slower and more cautious.
    I love the bagpipes and think it’s wonderful that your husband can play them. I love The Black Bear, too. Do you do the Oy! in it? I always do. 🙂

    Reply
  107. Jo, I’m with you on driving along English country lanes in the dark. I was quite er, tense, when being driven along them by an elderly man in broad daylight at scary MPH — with NO visibility ahead, because of hedges and twists and turns. I’m not a timid driver or passenger, usually, but if I’d been driving I would have been much slower and more cautious.
    I love the bagpipes and think it’s wonderful that your husband can play them. I love The Black Bear, too. Do you do the Oy! in it? I always do. 🙂

    Reply
  108. Jo, I’m with you on driving along English country lanes in the dark. I was quite er, tense, when being driven along them by an elderly man in broad daylight at scary MPH — with NO visibility ahead, because of hedges and twists and turns. I’m not a timid driver or passenger, usually, but if I’d been driving I would have been much slower and more cautious.
    I love the bagpipes and think it’s wonderful that your husband can play them. I love The Black Bear, too. Do you do the Oy! in it? I always do. 🙂

    Reply
  109. Jo, I’m with you on driving along English country lanes in the dark. I was quite er, tense, when being driven along them by an elderly man in broad daylight at scary MPH — with NO visibility ahead, because of hedges and twists and turns. I’m not a timid driver or passenger, usually, but if I’d been driving I would have been much slower and more cautious.
    I love the bagpipes and think it’s wonderful that your husband can play them. I love The Black Bear, too. Do you do the Oy! in it? I always do. 🙂

    Reply
  110. Jo, I’m with you on driving along English country lanes in the dark. I was quite er, tense, when being driven along them by an elderly man in broad daylight at scary MPH — with NO visibility ahead, because of hedges and twists and turns. I’m not a timid driver or passenger, usually, but if I’d been driving I would have been much slower and more cautious.
    I love the bagpipes and think it’s wonderful that your husband can play them. I love The Black Bear, too. Do you do the Oy! in it? I always do. 🙂

    Reply
  111. Jane I think doing some kind of practical thing is so relaxing, especially if it’s a change from your work. This like sewing and fiddling with small things and concentrating on something fiddly gives other parts of your brain a rest.
    My mother and godmother worked full time all their lives, and they always spent their evenings sewing or knitting — as well as keeping the housework and cooking under control. Maybe that’s why for me, simply sitting and watching TV feels wrong — I have to be doing something.

    Reply
  112. Jane I think doing some kind of practical thing is so relaxing, especially if it’s a change from your work. This like sewing and fiddling with small things and concentrating on something fiddly gives other parts of your brain a rest.
    My mother and godmother worked full time all their lives, and they always spent their evenings sewing or knitting — as well as keeping the housework and cooking under control. Maybe that’s why for me, simply sitting and watching TV feels wrong — I have to be doing something.

    Reply
  113. Jane I think doing some kind of practical thing is so relaxing, especially if it’s a change from your work. This like sewing and fiddling with small things and concentrating on something fiddly gives other parts of your brain a rest.
    My mother and godmother worked full time all their lives, and they always spent their evenings sewing or knitting — as well as keeping the housework and cooking under control. Maybe that’s why for me, simply sitting and watching TV feels wrong — I have to be doing something.

    Reply
  114. Jane I think doing some kind of practical thing is so relaxing, especially if it’s a change from your work. This like sewing and fiddling with small things and concentrating on something fiddly gives other parts of your brain a rest.
    My mother and godmother worked full time all their lives, and they always spent their evenings sewing or knitting — as well as keeping the housework and cooking under control. Maybe that’s why for me, simply sitting and watching TV feels wrong — I have to be doing something.

    Reply
  115. Jane I think doing some kind of practical thing is so relaxing, especially if it’s a change from your work. This like sewing and fiddling with small things and concentrating on something fiddly gives other parts of your brain a rest.
    My mother and godmother worked full time all their lives, and they always spent their evenings sewing or knitting — as well as keeping the housework and cooking under control. Maybe that’s why for me, simply sitting and watching TV feels wrong — I have to be doing something.

    Reply
  116. Your porcelain pieces look lovely, Anne! I would love to take a class like that.
    I have been a lifelong student. I have four degrees (all in music,) and I nearly did a masters in German and Russian until I discovered I had to write another thesis and after all of the ones I’d done I was too burned out to consider it. I may go back and do it yet as a tribute to my fabulous German and Russian professor.
    I LOVE taking workshops at RWA. I’ve had a former critique partner tell me they were useless and she never learned anything, but I have gotten so much out of the ones I’ve attended through my chapter, online, at RWA and at Moonlight and Magnolias. Frankly, if you learn even one thing or get even one idea that makes you a better writer then the course was worth taking – or at least that is my point of view.
    I taught my first workshop at the Beau Monde Mini Conference at RWA this year and I really enjoyed teaching it.
    There are all sorts of classes I would like to take if only I had the time. Perhaps once I write my way out of Walmart I will be able to take those arts and crafts courses at our community center. And there is a Master Gardener certification program I would love to take as well!

    Reply
  117. Your porcelain pieces look lovely, Anne! I would love to take a class like that.
    I have been a lifelong student. I have four degrees (all in music,) and I nearly did a masters in German and Russian until I discovered I had to write another thesis and after all of the ones I’d done I was too burned out to consider it. I may go back and do it yet as a tribute to my fabulous German and Russian professor.
    I LOVE taking workshops at RWA. I’ve had a former critique partner tell me they were useless and she never learned anything, but I have gotten so much out of the ones I’ve attended through my chapter, online, at RWA and at Moonlight and Magnolias. Frankly, if you learn even one thing or get even one idea that makes you a better writer then the course was worth taking – or at least that is my point of view.
    I taught my first workshop at the Beau Monde Mini Conference at RWA this year and I really enjoyed teaching it.
    There are all sorts of classes I would like to take if only I had the time. Perhaps once I write my way out of Walmart I will be able to take those arts and crafts courses at our community center. And there is a Master Gardener certification program I would love to take as well!

    Reply
  118. Your porcelain pieces look lovely, Anne! I would love to take a class like that.
    I have been a lifelong student. I have four degrees (all in music,) and I nearly did a masters in German and Russian until I discovered I had to write another thesis and after all of the ones I’d done I was too burned out to consider it. I may go back and do it yet as a tribute to my fabulous German and Russian professor.
    I LOVE taking workshops at RWA. I’ve had a former critique partner tell me they were useless and she never learned anything, but I have gotten so much out of the ones I’ve attended through my chapter, online, at RWA and at Moonlight and Magnolias. Frankly, if you learn even one thing or get even one idea that makes you a better writer then the course was worth taking – or at least that is my point of view.
    I taught my first workshop at the Beau Monde Mini Conference at RWA this year and I really enjoyed teaching it.
    There are all sorts of classes I would like to take if only I had the time. Perhaps once I write my way out of Walmart I will be able to take those arts and crafts courses at our community center. And there is a Master Gardener certification program I would love to take as well!

    Reply
  119. Your porcelain pieces look lovely, Anne! I would love to take a class like that.
    I have been a lifelong student. I have four degrees (all in music,) and I nearly did a masters in German and Russian until I discovered I had to write another thesis and after all of the ones I’d done I was too burned out to consider it. I may go back and do it yet as a tribute to my fabulous German and Russian professor.
    I LOVE taking workshops at RWA. I’ve had a former critique partner tell me they were useless and she never learned anything, but I have gotten so much out of the ones I’ve attended through my chapter, online, at RWA and at Moonlight and Magnolias. Frankly, if you learn even one thing or get even one idea that makes you a better writer then the course was worth taking – or at least that is my point of view.
    I taught my first workshop at the Beau Monde Mini Conference at RWA this year and I really enjoyed teaching it.
    There are all sorts of classes I would like to take if only I had the time. Perhaps once I write my way out of Walmart I will be able to take those arts and crafts courses at our community center. And there is a Master Gardener certification program I would love to take as well!

    Reply
  120. Your porcelain pieces look lovely, Anne! I would love to take a class like that.
    I have been a lifelong student. I have four degrees (all in music,) and I nearly did a masters in German and Russian until I discovered I had to write another thesis and after all of the ones I’d done I was too burned out to consider it. I may go back and do it yet as a tribute to my fabulous German and Russian professor.
    I LOVE taking workshops at RWA. I’ve had a former critique partner tell me they were useless and she never learned anything, but I have gotten so much out of the ones I’ve attended through my chapter, online, at RWA and at Moonlight and Magnolias. Frankly, if you learn even one thing or get even one idea that makes you a better writer then the course was worth taking – or at least that is my point of view.
    I taught my first workshop at the Beau Monde Mini Conference at RWA this year and I really enjoyed teaching it.
    There are all sorts of classes I would like to take if only I had the time. Perhaps once I write my way out of Walmart I will be able to take those arts and crafts courses at our community center. And there is a Master Gardener certification program I would love to take as well!

    Reply
  121. I’ve taken lots of craft classes, Anne, but the one that stands out the most for me was a faux metal class. It was totally different to every other class I’ve even taken, and we made a fabulous faux metal journal.
    I find taking craft classes quite relaxing – most of the time!
    Love your earrings, and the Bijoux Porcelain looks fabulous!

    Reply
  122. I’ve taken lots of craft classes, Anne, but the one that stands out the most for me was a faux metal class. It was totally different to every other class I’ve even taken, and we made a fabulous faux metal journal.
    I find taking craft classes quite relaxing – most of the time!
    Love your earrings, and the Bijoux Porcelain looks fabulous!

    Reply
  123. I’ve taken lots of craft classes, Anne, but the one that stands out the most for me was a faux metal class. It was totally different to every other class I’ve even taken, and we made a fabulous faux metal journal.
    I find taking craft classes quite relaxing – most of the time!
    Love your earrings, and the Bijoux Porcelain looks fabulous!

    Reply
  124. I’ve taken lots of craft classes, Anne, but the one that stands out the most for me was a faux metal class. It was totally different to every other class I’ve even taken, and we made a fabulous faux metal journal.
    I find taking craft classes quite relaxing – most of the time!
    Love your earrings, and the Bijoux Porcelain looks fabulous!

    Reply
  125. I’ve taken lots of craft classes, Anne, but the one that stands out the most for me was a faux metal class. It was totally different to every other class I’ve even taken, and we made a fabulous faux metal journal.
    I find taking craft classes quite relaxing – most of the time!
    Love your earrings, and the Bijoux Porcelain looks fabulous!

    Reply
  126. I love the black bear and was quite disappointed when we went to the Edinburgh tattoo this summer that they only played it as the massed bands went out and being at the opposite end of the esplanade only got to hear a little of it.Definitely include an oy and a few whay hays !!

    Reply
  127. I love the black bear and was quite disappointed when we went to the Edinburgh tattoo this summer that they only played it as the massed bands went out and being at the opposite end of the esplanade only got to hear a little of it.Definitely include an oy and a few whay hays !!

    Reply
  128. I love the black bear and was quite disappointed when we went to the Edinburgh tattoo this summer that they only played it as the massed bands went out and being at the opposite end of the esplanade only got to hear a little of it.Definitely include an oy and a few whay hays !!

    Reply
  129. I love the black bear and was quite disappointed when we went to the Edinburgh tattoo this summer that they only played it as the massed bands went out and being at the opposite end of the esplanade only got to hear a little of it.Definitely include an oy and a few whay hays !!

    Reply
  130. I love the black bear and was quite disappointed when we went to the Edinburgh tattoo this summer that they only played it as the massed bands went out and being at the opposite end of the esplanade only got to hear a little of it.Definitely include an oy and a few whay hays !!

    Reply
  131. I did a cake decorating class years ago with my mom and sister and we had a riot! Your classes sound like fun–maybe I should get back into it.

    Reply
  132. I did a cake decorating class years ago with my mom and sister and we had a riot! Your classes sound like fun–maybe I should get back into it.

    Reply
  133. I did a cake decorating class years ago with my mom and sister and we had a riot! Your classes sound like fun–maybe I should get back into it.

    Reply
  134. I did a cake decorating class years ago with my mom and sister and we had a riot! Your classes sound like fun–maybe I should get back into it.

    Reply
  135. I did a cake decorating class years ago with my mom and sister and we had a riot! Your classes sound like fun–maybe I should get back into it.

    Reply
  136. I love taking classes but somehow I have more enthusiasm than time and end up not finishing the projects I start! Thank you for sharing the things you have been doing, that is impressive jewelry that you have made!

    Reply
  137. I love taking classes but somehow I have more enthusiasm than time and end up not finishing the projects I start! Thank you for sharing the things you have been doing, that is impressive jewelry that you have made!

    Reply
  138. I love taking classes but somehow I have more enthusiasm than time and end up not finishing the projects I start! Thank you for sharing the things you have been doing, that is impressive jewelry that you have made!

    Reply
  139. I love taking classes but somehow I have more enthusiasm than time and end up not finishing the projects I start! Thank you for sharing the things you have been doing, that is impressive jewelry that you have made!

    Reply
  140. I love taking classes but somehow I have more enthusiasm than time and end up not finishing the projects I start! Thank you for sharing the things you have been doing, that is impressive jewelry that you have made!

    Reply
  141. Anne, I failed to mention I was 35 when I started to help Harry with his college courses, I had been working since the age of 15 with positions I considered Blessed…jobs that I enjoyed so much and grateful that I did. And with a mother and grandmother that taught sewing skills or knitting, quilting, drawing etc…I was never at a loss of doing anything that didn’t bring me comfort or joy…even today, I still enjoy making dolls or quilts or even cutting out SILHOUETTES!

    Reply
  142. Anne, I failed to mention I was 35 when I started to help Harry with his college courses, I had been working since the age of 15 with positions I considered Blessed…jobs that I enjoyed so much and grateful that I did. And with a mother and grandmother that taught sewing skills or knitting, quilting, drawing etc…I was never at a loss of doing anything that didn’t bring me comfort or joy…even today, I still enjoy making dolls or quilts or even cutting out SILHOUETTES!

    Reply
  143. Anne, I failed to mention I was 35 when I started to help Harry with his college courses, I had been working since the age of 15 with positions I considered Blessed…jobs that I enjoyed so much and grateful that I did. And with a mother and grandmother that taught sewing skills or knitting, quilting, drawing etc…I was never at a loss of doing anything that didn’t bring me comfort or joy…even today, I still enjoy making dolls or quilts or even cutting out SILHOUETTES!

    Reply
  144. Anne, I failed to mention I was 35 when I started to help Harry with his college courses, I had been working since the age of 15 with positions I considered Blessed…jobs that I enjoyed so much and grateful that I did. And with a mother and grandmother that taught sewing skills or knitting, quilting, drawing etc…I was never at a loss of doing anything that didn’t bring me comfort or joy…even today, I still enjoy making dolls or quilts or even cutting out SILHOUETTES!

    Reply
  145. Anne, I failed to mention I was 35 when I started to help Harry with his college courses, I had been working since the age of 15 with positions I considered Blessed…jobs that I enjoyed so much and grateful that I did. And with a mother and grandmother that taught sewing skills or knitting, quilting, drawing etc…I was never at a loss of doing anything that didn’t bring me comfort or joy…even today, I still enjoy making dolls or quilts or even cutting out SILHOUETTES!

    Reply

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