---

Whether you are a beginning writer or a pro, this seminar will help you mine the riches of the people, places and events in your life. Did you really get married on a motorcycle? What was it like to live through a dire illness, or visit Grandma, or dance on a cobblestone street? Would you like to write these stories for your family, to give as gifts, or use in a novel, essay, or memoir? Or maybe just get-it-down for yourself?

I'm working on stories of my own this year. For me, the writing takes all kinds of forms – short stories, personal essays, monologues and one act plays. Whatever form you choose, the important thing is to bring the story to life, to keep your readers engaged.

In this seminar, you will:

• see samples of things others have done with their writing – gifts, family keepsakes, published collections and novels
• recall unique experiences, funny stories and bits of wisdom that your family treasures
• decide where to begin so it is lively and interesting
• learn how to set yourself free – to write even if you're lousy at it
• learn from the writing; yours and others'
• learn skills that are transferable to other types of writing
• get a list of helpful resources
• enjoy the company of others who like to write

Fee: $85, includes materials.

Register with Redbird-Redoak Writing www.redbirdredoak.com/?page_id=1296

---