Monday, June 13, 2016

A Gathering of Women

My mother and Gram. 

My grandmother (or "Gram," as she liked to be called) was one of those ladies who was up for anything. Besides working full time and raising my dad, she loved to swim, play lawn bowls and get together with her female pals Martha, Lois, Gertrude, Kitty and Jan. A cancer survivor, she outlived two husbands (both popular Portland-area bandleaders) and her beloved son, who was her only child. 

This warm, feisty woman made a big impact on everyone in our family. For me, I felt especially happy to know that Gram liked the fact that I was a writer. Although she died five years ago (at the age of 101), to this day her past support help gives me the courage to begin filling yet another blank page with words or to stand up in front of a room full of strangers and read a newly published poem.

In the spirit of Gram and her unceasing encouragement, I'm offering a new creative writing class for women this summer. Like most of the classes I teach, this one will focus on self-expression, providing creative inspiration, practice, and support.

Creative Writing for Women
Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
July 5, 12, 19 & 26
TaborSpace, 5441 SE Belmont

$12 per class, drop-in; $40 for the 4-week session