On Vegas and Learning
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Hello Friends, Years ago, I used to boast that the only times I’d been to Las Vegas were while passing through en route to protest at the Nevada Nuclear Test Site. I can’t say that anymore. These days, I go to Vegas far more often than I ever wanted to, which was never. I don’t go to shows while there. I don’t gamble. And since my brain injury, I don’t even drink alcohol. Also, I’m an introvert who dislikes crowds and noise, cigarette smoke, and desert air. I know some people love it, but for me—physically and psychically—Vegas is brutal. So why do I go? I go to hang out with writers, sometimes to talk craft, and other times, business. I go to Vegas to step past the edges of my comfort zone. Vegas is a massive shift away from my usual writerly life. It's a hostile-to-me environment where I talk to strangers and old friends, and stretch myself to learn something new. This past week, I masked up and attended Author Nation with nine hundred other writers. I moderated an LGBTQ panel, sat on a Kickstarter panel, took notes during session after session, and had many conversations in the hallways, on walks, and over meals. I learned a lot that I plan to sift through over the next several months. And now? I feel exhausted, but inspired and full. And really need to do some laundry. As a result, I don’t have much to say today, but wanted to share some of the photos I snapped while there. I hope you are keeping well and taking care of yourself. I'd also like to know: What takes you out of your comfort zone and helps you learn new things? Best wishes — Thorn There's a new podcast episode! This one with artist, crafter, and witch Raven Edgewalker. Enjoy on your favorite podcast outlet or YouTube. If you listen on iTunes, might you consider leaving a quick review?
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T. Thorn Coyle
Hello friends, Folklore tells us of magical cities and villages that appear out of nowhere, and disappear again. I like to think that these stories are rooted in real events and real communities. I myself, have found magic in such places, time and time again. Last week, I was off grid at a lovely camping event in a small valley surrounded by tree filled mountains. There was a creek, and on the forest paths, some community members had planted ceramic toadstools, squirrels embracing acorns, and...
Hello friends, As you read this, I'm out camping with friends outside of cell and wifi range. So, to simplify things this week, I'm leaving you one photo and a podcast! First, the photo. It's from one of those moments where I'm reminded, once again, amidst the very real horrors, how much I love this world. Just look at that bumblebee on those bright pink sweat pea flowers. Amazing, yes? Photo: Bumblebee on Sweetpeas Next, I wanted to share the latest episode of Magic, Creativity, and Life....
Hello friends, There’s an artist—or perhaps an arts collective—here in the Pacific Northwest that makes wooden dragon heads with glass teeth and jeweled eyes made of old CDs. The dragons are always painted in bold colors, and attached high up wood utility poles, so it seems as if they are roaring to the sky. I love that part. The roaring to the sky, part. I also love how bright and colorful these dragons are, and how carefully thought out, even if they are made of scraps of wood and outdated...