Friends recommend I apply for residency at Hedgebrook. Hmmmm.... it does sound like heaven.
But looking at the application (with its "what do you want to work on" emphasis) brings me to the uncomfortable realization that Seal up the Thunder is almost done, and so far no new book has lifted its head.
Patience, patience, patience. This sort of thing can't be forced. It's like falling in love. You have to open your heart, but then you have to wait.
And I will be with Thunder, emotionally, for at least another six months. It's just ... putting the manuscript together, more than the contract, more than the publication date, makes it feel as if it will be finished soon.
I will not worry about this. I am not worried about this. Nope. Nope. Not neurotic. Nope.
Erin! You do this each time you get closed to finishing a project. There's lots more where that came from. If you do get any down time, use it to recharge, refill the well, etc. Enjoy!
But (having gone to the site) that Hedgebrook place does sound wonderful. Couldn't you work on the Kate book there for two weeks?
In my heart of hearts I think there's only so many words in me and I've used them up.
Kate ... hmmm. Maybe. I can't see anyone giving me a grant/residence for it, somehow.
That place sounds wonderful - might apply myself.
Couldn't you just say you want to work on germinating your next project, allowing your new book to emerge, or something like that? I think that would be completely valid. It's not like you've never written a book before and would just sit around painting your toenails :)