Writing Workshop

In my attempt to say "yes" to everything social and fun in the run up to the move, I went to Jane Austen House Museum yesterday for a brilliant Writing Workshop led by author Rebecca Smith, aided by Reader and volunteer Olive Drakes.

Sunshine, coffee, biscuits and writing - an almost perfect day.

One exercise focused on using postcard prompts and working within the theme of Arriving. I choose this rather elegant postcard of a smart couple and a distant tropical island, and wrote 3 postcards from the woman to her friend:

Cissy
Arrived safely. What a journey! Train to Southampton then ship to Windies. Delightful cabin all compact and cleverly designed to provide everything one could desire. First night dinner at Captain's table a bore as sat next to a Rev Payne. Still must do one's duty. Hotel marvellous! All staff smart in crisp whites. Dark skin a shock - how their teeth shine! Hal resting while I dash off letters. Blissy-bags to feel the sun on my back!
In haste Cyn!

Dear Cissy
Days settled into routine. Up early. Walk along beach then breakfast in room. Hal off to club. I to hotel lobby for coffee and letters. Lunch at club then Hal rests. Too, too hot. Even sand burns feet. Reading Evelyn Waugh - rather turgid! Swim in the sea. Pestered by smiling hawkers. Then back to hotel to prepare for dinner. Evenings spent on hotel verandah with Hal and new chums Audrey and Geoffrey Payton-Smythe - from Sheffield of all places!
Love Cyn

Dearest Cissy
The sun is evil. Saps all my energy. Hardly written anything today. Can't wait to be home. You will meet us at Southampton, won't you? Longing for rain and home
Much love Cyn x