What were you doing this time last year? I remember exactly where I was— studying creative writing at summer school at Exeter College, Oxford University.
Exeter College Oxford
It’s not often I recall being somewhere and feel a leap of joy. Usually I feel nostalgic, sad that I’m no longer there, or missing friends. Every time I think of my time at Oxford, it matches the thrill of delight that I feel when I’m coming home to my husband after a few weeks apart.
Abby, Anna, Aparna and Joan.
Absence does make the heart grow fonder. I really loved my time at Oxford. I enjoyed being stretched in my writing. I loved the town, and living in a college. I adored the people I met from all over the world who shared my passion for writing. I revelled in being a student again in advanced adulthood in the midst of 20 somethings just starting out.
Graduating Students
I would have loved to have been going back to begin a Masters degree, but it wasn’t to be. I feel disappointed, but not crushed. I’ll always have the summer of 2013 and the memories of it will sustain me.
Christ Church Oxford
I am, however, about to go another adventure in September—this time to Tuscany and a writing retreat near Florence. I’m looking forward to stepping out of my comfort zone once more and into the world of writing in one of my favourite regions of the world.
I am truly blessed to live the life I do—writing, travelling and volunteering all give me the greatest satisfaction. Who knows where this one will lead?
