Next week I'm going to a place in southeastern Oregon called Frenchglen. It is little more than a wide spot in the road, with a hotel, general store, school, and a few houses, as I understand it. I wouldn't know for sure, because I've never been there.
But I'm greatly enamored of the idea of the place, and I've been thinking of it with anticipation all week. Which is why Frenchglen is my Friday inspiration, because the idea of this series of posts is to write about what has most been on my mind during the week.
And yet, since I've never actually been there, I can't be sure that my idea of the place will jibe with reality. But here's why the idea of the place inspires me:
–Because it is remote. Sometimes I think about just chucking it all and going to live someplace in the middle of nowhere. As long as I have my writing and my books I'd be happy, right? In truth, I'm way too much of a city girl for this to ever happen, but I love that the idea exists in the world.
–Because it is near the mountains. I love, love, love being in the mountains.
–Because it is someplace new. Nothing better than visiting new places to get inspired.
–Because I get to write while I'm there. Nuff said.
–Because there is no internet access. Awk! After I get over the panic, I'm sure this will be very inspiring. Well, I'm sort of sure.
–Because the scenery is supposedly beautiful.
So, there you have it, my Friday inspiration. What inspired you this week? A person, place or thing? A news event? Something related to writing? A book?
*Photo by Cacophony. I found it on Wikipedia.
Patty - Why Not Start Now?
I’m like that too, Charlotte. As much as I’d love to escape the urban life, I know I’d miss all the cool stuff like symphonies and museums and plays. But Frenchglen sounds very intriguing. I do so love getaways to places with no internet connection. In fact I find I need more and more of that lately. I hope your time there is lovely. Oh, and this week I was inspired by a person, someone who is mentoring me. An amazing experience!
Charlotte Dixon
Oh, Patty, being inspired by a person is the best! I think it is what so many of us strive to do and to be the recipient of it is wonderful. And I am often inspired by place as well.
Giulietta the Muse
Hi Charlotte,
Followed you hear from Patty’s blog. Liked your middle name because it implied action. What’s it like to rain dixon?
Frenchglen sounds very cool. I like the concept. Have always wanted to rent a house for a week in a small town in Iowa. Just write and paint and have conversations in old fashioned drug stores with formica counters.
I guess I’m searching for uniqueness, a place with a sense of place rather than feeling like I’m always in the same place as my world becomes more chain-centric.
That’s what appeals to me about your choice of FrenchGlen, the lack of sameness. Have a great time writing there!
Giulietta
Charlotte Dixon
Thanks for visiting, Giulietta! I’ve never thought of my name that way, it is unique way to view it.
I think that Frenchglen is going to be very unique! They say in the winter, it is so rare for a car to drive by on the road that people stare. It will definitely be a unique experience for me!
Angela Artemis
Charlotte,
It sounds like a great place to get away. I get so tired of having to keep up with all the online activities. It very interesting. Let us know how it is when you get back.
Charlotte Dixon
I have to admit, Angela, that I am very nervous at the thought of not having internet. And what if my Iphone doesn’t work there? That’s usually how I get messages if there’s no internet. But I know unplugging will be very, very good for me. I will report for sure when I return!
J.D. Frost
Charlotte, this place may be too remote. Are they able to receive Oregon Duck games? Is it so remote that TV is actually a week behind? Oh, but that’s right: you don’t really care about the Oregon Ducks anyway. So have a good time there.
Charlotte Dixon
Hey, who said I don’t care about the Ducks? Did you notice where they are in the rankings this week? #2, baby! Because that one team that shall remain nameless but is from your home state lost, poor babies. I have to admit I’d be upset if I had to miss the game while I was there, but the Ducks have a bye this week, so I’m golden.
J.D. Frost
I’m sure you knew I was kidding. I haven’t watched your team yet, but that’s on my list. Out of the dynamic duo in my state I am an Auburn guy. I think the last half of the season will be fun. I hope I can hang in. If it gets too tense, I may head for the mountains.
Charlotte Dixon
Well, if you’re an Auburn guy I can relax and like you again, then. And yes the rest of the season is going to be really fun, after all the shaking up last weekend. And yes, I knew you were kidding!