Civitella Ranieri gave me the wonderful gift of time. During my stay I was able to approach my book from new angles and explore different paths, knowing I had enough time to change direction and start over as many times as needed. Setting aside the commitments and distractions of everyday life to focus intensely on my writing was invaluable, and to do so while surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Umbria and a supportive, brilliant, and generous community was a true privilege.