Life at Trapp

Life at Trapp

by Jan Goldstein, Resident Author

I am concluding my several stays at Trapp as author in residence, completing my new novel set here at this wondrous place on earth. It has been so fortunate to be writing this story, the first of a trilogy, about a couple that meets at Trapp twenty-five years after a brief love affair. There are secrets and surprises and heartbreak and celebration and, of course, all of it takes place along the trails and within the Lodge itself. I was here over New Year's with my wife Bonnie and nine year old daughter, Shira, and I can't tell you the wonder of the snow and mountains. We gathered with everyone outside at midnight, listened to the bell ringing above the Lodge and then witnessed a fireworks display that was astounding.

Working away in my room, I look out at children and adults cross-country skiing out on the trails, their laughter and excitement sparkling in the winter air. This really is a magical place and generations continue to discover and rediscover its wonders. I am thrilled that Sam, Matthew, the Trapp Resident Manager, and the peerless staff are part of my life and I, theirs. I will be joining them in setting up a terrific new addition to the Trapp experience for artists, a one week writers retreat in Spring and Autumn, to be announced. It will be thrilling to help writers discover their muse in this natural setting and share the creative process at Trapp which began as an art center,specifically a music camp at its origin. I recently watched Sam giving an interview outside my window to Good Morning America. As a boy I watched his grandmother Maria speak about her family's connection to the Green Mountains and this beautiful Stowe setting. I know she would be proud of what Johannes and Sam and the rest of the family and staff have done making this a winter wonderland and a gathering spot for all seasons. As a writer, I've been inspired here. How could you not be?

My thanks to all my friends here at Trapp Family Lodge. As an artist in residence at Ireland's National Arts Centre, the Tyrone Guthrie, I know intimately how a setting can inspire you. The Trapp is such a setting and more. I look forward to sharing my new novel THE ONE, with all of you, and to returning to this home away from home.

Cheers, Jan