Welcome to Tiny T Ranch

SILENCE-- it'S SO haRD TO COME BY

Years ago, I had the great fortune of being the recipient of a writing residency at Madroño Ranch, which gave me the peace, space, and time to revise one of my books. I've also attended a number of meditation retreats that allowed me the peace, space, and time to clear my mind. I want to extend similar opportunities to those of you trying to get your writing done, but who keep running into the obstacles that day-to-day life throws in your writing path. 

If you would like to come spend some creative time at the ranch, cost ranges from $50-75 per night depending on which space you are occupying—there are rooms in the main house, private campers, a tiny chapel (with a bed in it) and The Willie Nelson Shed. While you aren't obligated to sit at your keyboard the entire time-- feel free to wander the ranch, feed the goats, gather eggs, meditate, hula hoop in the Molly Ivins Pavilion-- there will be set hours of silence so you can work in true peace.

You bring your own food and eat together with other residents in the dining room or alone in your private space, your choice. You will never be forced to be part of a group. At Tiny T Ranch WE HEART INTROVERTS! 

To apply for a residency email: spikegillespie@gmail.com

Occasionally I have room in my schedule to offer one-on-one writing coaching at an additional cost. If you're interested in this option we can discuss your goals and my fees and decide if I'm the right coach for you. 

If you want to know a little bit about my writing career and credentials, here you go: 

I was first published as a weekly columnist for my college newspaper, The Oracle (USF Represent!) From there I went on to a successful three-decade career as a journalist, writing for publications ranging from Veterinary Practice Management (hello post-college magazine internship!) to The New York Times Magazine. My work has also appeared in many other places including National Geographic Traveler, Elle, Self, Playboy, GQ, Real Simple, NYT, Christian Science Monitor, Smithsonian, and Texas Monthly. I've been a columnist for The Dallas Morning News and Texas Co-Op Power Magazine. I've provided commentary for Austin's NPR affiliate KUT. I am also the author of a dozen books. 

I was voted Best NonFiction Writer/Memoirist in Austin by readers of The Austin Chronicle six times.

I have been leading Memoir Writing Workshops for more years than I can remember. I have coached many people through the start-to-finish process of writing a book. I'd love to meet you and talk writing.