Wednesday, June 13, 2007

Magical Words = Magical Weekend

Here’s an interesting contest for prose writers, with a chance to win a weekend for two at the beautiful Morrison House Hotel in Alexandria, Virginia. I’ve only been there for dinner, but the experience was charming. This place is like the house you wish your rich grandmother owned (if you had a rich grandmother). If you win, let me know, and I’ll give you some spots to hit in Old Town, which is one of my favorite places in the DC area, and is the setting for my novel-in-progress. (Hey, Morrison House…since you seem to be supportive of writers, it’s not too late—I can work you into Prodigal Daughters for a small fee!)

Check out these guidelines: Morrison House Hotel Short Story Contest

Each Kimpton hotel has a distinct personality and a soul of its own – a story. The stories are varied and colorful; wine, art, history, food, and architecture to name a few. Each unique story promises you adventure, inspiration, and delightful surprises while offering the familiarity and style of the Kimpton Hotels brand.

The story of Morrison House is Literature: Morrison House, an elegant 4-star, 4 diamond boutique hotel, is nestled in the heart of old town Alexandria, Virginia – an area rich with legend and history. It's a place that causes visitors to reflect on the stories and historical significance of what lies before them. One wonders who once lived in the charming historic row houses and what lives unfolded in the exquisite buildings noted for their Georgian architecture. Likewise, literature ask us to pause and reflect on the stories of the characters therein and even of the author. Morrison House serves as the perfect civilized retreat for literary pursuits in contrast to the intensity and fast pace of nearby Washington DC. The attentive staff, period furniture, soothing colors, and many cozy nooks all create an escape conducive to relaxation and reading. The Library is an inviting room whose only designation it is to host those with a passion for books and literature. We invite you to curl up with a good book and enjoy your stay at Morrison House. We hope it's only one of many chapters with us.

All are invited to enter our Morrison House Short Story Contest. The winner will receive a weekend stay for two, breakfast one morning and parking at the Morrison House in Alexandria. The second place winner will receive a $50 gift certificate. The third place winner will receive a $25 gift certificate.

Rules
Submit one fiction or non-fiction short story [sic] about the Morrison House.
Stories should not exceed more than 3,000 words.
Deadline July 31, 2007; winners will be notified by August 31, 2007.
All stories must be accompanied by an entry form; download entry form here.

Work-in-Progress

DC-area author Leslie Pietrzyk explores the creative process and all things literary.