Some of our summering writers stay close to home. Rumors are, this region is ideal spot for quiet contemplation, vigorous writing, hikes, walks, drives and more. The days are long and sunny, the temperatures are mild but warm, and the frantic undergraduates (whom we love!) are nowhere to be found. Our second summering MFAer stuck around to enjoy these delights — and to do some regional travel. Here’s second-year Poet Ginger Ko on the best part of her summer: a trip to South Dakota:

“Visiting the Crazy Horse memorial was the most interesting thing I did this summer. Sculpting a stone colossus one dynamite-blast at a time is not unlike my own poetic process.  Also, did you know that they allow dogs inside the museum?”

We did not know that, Ginger. Thanks for sharing!