Writer's Retreat

I loved the idea of a writer’s retreat. A day or whole weekend away to concentrate just on writing seemed not only like heaven, but increasingly seemed necessary.

But explaining to my better half why spending $500 to write was “necessary” was beyond even my fervid imagination. What to do?  
I created my own writing retreat.
I rented the family cabin at the coast – on  a weekday because that was less expensive – and I invited members of my writing group to attend.
The perfect retreat location will have limited cell phone coverage and no Internet access.  The Marin  and Sonoma Coast of California has both features.

I asked my guests to pay $40 for the day, first to cover the cost of the rental and lunch (I provided lunch) and second because if guests pay; it makes the venture all that more serious, and honors the work they will be doing at the retreat.
I created a schedule for the day to give the retreat some structure.

 If you have new writers who need inspiration and help - then the schedule will help focus and break up the day. At our first retreat, the two (okay it was a small retreat) writers who came had clear needs and they were thrilled with the opportunity to spend concentrated time on their projects.  So we didn’t need to follow the schedule as closely.
 
Here is our schedule:
A Day at the Beach
Writer’s Retreat

Back by popular demand

December 18, 2008
The only thing one can give an artist is leisure in which to work.
To give an artist leisure is actually to take part in his creation.
-Ezra Pound

9:00 AM welcome and introductions
•        Share our writing projects in a general way and what we want to accomplish today

10:00 to 12:00 Write

12:00 lunch and discussion
•        Talk about our work, you are welcome to share your current work for feedback and discussion.                 
We are all obligated to deliver encouraging feedback.

1:00 Break.
•        Walk on the Beach
•        Nap in the sun

2:00 – 4:00 Write
•        Inspirational quotes, ideas and discussion on your own work or ideas for other’s work.
•        Ten Minute Write

4:00
•        Wine and cheese because this is California
•        Walk on the beach
•        Discuss works, ideas for future projects
•        Discuss ideas for the next Writer’s Retreat

The results were excellent!  One writer found the inspiration to re-structure  the first chapter of her novel.  The other participant was able to break through her writer’s block that had lasted for over a year.  I consider that huge success.
And me, I spent the day revising the final draft of my novel Time is of the Essence.

We are planning another retreat for December.
So don’t wait for the time or the money to jump start a project, create something close by; find solitude, sandwiches and sand, and have a wonderful day at your own retreat.