A Writers’ Retreat

Writer it's cold out here

Writer it’s cold out here

Shelley Banks http://shelleybanks.ca/,

Linda Biasotto (Sweet Life to be released by Coteau Books, spring 2014) https://www.facebook.com/lbiasotto and I made another pilgrimage to a place of quiet away from our regular lives so we can concentrate on writing. The funny thing about concentrating is that sometimes it brings up all reasons to procrastinate just like it does in our everyday lives except here we get to talk about them and we get to go back to the work with another insight or a confirmation that we are on the right track. And we don’t have to think about cooking, cleaning, or appointments. Our focus is creative writing.

When I first arrive at a retreat I feel as if I have the whole time and great projects will be completed. Gradually the words do meet the page but so do moments of contemplation open up. And discussions during meals or around a fire or even just staring out the window assist in building ideas that can add depth and breadth to story.

Before I came I had also embarked on an exercise program which dictates walking every day. I brought gear and walking poles but I couldn’t do it outdoors because of the extreme cold. Ever resourceful, I searched the Town of Lumsden and found the establishment of Fitness DownUnder http://www.fitnessdownunder.ca Lani, the owner, came and set up a couple of drop in opportunities. On my second drop-in session I couldn’t open the door and had to call Pip, another contact, who came immediately. I am so impressed with their friendship, the cleanliness and well-equipped gym in this small community. Fitness Down Under

Tomorrow is our last day at St. Michael’s Retreat http://www.stmichaelsretreat.ca/
If you are looking for a place to just be with your creative project give them a call, it might just be the place for you. stmichaels