We just wrapped up this year’s Time to Write Writers’ Retreat at beautiful Pinewoods Camp. For four days, twenty writers left our everyday chores and overscheduled lives behind to gather in the woods. We were free to write all day or join optional group activities, such as writing to prompts or critique sessions. In the evenings we came together in front of the fire to share readings, stories and social time. A fabulous cook kept us well-fed throughout.

The retreat was restorative in many ways: jumpstarting writing and providing the opportunity to share our successes, questions, and resources with other writers. Most of all, we reveled in the peace of this magical place: the mist on the pond in the morning, the breeze in the oak and pine trees, the company of birds.

I hope you can find space to step out of your routine for a bit to restore and recenter yourself.

Do you ever go on retreat, even if it’s just a walk in the woods?