Running Away is Good for the Soul

Okay, running away is a little melodramatic to describe what I did. Really, I was running toward peace and tranquility. The crazy week at work before had nothing to do with it. (Incidentally, thanks to Karen, my beloved sis who handled a few crises by herself while I traipsed off to the Blue Ridge mountains for my writers retreat.)

My escape marks the begining of my birthday celebration. Come on, it's the big 4-0. I had to start a month early. The trip was a gift from dad, and what a great gift. It wasn't just that I had three days to do nothing but write. I got to spend those days in the company of other writers. I can't begin to express what a valuable experience it is to spend time in the company of people who share your passion. I highly recommend it, whether your passion is collecting Civil War era coins, stock car racing, or writing. I owe a huge debt of gratitude to Kristen and Darin Gillenwater, owners of the fabulous Meadowood Bed and Breakfast, who hosted this retreat. As writers, they wanted to create a place for writers to gather, share ideas and inspiration, and learn from published authors. As luck would have it, their B&B is located in the Blue Ridge mountains, on 20 acres of gorgeous mountain. The vista from their front porch every day filled my soul with peace and tranquility. It was really hard to leave.

The retreat was a small, intimate gathering... just my style. I had plenty of one on one time with Cindy Holby and Inglath Cooper, the two writers who gave talks on craft, and then shared their personal experiences in the publishing world. What a gift. Both women are fantastic, and I encourage you to check them out.

And the next time you feel a hankering to go spend a few days in the mountains, visit Kristen and Darin. A little mountain getaway is always good for the soul.