Sometimes we need to be alone. Sometimes we just need some quiet. A place to think and to be with ourselves. What a concept! I have been stealing moments, hours and sometimes days and nights at this particular blissful place for more than 25 years now.  It has been such a place of healing, and abundant creativity and lovely just-right solitude.

I am hosting a special weekend retreat in a few weeks and I am so excited.  It’s going to be an incredible gathering. We all have a body. They all hold infinite stories inside us. This weekend will be an opportunity to listen to those stories and then bring them into being by:

  • Writing (inspiring prompts will be provided)
  • Making art (collage, paint, calligraphy, origami and more) in the fully stocked Art Cellar
  • Resting or meditating
  • Walking or hiking (there is a wonderful local “tree walk” that includes visiting a number of amazing historic and beautiful trees)
  • Enjoying a massage (optional/additional cost)
  • Being a hermit in the Hermitage (one of my favorite things EVER)

I’m thrilled to announce that special guest Bethany Trombly will be leading an optional session called “Bodymindfull” (how perfect is that?). A dancer and teacher, she has created a method of transformative movement art that “allows people to connect with their body’s wisdom and stories, and to move more consciously, purposefully and meaningfully in their worlds.” She is a joy!

ALSO: Collage artist and author Lindsay Whiting (Living into Art: Journeys Through Collage) will be supporting and inspiring those who are interested in the art of storytelling through collage.

And finally, writer, blogger and artist Wendy Williams will share some of her personal drawings and artwork and how they have helped her heal some of her own body’s deeply held stories.

I am so moved and honored to have these inspiring guests, as well as a group of (so far, only) absolutely wonderful women who will be gathering together in both silence and sharing. I can’t wait.

BIG NEWS: I am able to offer one full scholarship to the event. All lodging, meals and retreat costs paid for.  I can do this for one person. I would preferably like to offer this spot to someone who really wants to attend but would have to travel quite a distance to come. I would also like to hear from people who feel they could really benefit from this retreat, for whatever reason. Tell me your reasons. Tell me your circumstance.  Whoever receives this scholarship will need to provide their own transportation to and from San Rafael, CA, either by foot, bike, plane, train or bus! Email me by this Friday, September 16th at midnight. I’ll be making a decision by Sunday the 18th.