The retreat was a great success and a needed relief for many of the sisters—especially from the Valley heat! The Jones's cabin near Payson, Arizona, was provided by Kristie Clement of the Westside Stories chapter.

Writing exercises, physical exercises, nature walk, informative classes on writing, sharing, chocolate, critiques, lovely vistas, more chocolate, bonding, writing, staying up all night, tons of food, and a basset hound named Billy were the highlights of this retreat.

The sisters attending were divided into two groups, the Hopelessly Romantics and the Adamantly Adventurous. They were thus named for KP chores and making meals.

Betsy Love and Theresa Sneed planned and facilitated the warm-up exercises every morning and evening outside in the lovely 80-degree-or-less weather. The exercises were creative and a lot of fun.

Our first class, "Dream Your Novel," was presented by Margaret Turley. The second was given be Betsy Love on "Overcoming Writer's Block." We were edified by Theresa Sneed's class on "Verbalicious." Our last class, "Picture Your Story," was given by Harriet Dodge. All of the classes were uplifting and beneficial. We had free time to write and relax, and set times to share our work.

Some of the sisters enjoyed the outdoors and drank up the sounds of nature all around, including birds, squirrels, and even coyotes. Friday it rained and we celebrated by dancing in it.

All in all, our retreat helped us to stretch, increase our writing skills, and enjoy all that God has given us.