Master writing teacher John Stifler will return to the Sanctuary for a winter solstice writers retreat, on December 21st and 22nd. We’ll be celebrating the end of the year by diving deep into our writing practice. His third visit this year, John Stifler will be leading us through a series of stimulating writing exercises, great conversation, and supportive feedback. If you are a writer, or want to write, or write more, or write something you’ve thought about writing for a while, this may be the perfect group for you.   

Schedule for this Retreat

Saturday, Dec. 21: An early evening workshop consisting of a 4-6 p.m. session, a break for supper, and then another two-hour session 7-9 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 22:  A full-day of writing

9 a.m. - Noon – Introduction followed by a series of three writing exercises. Each of these begins with a writing prompt and everyone writing in response for 20-25 minutes. Following, anyone may share what they wrote and we take a few moments to respond. We’ll take a 25-minute break somewhere in the middle. 

Noon-1 p.m. Lunch, a walk, yoga and meditation

1:00 - 4:00 p.m. –  An extended writing period, each participant with an objective either chosen by themselves or offered by me. Followed by discussion.

4:00-4:45 – Break. Extra writing time, or time for a walk, conversation with other participants, etc. 

4:45-6 p.m. – General discussion, closing observations and questions, possibly one more short exercise, plus some suggestions for writing on one’s own in the days and weeks ahead. Includes a short list of recommended readings. 

6-8 p.m. – Dinner Party

Homemade, organic, healthy delicious Meals included.

Guests are invited to stay at The Sanctuary the evening of Sat. Dec. 21st.

Suggested donation:

Saturday session: $150

Sunday session: $250

Both days: $300