Back to Retreating

2020 took a lot of things away from us, but one thing it killed was the writers' retreat I love attending so much. So, when they announced we were for sure having it this June, I was excited. And when they announced we wouldn't even have to wear masks, I was thrilled.
It was wonderful to be back at Montgomery Bell State Park, to see friends and acquaintances I hadn't seen in two years, to meet even more, and to soak up the writing jokes and atmosphere that comes only when surrounded by other people who think a lot like you do.
This year was special for other reasons, too. For one, I got to "bring" my dear friend Rachel who is in my local writing group. She roomed with Erin Howard and me, and we even got up and went for a hike one morning. Another fun thing that happened was that this was the first time I've gotten to see so many people who are now with Scrivenings Press in person since the company formed last July. We all went out to dinner one night and laughed and joked with each other before heading back for trivia night. They seriously feel like part of my family, and that's one of my favorite parts of having books published with them. Of course, there was the beautiful scenery, good food, and lots and lots of laughter. I always come away from these revitalized and ready to get back to writing. I promise I am giving a writing update next week, because I have been working some between the busyness of summer vacation and everything being open again. Do you have groups of people and places that help you come back from a slump and give you a much-needed boost? Which part of my retreat sounds the most fun?