The Writers' Collective

It’s hot outside. Really, really, really hot.

Do you know what that means?

Time for a summer writing retreat!

So grab your pen and paper, plus your camping gear and pre-packed kit of supplies for S’mores and Banana Boats (don’t have one? You should get on that. Survival equipment is important!).

Writing Home: Kootenay Lake Summer Writing Retreat
 

August 21-August 25, 2011.

 

The Kootenay Lake Writing retreat is designed to nourish you — body mind and soul — and to take your writing to the next level. Daily writing classes take place at an eighty acre heritage farm on pristinely beautiful Kootenay Lake. There is a private beach, canoes, swimming, fishing and hiking available.

Experience the joy of writing in a small and deeply supportive setting. Nourish your body with sumptuous meals. Go for a stroll, a swim, or simply wander. Designed for beginners and experienced writers alike, the Creative Writing Retreat at Kootenay Lake Farm will deepen, inspire, support, and refine your writing life. To allow time and space to address individual needs and interests, each class is limited to ten.

 

 

Tuition

 

$375 – $420 depending on lodging choice.
(includes instruction, meals, one-on-one session with instructor)

Instructor

 

Luanne Armstrong, MFA, Ph.D, is an award winning novelist, editor, and teacher. Luanne is the author of sixteen books, including a memoir, novels, and children’s books. She is an adjunct professor of Creative Writing, teaching online for the University of British Columbia low residency MFA Creative Writing program, where she teaches Creative Nonfiction, and Teaching Creative Writing. She mentors many writers on an ongoing basis. Currently Luanne lives on her organic heritage family farm in the Kootenay region of BC.

Accommodations

 

Tenting spaces with picnic tables and fireplaces are available for participants. Also available, small trailers, or bunk beds in the main house. Campsites are level, beside the lake and accessible by car. The Armstrong farm is a working heritage organic family farm that has been in existence for 80 years. The family welcomes visitors. Food from the farm will form a large part of the menu.

 

For registration and further details, email [email protected] or call 250-223-8203. There are four beds available in the main house. Participants are welcome to camp or bring RV’s. High speed Wi Fi is available in the main house. Please let the organizers know of any dietary preferences well ahead of time. Each meal will have a vegetarian and non-vegetarian option.

 

Writing Home: Kootenay Lake Summer Writing Retreat:

Schedule and Course Outline

Sunday evening, August 21

 

Arrive any time Sunday, get set up, go for a swim, go for a wander, meet the dogs, and settle in.

Dinner will not be served Sunday evening but there will be snacks, tea, coffee, and juice available. All food, as far as possible, will be organic and locally sourced.

7-9 pm: Meet and greet, introductions, review timetable and course outline., set up schedule for one on one meetings, protocol for farm living.

Daily Schedule

Self-serve breakfast 8-9

9-12:  Class

12: to 12:30 pm: Free time

12:30: 1:30 Lunch

1:30-3:00: Writing time

3:00-5 pm Free time unless you have a scheduled meeting with your instructor

5:30 – 7:00 dinner

7:00 – 9 pm Readings

 

Thursday is the same schedule except that the retreat will end Thursday afternoon at 4 pm.  You are welcome to stay longer and if you wish, can join in a celebratory dinner at the Sirdar Pub.