A sampling of memories from our residents

Residency

Private mentoring

Workshop

M. Murray - British Columbia retreat:  The retreat provided a quiet uninterrupted environment and Mike is a friendly and accommodating host.  I enjoyed walking along the river everyday.

S. Griffis - Folly Beach, SC retreat:  I arrived at the Folly Beach writer's retreat with ten years' worth of research in boxes and a vague idea of where to start. By the end of my first two weeks, I had the entire book outlined and a first draft of three chapters. I went back again a few months later and completed six polished chapters. Mary Ann gives her complete attention to my writing. She an excellent guide to take into the rough waters of writing a book. And Folly Beach is the perfect backdrop. And on top of all that, I was getting a dear friend in the bargain. Mary Ann and the retreat were an amazing gift.          The retreat provided a quiet uninterrupted environment and Mike is a friendly and accomodating host.  I enjoyed walking along the river everyday. 

P. Callahan - Folly Beach, SC retreat:  I highly recommend Folly Beach, I can't wait to return. The cottage was peaceful, the beach was beautiful and relaxing. I can't speak any higher of Mary-Ann, either. She really motivated me--helped me structure a story out of my freewriting, inspired me to write a few drafts and critiqued it at the end. I Left really happy with my fifth draft. I also thought that besides being a great role model and mentor, she went above and beyond as a host. She took me to a poetry reading one night in Charleston, took me on a drive around Folly Island, recommending places to see the sunrise, sunset, and find good local cuisine. I came away from the week feeling as though every writer should experience going away by themselves. I learned so much about my creative process and learned so much from Mary-Ann. With people like Mary-Ann and places like Folly Beach, The Writers' Retreat offers a great deal. I know I will return to Folly Beach in the future. Thanks for this opportunity!

C. Valliere Hord, Ottawa, ON - Québec retreat:  A heart-felt thank you for all you have done to create this environment dedicated to helping us write our dreams real. The waking dream is manifest. This old house tells the stories. This old house firm and dignified, gentle and subtle, colours of the dream, it has such a special feel, and it's REAL! Thanks to you, Micheline, we tap into magic, we work like water flowing, we dine like princes.

S. B. Griffis, Peachtree City, GA - Folly Beach retreat:  I'm in Folly Beach right now and it has been wonderful. Mary Ann Henry has been such an inspiration and motivator. I will be leaving here Thursday with rough draft chapters and outlines for chapters yet to be written. This truly has been a gift to myself! 

C. Sikma, Regina, SK - British Columbia retreat:  Thank you for the wonderful stay in wine country. I loved the scenery and the quiet... and the miracle of wireless Internet. All the best to Michael Hoover and all the writers to come! 

C. Arthur, Northampton, MA - Mexico retreat:  I had a lovely stay at the retreat - once I finally got there! The room at the beach bungalows was very clean & comfortable, though basic as you stated. This was fine, and met my needs very well. I spent most of my time sitting in a lounge chair on the beach with my laptop. I am satisfied with the writing progress that I made during the week. The beach had exactly the effect I had hoped & I was able to break through a writer's block that had been troubling me since last Fall. It was a wonderful retreat! I will highly recommend it to all of my colleagues & hope to be able to repeat it next year. Carlotta. 

P. Marchen, Keene, Ontario - Québec retreat:  The Writers' Retreat filled my needs perfectly. A good breakfast to start the day, a comfortable room to work in, a great bed to sleep in after a good days' work. and did I work! i'm pleased with what I accomplished here and am looking forward to the next stage. Quite possibly you will see me here again, when the real world gives me another opportunity. Thanks so much, Patricia. 

C. Little, Portland, ME - Québec retreat:  The atmosphere here is very conducive to creativity. Thanks for your hospitality; I hope to be back and with more stories to write. Thanks also to Sheila for her insight and support and for making me ask the right questions about my novel, Thanks again, Ciaran. 

F. Doctor, Toronto, ON - Mexico retreat:  The retreat helped me to make some major revisions. I really loved that trip. Maybe Costa Rica or someplace else next… 

C. Gallingher, South Harbor, Nova Scotia  - Costa Rica retreat:  Just a quick note to thank you again for your great hospitality while at the Retreat in Québec. Diquis is ten times more beautiful than the pictures on the Web site. The time at Diquis was very productive, as well as fun - a good balance of work and play, solitude and socializing. Renee and Pierre are gracious hosts. I wish I had a laptop but am still managing to write.  The atmosphere of writing isn't the same here and I appreciate your dedication. Keep writing!

M. Newman, St. Paul, MN  - Costa Rica retreat:  I had a great experience. The site is lovely; the villa was very nice, and Renee is a magnificent cook! I got a lot of writing done and am happy with my work product. 

S. Campbell, Sommerville, MA  - Québec retreat:  I have been so delighted with my time here. You have been thoughtful and delightful. I did work hard and made progress, so I'm pleased. Merci beaucoup. 

E. Gollay, St. Petersburg, Fl  - Québec retreat:  This stay was fabulous. The perfect combination of quiet comfort and fun things to explore. We very much appreciate your hospitality. With any luck, the book writing is now genuinely under way! Thanks. 

S. DeLozier-Yee Yick, Saint Paul, MN - Mexico retreat:  The Casa was just lovely. Zihua has changed so much since my last visit 16 years ago! I strolled along the beach path and up and down the streets of the centro. I was able to find a nice collection of children's books for my classroom, in addition to some wonderful instruments. I wrote at the common space table daily before dawn and again after my siesta in the afternoon. I finished a draft of my first book in a series of three about my time in Ecuador as a Peace Corps Volunteer.  The casa is an ideal setting for any writer.

R. Brasell, St. Petersburg, Fl - Québec retreat:  Thank you so much for making so many things easy for us. Your hospitality is very much appreciated, and I hope we can return in kind. 

L. Reisberg, Arlington, MA - Québec retreat:  Another amazing week here! I accomplished so much. This is the perfect place to write. You have created the perfect environment in the perfect setting. It was great to balance the intensity of writing with spectacular bike rides to enjoy the early autumn colors. Being able to get onto so many bike tours a few steps from the Retreat is just another plus. Thanks again for your support and hospitality. 

S. Akin, New York, NY  - Québec retreat:  Thanks! Thanks! Thanks! Just what I needed: to get away from it all (well, away from NYC!) Perfect balance between work & relaxation. And the Inn, too, strikes the right balance: a home away from home. I felt comfortable working in without being too fussy. Cheers & Thanks! See you again! 

D. Brunet, Ottawa, ON  - Québec retreat:  Thank you for everything. It has helped tremendously being away from home. I always accomplish more with my writing when I stay at the Retreat. 

A. West, Manchester, CT  - Québec retreat:  Merci for everything. Thank you for taking me in on such short notice and for making my stay in the Cantons-de-l'Est both productive and enjoyable.

B. Gitelman, Acton, MA - Québec retreat:  This week has been special in so many ways. Notwithstanding the difficulties I've had with my writing, I've had a truly memorable time, enjoying my illegal romp into the U.S. and back into Canada, the house, the books, the atmosphere, the scenery, the food, and the company of the other writers. But perhaps most of all, I've enjoyed getting to know you Micheline - a strong and interesting woman who has it together in so many ways. What a wonderful memorable evening out last night! I hope we will stay in touch. Look me up in Boston anytime. 

L. Reisberg, Arlington, MA  - Québec retreat:  There is magic here. I don't know how you create it but I am always caught up in it. I do not write so easily anywhere else. Thank you for what you have created here and for the warm welcome and good care. 

B. Newhall, Boston, MA  - Québec retreat:  You truly have created a wonderful retreat - a refuge of peace and beauty where writers can leave their day jobs behind and be writers.  I had a marvelous, relaxing, productive stay. Thank you (and Brownie) for your warmth and hospitality. 

R. Harold, Montpelier, VT - Québec retreat:  What a gift this place is to writers! I so much enjoyed and benefited from my time at the retreat. You are the perfect writer's hostess and it was great to spend time with you. Hope to be back before too long! Thank you so much. 

P. Andrews, New York, NY - Québec retreat:  This was like traveling to France without having to cross the Atlantic! Thank you for exposing me to the beauty of Québec! I am appreciative of the time to unwind, reflect, read and write. Thank you!

T. Banks, Baltimore, MD  - Québec retreat:  This is a beautiful place to rest, write and relax. My time here has exposed me to an area of Canada I would not have seen otherwise. Thanks.

M.A. Irwin, Hercules, CA  - CA retreat: I loved my bungalow. It is perfect for writers who really want to be all alone while they are writing, who do not need or want any interaction with other writers. Pete could not be more solicitous of my comfort or supportive of my creative needs. The work area is in front of a huge window that looks out over 100' tall pines, the Pajaro Valley, the Coastal Mountains in the distance. The hot tub is right out the front door and has the same incredible view. The "tree-house" is a comfortable work space, too, with tables and chairs, and cool breezes on hot days.

N. Fisher, Pinckneyville, IL  - Québec retreat: Thanks for your fantastic stay. Aside from starting a new project, I've been tremendously inspired by the area. Hopefully, I can make it back sometime in the future. Thanks again.

J. Virata, Metro Manila, Philippines  - CO retreat:  I had a wonderful time in Ouray.  Just what I was looking for.  Lovely surroundings, comfortable, cozy place to stay, a trail ride, walks in the woods and plenty of time to read and write and a lovely couple as host.  Paul and Becky couldn't have been more warm, hospitable and really nice to talk to.  I've made some wonderful friends. Thanks for getting me in touch with Paul and Becky.  That was a really big bonus.

A. Dorfman, New York, NY  - Québec retreat:  Merci, thank you so much. My book proposal is well on its way and I know the direction it's heading in. Your retreat is perfect - a wonderful combination of professional attention & understanding with comfy accommodations that make it easy to sit at the computer with nothing else on your mind. You've found a lovely way to welcome people into your home & make it work. Ann.

J. Gordon, AnnHarbor, MI - Québec retreat:  Tony - Thank you for your very attentive reading of my manuscript. I know that I will, for my part, be reading your comments/critique with great attention & hope that we will have time to chat, perhaps on my next visit.

A. Jordan, Springfield, MA - Québec retreat:  This was a wonderful writing, peaceful place to focus on a challenging writing project. Your home is beautiful and comfortable and really conducive to settling down for the writing & agonizing of a large project. I appreciate your periodically but gently checking in with me about my progress as well. Thanks for a great start to my sabattical!

M. J. Walsh, Quinebaug, CT - Québec retreat:  Feels like I'm leaving home, again for points and parts unknown. Got a lot of writing, de-pressurized from Baghdad & got the hard drive re-calibrated. Thank you so much.

M. Cornett, Earlysville, VA - Québec retreat:  How do you do it? I came with one purpose and left with another - one that did not came into focus until my precious time at The Writers' Retreat. What a gift - solitude and community in one magical yellow house, beautifully embellished by flowers, kindness and respect.  Thank you so much.

C. Myers, NYC - Québec retreat:  Thank you both so much for a wonderful stay. Coming here for the first time, my main fear was that I would not actually do any writing. Ha! I don't know whether it's the atmosphere of the place, or your kindness and good humor, but I woke up the first day, had breakfast, and got to work immediately - no mess, no fuss. I've had five productive, relaxing and exciting days here, and I'm 40 pages further along, which just feels fantastic. Tony, thank you for reading my chapters - you're a great editor. 

P. Barksdale, Dover, NH - Québec retreat:  My three days here were short, but I know when I get back to New Hampshire, my view backwards will take on a new dimension, for I absorbed each detail of this setting of benevolence and generosity you have created. I especially appreciated the easy naturalness of both of you. That was most important because I felt such a "poseur" when I arrived here. "Here I am - 'the writer'." It was a difficult position to part myself in since I hadn't written an essay in over ten years. So, thank you so much for providing both me and all the others in this book the opportunity of possibility. Can there be a greater gift?

L. Miller, Parker, TX - Québec retreat:  When I came here four weeks ago, spring had not quite unfolded. Tulips were still tightly wrapped, and so was my heart. Having quiet hours and long days to walk, think, read and search my heart has been an indescribable blessing; and just as spring is now in full bloom in Canada, it now blooms in my heart as well.

Thank you both for welcoming me to this beautiful place and inspiring and encouraging me. I will never forget you or this big beautiful house on Canusa Street, and I certainly won't forget big Brownie. My best wishes to you both in your continued adventures and in following your dreams.  

N. Fontaine, Eastman, Québec - It seems strange, Micheline, to write you "en anglais" given our common origin as Québécoises. But, I want the world to know that writing crosses, and in a way, transcends language barriers. As a French writer, I had visions of myself plodding away in solitary confinement for seven days in a row. That was what I wanted when I reserved a place at your retreat. At the same time, I feared that the charm of writing, day in and day out, in solitary confinement, in a "room of one's own," would wither away. I envied my English colleagues who could seek Tony's advice on their work. All this was nonsense!

Yes, I did spend a lot of time in my room, thinking, working, wondering and, occasionally, despairing. But I also met formidable peoples with whom I discussed the process of writing, the anguish and joy of this vocation and with whom I was able to share many intimate thoughts. And, they, in turn reciprocated. You are included in these friends with whom I hope to build strong ties. 

Tony - the few brief moments I had with you made me want for more. Sooner or later this wish will materialize, I know. Much love to both. You are quite the couple!

C. Johannsen, Bedford Hills, NY - Your gracious hospitality has been a blessing! Thank you for creating this Holy Ground for those of us addicted to pen and keyboard. It has been two weeks of bless. Hard work - but bless.

G. Kosarek, Little Rock, AR - First of all I have to say that coming to the retreat & coming to Canada was the best thing I have ever done! I was able to focus on framing my novel, and will now have the confidence to continue. I may have to listen to French music though, since I found that it "inspired" me as I wrote!

The atmosphere was wonderful and I enjoyed visiting with Brownie! I would love to come back & stay longer than a week. Thanks for the breakfasts, the critique and all of your hospitality. 

R. Lemay, Montreal, Québec - Tony - Thanks for reviving the dormant flame of writing and changing up a sad story to a message of hope and love. Micheline. Merci encore une fois de rendre mon séjour des plus comfortables et absent de toutes les inquiétudes, ce qui rend propice à la concentration et la création. Merci à vous deux.

T. Bradley, Oak Park, IL - Thank you for being such a gracious hostess during my stay at your retreat.  You have a lovely home.  I am pleased to have written close to 8000 edited words.  I could never write that much here!  I appreciated your attending so kindly to my needs. Again, thank you.

C. Kramer, Hyde Park, NY - After three months as resident writer, three months of Micheline wonderful breakfasts, long meetings with Tony, after three months of living with you, I feel I have gained a second home. Oh, and the writing! Concepts I understood only vaguely or ignored came to life. Foreshadowing, brevity, description language, etc. Tony, you've taught me that I can learn these things and that I can write. All together these made my time here a real blessing. Thank you.

M. Cotter, Santa Monica, CA - Not only did the plot of my novel move forward, the plot of my life did as well. Thanks for the quiet, the encouragement and the company.

P. Kang, Boston, MA - Once again I have made significant progress with my work, Thanks to both of you. Micheline, you provided a comfortable retreat where I could work quietly without distractions. The breakfasts are superb! Tony, your interest in my project helps me going despite the obstacles. 

M. Hentges, Montréal, Québec - A heart full of thanks for a critical eye that guided me towards recalibrating my vision of the script and Micheline for providing the details that make a guest feel welcome and indeed, pampered.  Thank you both for creating an environment where the pursuit of the "perfect phrase" is a joy and pleasure to endure...

Micheline, you provided exactly the setting I needed:  a beautiful, gracious place... and someone else to cook for me!  

C. Little, Portland, ME - Thanks to Sheila Post for her insight and support and for making me ask the right questions about my novel, Thanks again, Ciaran. 

C. Shilakowski, Waltham, MA - Writing is a bit of fantasy and a measure of reality. I have learned that here. From your insistence that I use my analytical abilities and show what is real. The camera sees all -- the fantasy is in what I want it to see -- my creation, based on reality.

Likewise, my visit to the Retreat last year was inspiring, a fantasy away from the hustle-bustle of my everyday life. This year the hustle-bustle was here - in the work, the hard work -- the reality of screen writing and in the changing environment (road construction, painting, traffic re-routed) -- the realities of life. The "idea" of writing re-routed into the fact of writing. Thank you for making it REAL. Thank you, Micheline for keeping the "fantasy" alive with hospitality, music, serenity in this mostly chaotic world.

J. Wood, Chelsea, Québec. - As one editor to another, let me say that you have a gift. The gift of listening. To this, you add profound understanding of the writing process and all the "terror and madness of dwelling with the right brain." You have inspired me and given me so much. Micheline, you are the quiet angel of the house. You have created an atmosphere of calm and order - the precise antidote required!! Thank you so much!

L. Forester, Grass Valley, CA - Together you provided me the impetus to work hard on this book until finished - thank you both!  The brilliant guidance around pace of - and connection between - scenes and great story line ideas spur me onward in my work.  The attention and care to every detail a guest could want made the perfect environment for the ideas to develop... Thank you!

L. Staengel, Santa Barbara, CA - Another visit to your wonderful retreat and a step closer to my final manuscript.  As my final draft becomes the beautiful novel I aspired to write, the more grateful I am for your mentorship.  Thank you for the instruction, the ideas and the encouragement to continue on through out the years.  It has become quite a story and more powerful than I had envisioned.

P. L. Moreland, New York, NY. - Thank you so much for everything.  This mentoring retreat turned out to be everything I hoped it would.  Micheline you made me feel catered to and at home.  And Tony, for the first time, I felt someone truly go through the journey of my story.  I've been fighting the "Battle of the Unspoken" for the most part alone, but now I see the possible beginnings of a lifelong friendship & creative ally.  Not only for the work Unspoken, but for other projects and creations in the future.  How does your "Vision" become a reality... Someone else has to see it.  Much thanks & love.

A. van Heughten, Houston, TX. - Many thanks for the snowed-in week of work, talk, laughter and clarity.  I feel very lucky to have found someone so committed to my writing and to the novel I thought was lost.  Can't wait to finish it!  Micheline - Lovely food, quiet time, hospitality.  You make it all possible!  

L. Staengel, Solihull, UK. - I'm back and happy to say I leave so much further ahead.  I have pieced the puzzle and I need to press the edges.  I am thrill with how more the manuscript has developed.  I am extremely grateful for your mentoring because without you it would never be the book it has turned into.  Thank you Micheline for welcoming me into your lovely home.  I'll be back.

L. Staengel, Solihull, UK. - All I can say is thank you again.  To Micheline who made me feel like I never left home, the great food and comfortable ambiance.  And, Tony, my mentor who has helped me develop into a writer.  I can now see my book, no longer a far fetch dream.  I'll be back to finish this book and the others that follows.

M. Girard-Marcy, Québec. - I Now that it's time to leave this nest the words fail me.  Micheline, you have made a home away from home feel like a true refuge... warm, cozy, a true haven.  Tony, you have lavished all this attention and care upon a story I had all but put aside by now.  You have gone far and beyond what I had ever expected.  You've given me back my story, and my hopes.  I cannot thank either of you enough.  I will not forget you

C. Urbain, Milford, CT - I am so fortunate to have a supportive father who needed a caterer, and a friend who didn't want an eight year old to go to France.  Otherwise I never would have found the ideal editor, one who understands how to create a good scene, who knows all about tides and boats, and about the human heart.  Thank you Micheline for your warmth & raspberry jam.  I hope to see you soon.

L. Staengel, Solihull, UK. - Thank you for welcoming me into your lovely home, your country has inspired me to continue sculpturing my manuscript.  I will persevere.  Even more now as I leave better equipped.  Thank you for the continuing mentorship.  I will be back soon to carve the eyes of my novel.

D. Brunet, Montréal, Québec. - Thank you for the past week.  It has been wonderful to know that a retreat now exists in Canada.  I have enjoyed the peace and quiet I needed to start my first real attempt at developing my novel.  I hope to be back soon.

A. Schroeder, Atascadero, CA. - Thank you for the Zihuatanejo connection. The week was productive and inspirational. We adored the hosts, Leonor, Veronica and Elsa and her husband. I finished twenty-five pages of most excellent prose, for a total of seventy-five pages on my novel. You have found paradise. Again, thank you for your part in my journey.

S. Vanegas, Miami Beach, FL. - Thank you for opening your home and sharing your experience.  I feel more on track with my work.  I think this place is beautiful! 

L. Weissler, Juneau, AK. - I just returned from my trip and wanted you to know that it was a wonderful and productive week.  I finished rewriting five chapters, a chapter a day.  Quite remarkable.  Barbara is an excellent host for an aspiring writer.  she offered support and encouragement at just the right times, as well as excellent meals.  I hope more writers discover this bit of paradise.

J. Perolini, Carmel, CA. - I arrived at the Casa 6:00 p.m. just as the sun sunk into Zihuatanejo Bay. I was overcome with the elegance of the Casa; the photos on the web site cannot do justice to the setting. The people, the services in Playa La Ropa and La Madera, the Zihuatanejo shops and Leonor's team were all excellent. 

Nova Alexander, St. Lucia, Caribbean. - What a simply magical place you have here.  Coming from, and living in the Caribbean, I never thought I'd find anything as serene, beautiful and quiet.  My stay here, has been a delight and my spirit remains.  I'll be back!

M. Moran, San Antonio, TX. - Wonderful experience! In two weeks' time I was able to write 25,000 words - and to hike and to play golf and to explore at the same time.  You were gracious host who made me feel comfortable.  Two thumbs up! 

S. Parolini, Colorado Springs, CO. - I came to the retreat to formulate an idea for a novel - little did I know the setting here would be the inspiration for the book.  Real life eats up all the "extra" time I'd like to use to write.  This week away has given me momentum to carry back into that life so I'll make time for writing.  The book has taken on a life of its own.

J. Hamland, San Francisco, CA.  - I want to thank you for providing with such a lovely and tranquil setting in which to do my work.  I so appreciated the time you took with me last night to fix my synopsis.  It pained me greatly to leave the snow and peace - and your lovely, gracious hospitality - behind, but got to go back.

N. Towasser, New York, NY.  - I can't get over how beautiful it all is, especially the trees.  Micheline was a wonderful and attentive host.  Frankly, I can't think of a better place to come and chill out and write.  I'll be back!

M. Schultz, MN - I can't get over how beautiful it all is, especially the trees.  Micheline was a wonderful and attentive host.  Frankly, I can't think of a better place to come and chill out and write.  I'll be back!

H. Fields, New York, NY.  - Thank you so much for the wonderful week at the Retreat.  I really feel revitalized!

P. Criscito, Colorado Springs, CO.   - Thank you so much for your gracious hospitality during my stay.  Everything was terrific! Curling up in the great room was the ultimate luxury as I was researching my latest book for Barron's.  I never get that kind of peace and quiet in my office, and the atmosphere was totally conducive to creativity. 

B. Malouf, Dallas, TX - I highly recommend the clinic Making a good script great. Linda's personal attention to my writing and the insight into where I needed to go with the plot simply amazed me. Her style is warm, thoughtful and appropriately direct, and I felt hope when I left Colorado... it was like Linda had a crystal ball focused directly on my script's future... The other writers in my group would agree... there is something magical about this experience.

J. Hillebrand, Rochester, MI - Thanks again for everything, Making a good script great clinic was such an amazing weekend for me.  I felt that it was, indeed, a "turning point."  Thank you for inspiring me in so many ways.  You really made me realize what it means to live life on purpose and to live a life that counts. I have a personal "collection" in my mind of powerful women who have inspired me along my journey, and I'm glad to say that I've found another one in you!  Thank you, thank you, thank you...for being faithful to your calling, your giftings, your God, yourself.

M. Schecter, South Orange, NJ - Thank you so much. What a perfect combination of retreat and inspiration! I really needed an escape from the daily huburb where I could unraved problems with my script - work them through and discuss. Micheline - your hospitality make the stay relaxing & enjoyable and Tony, you know what the right question to ask and how far to push to get a writer to dig deeper and solve the problem. This was exactly what I needed and so much appreciated - what a valuable service you offer. 

E. Lowe McCoy, Gainesville, FL - The retreat/screenwriting workshop has been a treasured respite from our too busy lives.  The opportunity to write and to talk about writing in this beautiful place and in good fellowships has renewed my spirit.  And what a thrill to see  Motoboy, Linda & Roberto spring to life under Tony's wise & wry tutelage.  Thanks & best to you.

M. Hentges, Montréal, Québec.  - Many thanks for the wonderful refuge... and special thanks for providing a flashlight to illuminate the path of rewrites ahead.  

G. Roitman, Montréal, Québec - A life altering experience crammed into two incredible days. Thank you.

N. McGill, Ottawa, Ontario - And now the real writing begins. Thanks for making the path...

D. Hart-Jaimet, Ottawa, Québec - I will go home, pick up my pen - grateful that I can write again.

C. Reid, Richmond, RI - Your hospitality and guidance embraced me during a full, rich weekend at your retreat. My first effort is to polish "Fat Chance" and get it published. I hope, as well, to write lots more and return to your retreat again.

M. H. Leta, Marshfield Hills, Ma - My stay's too short. Now that I'm filled with all this inspiration, I have to go back to my crazy life. But... I will have something to chew on & fuel my writing when the kids go back to school.

D. Scott, New York, NY - You helped brake loose the crucial pieces of the puzzle, shape them and put them together. I now know where the book is going. 

C. Shilakowsky, Waltham, MA - You made so much perfectly clear - the main thing is to "write the screenplay" - write it well - imitate or not - your work will be unique "if it is good!"  That's what I aspire to.  I like your no-nonsense truths and your benevolent style of delivering critique!  What a treasure you are - as is Micheline and her grace & hospitality.

J. McCann, Tampa, FL - I spent a "big" birthday at this retreat.  It was well spent.  I watched my writing improve in the course of a weekend!  Tony was gentle & wise - on target, helpful, and a great window into a world that I knew so little about.  Daunting but motivating, great learning, great fun!

A. Sirlin, Toronto, Ontario - I enjoyed the beautiful garden and delicious breakfasts.  Learned a tremendous amount about screenwriting and feel inspired to complete my project.

S. Perman, San Francisco, CA - A really fine place to learn craft and other things... like life experiences that add to the richness of  writing anything.  The Best!

L. Kiecksee, Nashville, TN. - Thanks for a week of therapy! I learned a lot and will go home with a new point of view towards my project!

B. Paul-Émile, Boston, MA. - This workshop offered the right kind of support for writers needing to improve their work.  The review of manuscripts was insightful, and sensitive - hence beneficial.  I enjoyed the fellowship of the participants and feel that I profited from attending.

B. Kaplan, New York, NY. - This workshop advanced my book by several generations.

J. Montes, New York, NY. - Thanks for being crazy cool.  Your candor and good heart made me very comfortable.  Your insights and ability to break things down have transformed my own ability to edit... and write.  I am forever indebted.

J. Gredig, UK. - Thank you for helping put the book on track.  I'm leaving with a much clearer understanding of what I want to say and how I want to say it.  Thanks for keeping me constantly fed, and for creating such a relaxing atmosphere to work in.

M. Callon, Montréal, Québec. - You're the best... Thanks for an absolutely enlightening week and many laughs.  Looking forward to taking the next step of A Quiet Rage with you.

T. Surbeck, Brush, CO. - Your guidance last year was profoundly valuable.  Most helpful was your telling me I was going to make a good writer and encouraging me to trust the reader.  Wish I could have gotten right on it and churned out a beautiful revision as soon as I got home.  Wasn't possible, but I stuck it out and thanks to your advice, I have created something much improved.  Hopefully!  I may need another dose of perspective.

L. Staengel, Solihull, UK. - Thank you for your help in pursuit of my dream.  You are a great teacher and even more, a true friend.  Next time we meet, my book will be that much further along.  I now have more tools to assist in my writing. Zihuatanejo, Mexico.

H. Fox, Princeton, NJ. - What a wonderful introduction to México and to screenplay writing.  A double treat.  Whoever said writing isn't fun?  Thank you for your guidance, your feedback, and confidence in my venture into the crazy, exciting world of filmmaking.

D. Lanson, Gloucester, MA. - Well, this is a strange process, but in the end I feel like I really profited from it.  Kind of a moveable feast - sun, food, beach, writing.  Did I suffer enough?  'Till the next time.  Thanks to you and Zihuatanejo.

Doug & Denise, Paulden, AZ. - We came bringing life's experiences and observations.  We left understanding much more about how to integrate them into a novel.  You rewarded us and scolded us and made us think.  The hallmarks of a fine teacher. Zihuatanejo, Mexico.

G. Triplette, Winstom-Salem, NC. - A week far above my expectations and the beginning of something wonderful... I hope...          Zihuatanejo, Mexico.

G. Beckman, Berkeley, CA. - I expected the usual workshoppy warm & fuzzies, what I got was a big dose of reality. Thanks, I needed  that!