Reflecting on Our Transformative Half-Day Writers Retreat

Two weeks ago, on Saturday, May 3rd, I had the honor of hosting the Authors Guild Half-Day Writers Retreat at the beautiful Colombiere Conference and Retreat Center in Clarkston, Michigan. The event, co-led with the incredible Gethen Christine Morris, was as transformative as I had envisioned. Life has been busy since then—celebrating my 20th anniversary, flying to Vegas for a wedding that ended up being postponed, and preparing for the release of my 21st book—but today I’m pausing to reflect on the power of that gathering and the inspiration it brought to everyone involved.

The retreat was a reminder of the importance of renewing ourselves, reconnecting with our creative goals, and using spiritual tools to move forward in life and art. What made this event even more special was a touching announcement by Melanie Singer, who attended one of my earlier Path of Consciousness spiritual retreats (also at Colombiere). She shared that, thanks to the teachings she experienced, she recently published her children’s book, Martina’s Muy Bad Day (HarperCollins, February 4, 2025). Hearing how Melanie’s journey came full circle was a deeply gratifying moment, reaffirming why events like these are so meaningful.

The retreat was a beautifully structured journey to help writers reconnect with their creativity, refuel their spirit, and dedicate focused time to their craft. It unfolded beautifully, beginning with yoga and meditation led by Gethen Christine Morris, whose shamanic practice brought clarity and inspiration. I followed with a writing workshop, helping participants overcome creative blocks and breathe life into their stories. Over lunch, connections deepened in a warm, supportive atmosphere, with ideas and encouragement flowing freely. A serene Walk & Write session in Colombiere’s natural beauty rounded out the day, leaving everyone inspired, recharged, and ready to create.

This retreat served as a powerful reminder of the importance of nurturing both our spiritual and creative selves. If you couldn’t join us, there’s another incredible opportunity on the horizon: the Spring Gathering 2025 at the Colombiere Conference and Retreat Center.

Happening from May 29 – June 1, 2025, this event is open to everyone and follows a “Free or Pay What You Can” model. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in shamanic teachings, meditations, and deep self-exploration. Whether you’re seeking renewal, inspiration, or clarity, you’ll leave feeling refreshed, empowered, and ready to embrace your journey ahead.

For details, visit the event page: Spring Gathering 2025 in Michigan.

As writers, creatives, and just as human beings, we often get caught up in deadlines, expectations, and the noise of everyday life. Events like these remind us to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the deeper purpose behind our work. Whether it’s through yoga, writing, or simply walking in nature, there’s always a way to rekindle the creative spark within.

To those who joined us on May 3rd, thank you for bringing your energy and openness. To those considering joining us in the future, don’t wait—give yourself the gift of time to write, reflect, and recharge.

Looking forward to writing and growing together!

Love & Blessings,

Weam

Reignite Your Writing Spirit at the Half-Day AG Writing Retreat

On Saturday, May 3rd, I’ll return to the Colombiere Conference and Retreat Center—a place that has been a sanctuary for me and so many others over the years. It’s where I once led a yearly Path of Consciousness Spiritual and Writing Retreat, a space where creativity and spirituality intertwined, offering clarity and healing. During the pandemic, like many of us, I had to pause those gatherings.

Now, I’m returning as an Authors Guild ambassador, hosting a half-day writing workshop, and I couldn’t be more excited to step back into this serene setting. I’ll be teaming up with Gethen Christine Morris, a fellow graduate of Lynn Andrews’ School of Sacred Arts, to create a meaningful and inspiring experience for writers.

Over the years, I’ve learned that writing is far more than the act of putting words on a page. It’s a journey inward, a dialogue with the self, and a way to make sense of the world around us. Writing has been my constant companion, something I’ve leaned on in solitude as I’ve navigated life’s challenges and joys—such as being hospitalized for COVID, losing my mother, witnessing my children grow into themselves, filming my first feature narrative, Pomegranate, and experiencing the ups and downs of marriage and other close relationships with family and friends. Each of these moments, whether filled with pain or celebration, has found its way onto the page, helping me process, heal, and grow.

When writers gather, something beautiful happens. We share not only our techniques and stories but also our fears, our doubts, and our triumphs. There’s a strength and energy that forms in the company of like-minded souls, an understanding that goes beyond words. Writing can be isolating, but it doesn’t have to be lonely. In community, we find encouragement, inspiration, and the gentle nudge we sometimes need to keep going.

I’ve also learned that creativity flourishes when we give it space—when we take time for reflection, movement, and stillness. Some of my best ideas have come not while I was staring at a screen but while walking in nature, journaling after a yoga session, or simply sitting quietly. This is what makes gatherings like this retreat so special. They remind us to slow down, to breathe, and to let the creative process unfold naturally.

At the retreat, we’ll spend time writing, reflecting, and being present with ourselves and each other. Gethen will lead us in yoga and meditation, and I’ll guide a writing workshop to help participants tap into their stories and creative potential. There will also be time to walk the beautiful grounds of Colombiere, to connect with nature, and to let inspiration flow.

But more than the schedule, what I hope this retreat offers is an opportunity to pause and reconnect—with your creativity, your goals, and your inner voice. Writing is a powerful tool for transformation, not just for the stories we tell but for the lives we live.

If you’re feeling stuck, uninspired, or simply in need of a reset, I encourage you to make time for yourself. Whether it’s through this retreat or another way, give yourself the gift of stepping away from the busyness of life to reflect, recharge, and rediscover your creative spirit.

I’m looking forward to this retreat—not just as a leader but as someone who loves learning and growing alongside others. Every time I work with a group of writers, I walk away feeling inspired by their courage, creativity, and commitment to their craft.

If this resonates with you, I’d love for you to join us. Let’s come together to reignite our creative spirits and continue this incredible journey of writing and self-discovery.

Click here to learn more!

Click here to RSVP. There’s no fee, but space is limited, and registration is required.