The retreat was loosely structured with seminar sessions and five minute readings. There was no pressure to attend; if people preferred to work on their writing instead, that was fine too. I loved this approach and found it liberating to step in and out of my room, away from the manuscript or back to quiet thinking, as I felt the need. I got a lot of work done, revising the manuscript as it stands before starting on the final chapters. I edited out 7,000 words. Anything that didn't move the plot along was out! It was great to step back from the writing and read objectively: are you doing what you're meant to be doing. If not, why not, and what can be done?
In the evenings would be friendly socials. Quizzes, sharing sessions, games of French cricket, Pimms. In the afternoons I would write, nap, write. I can't remember the last time I had room in my day for an afternoon nap.
I have to mention the puddings. The Urban Writers Retreat proved that cake is a big part of writing. Charney showed me that puddings count, too. Jam tart, bakewell tart, chocolate roulade... You name it, I ate it.
I felt privileged to be around so many established children's authors with a wealth of experience to share. Memories of this week will stay with me for a long time to come. That Oxfordshire sunshine has scored itself onto my heart. The swifts darting in the dusk as we laughed on the lawn will never be forgotten. A small, modest space where I sat on a bed and worked in silence will be a room of my own for ever. Charney wasn't just four days away. It was a gift for life.
Thank you, SAS.
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