Characters Reloaded – November 2008

NOVEMBER 1 & 2, 2008. more…

fall leaf on goldenrod A fabulous November weekend at the Kempenfeldt Conference Centre launched the first residential Writescape lakeside retreat. Surrounded by trees festooned in fall colours, participants hunkered down for a full and rich workshop experience. Writers enriched the imagined lives of their characters and surprised themselves by their own level of creativity.

Mardon Lodge Kempenfeldt While there was plenty of focus and concentration, participants still found time to stroll the extensive grounds and shoreline, dip in the whirlpool, relax by the magnificent fireplace, and enjoy wonderful meals. A true immersion in the senses, this retreat inspired new writing and new ideas about developing characters that readers believe in.

Talk about exceeding expectations! This was the most value-packed weekend I’ve ever had. You even found a way to combat post-workshop sag by giving us more ideas to try at home….Please, sir, I want some more!

- Heather O’Connor

Kempenfeldt 2 Nice full circle quality of the activities. Really satisfying to see it all laid out, just how far our characters have come. Thank you.
- Luanne Smith

I found the entire day thought-provoking and inspiring.
- James Dewar

I love the opportunities to write spontaneously – I find the creative energy in the room really inspires me to “think outside the box” and attempt writing I wouldn’t normally do.
- Judy Hampson

Dorothea and Ruth take the lead Top notch! I love you guys!
- Graham Ducker

Every word was useful. Compressed but never rushed – perfect! Switching it up with three presenters was a smart idea.
- Heather O’Connor

Ruth, Gwynn and Dorothea are marvellous presenters each one of them. However, working together, their abilities complement and amplify each other’s skills, creating a rich buffet for participants to dine on! Not only did the presenters do a lovely job of presenting their individual specialities, but during the sharing, their ‘presence’ and feedback offered immediate insights into new possibilities.What a fantastic experience. Thank you!
- Sue Reynolds

Work for now, more for later – what a gift! I loved the folios and the goody bags. You sure know how to pamper a girl. Beautiful location, places to walk, great food, gorgeous sunroom, free refreshments on tap, fireplace and cushy chairs – I’m in heaven. You even got the weather right!
- Heather O’Connor